How Hard Is It to Put in a Laminate Sheet?

Sanding

• Any surface over which you plan on installing laminate must be sanded down. This applies for wood surfaces and even previously installed laminate. Sanding gives the surface a rough texture, which makes it easier for the contact cement to form a bond between the laminate sheet and the surface. For this application, avoid using powered sanders, which may form grooves and unevenness that will make it difficult for the Formica to bond. Work by hand with medium-grade sandpaper.

Measuring and Cutting

• When measuring laminate, you always want to give yourself a little extra room so you can trim the sheet after it's been installed -- don't try to cut the laminate exactly to size. Give yourself an extra inch per dimension and mark the laminate with a straight edge. Place masking tape over the markings to prevent chipping, then cut the laminate with a circular saw. Alternatively, you may use a hand saw or utility knife fitted with a laminate blade.

Applying Adhesive

• Contact cement is the type of adhesive used for installing laminate. As its name implies, it forms a tight bond upon contact with another surface, so use caution when handling it. Apply the contact cement with a paintbrush. Spread the adhesive in a thin, even layer on both surfaces. The adhesive will give the surface a glossy sheen -- use this to ensure that you've completely covered both surfaces, both the back of the laminate and the prepared surface.

Installing the Laminate

• Once the adhesive is applied, work with a team to install the laminate on the prepared surface. Although you won't necessarily have to line up the edges of the laminate with the prepared surface, you may want to ensure that the pattern on the laminate is straight, particularly if it's geometric. Once the laminate is on the prepared surface, roll out any air bubbles with a laminate roller to ensure full contact and a tight seal. Trim the excess with a router fitted with a laminate cutter.