How to Add Laminated Sheets to Countertops

Examine the condition of the particleboard or plywood substrate surface, if you are adding laminate for the first time. Look for any bumps and sand these spots so the surface is even. This will help the laminate to adhere better and prevent air pockets so your countertop will be nice and flat.

Measure the width and length for the top of the counter, and the width and length for the side strips. Record the measurements, then add half-inch to the width and length measurements. For example, if the top surface is 48 inches in width by 30 inches in length, you would write 49 inches for the width and 31 inches for the length. Use the total measurements to determine the quantity of laminate sheets to purchase.

Lay the laminate sheets flat on the floor in a horizontal direction. This will allow you to make cuts as long and wide as possible to give the countertop a seamless look. Use your tape measure to mark the laminate sheets, starting with the side strip pieces, according to your written measurements. Follow by marking the sheets for the main piece, or pieces, for the countertop surface.

Cut the side pieces first with a circular saw, then cut the top surface pieces. Apply contact cement to the back of the side strip piece for the front, and then to the substrate surface by running a bead of the contact cement close to the edges of the side strip pieces and the particleboard substrate or old laminate. Press the new side strip piece firmly into place with your hands. Follow by firmly gliding a 4-inch hard rubber roller over the strips. Repeat this process to attach all side strip pieces. Trim away any excess with a router saw so the side pieces are flush with the edges of the countertop.

Run beads along the perimeter of the back of the main countertop piece, as close to the edge as possible. Then apply a thick bead in an X-shape that runs from the upper left to the lower right corner, and from the upper right corner to the lower left corner.

Turn the top piece over and lower it onto the countertop surface. Center and position the top end right at the edge of the particleboard, and allow the surplus to hang over the bottom and on the sides. Press down firmly on the laminate, working from the center to the left and right sides to make it adhere. Follow with the 4-inch rubber roller, rolling it horizontally across the entire surface and then vertically.

Allow the contact cement to dry according to the instructions on the product label, or for 24 hours, to give the countertop surface adequate time to cure. Trim any excess from the sides and bottom with a router saw. After the countertop surface is dry, sand the side and bottom edges to smooth out any rough spots to complete your laminate countertop addition project.