How to Cut Away the Backsplash From a Laminate Counter

A laminate countertop coupled with a laminate backsplash gives your counters a clean, streamlined appeal. If you want to construct a new backsplash using different material, you must first remove the existing laminate backsplash from the wall. Because laminate doesn't stick well to drywall, your backsplash consists of a sheet of laminate glued to a substrate, which is attached to your kitchen's drywall with nails or screws. You don't need to hire a professional to cut away your laminate backsplash. You can complete this aspect of the project yourself.

Caulk softener
Putty knife
Hammer or screwdriver
Protective goggles
Circular saw
Protective gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Spray or smear caulk softener on the caulk surrounding your laminate backsplash. Let the caulk softener soak for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer -- typically one to two hours.
- 2
  Lift the edge of the softened caulk with a putty knife and peel the caulk strip away from the backsplash. Scrape away any remaining pieces of caulk with the putty knife.
- 3
  Examine the edges of your laminate backsplash for any screws or nails holding it in place. Remove them with a screwdriver or hammer claw.
- 4
  Set the saw to a cutting depth of 1/2 inch so you can cut through the backsplash and the substrate its attached to without damaging the drywall behind it.
- 5
  Put on protective goggles. Turn on the circular saw and slowly cut through the backsplash.
- 6
  Put on protective gloves. Grasp the backsplash by the cut and pull each piece away from the wall. Discard the old backsplash.

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