Standard Kitchen Counter Top Construction

Laminate Choices

• Laminate is a thin, plastic-type material available in a multitude of colors, textures and patterns. There are even laminate sheets available that resemble wood, granite or marble, giving you an expensive look without the big expense. Laminate comes in standard-sized 4-by-8-foot sheets, but larger sheets are available for bigger projects.

Tools and Materials

• A measuring tape is mandatory for determining the correct size of your new counter top. A circular saw makes quick work of cutting the framework material for the counter, and clamps and wood glue are useful when constructing the raised perimeter of the counter top framework. A framing square keeps angles true, and doubles as a straight edge. A sharp utility knife can be used to cut the laminate to size, although the circular saw can also perform this task. Contact cement manufactured especially for bonding laminate to the wood framework is needed, as well as a laminate roller to help adhere the material to the framework without air bubbles.

Framework

• The framework of a standard laminate counter top consists mainly of a piece of 3/4-inch-thick particle board, plywood or medium-density fiberboard cut into the shape of the desired counter top. The edges are reinforced and made thicker by adding strips of the same wood-based material glued in place. This gives the appearance that the counter top is 1 1/2 inches thick.

Applying the Laminate

• Once the framework is constructed, the laminate is cut roughly to size and adhered to the counter top with contact cement. The problem with contact cement is that once two surfaces that have been coated with cement make contact with each other, it will not let go. For this reason, it's advisable to place strips of wood or dowels across the counter top before the adhesive-covered laminate is laid on it. This will allow you to slide the laminate sheet into the desired position before the adhesive takes hold. When the wood strips or dowels are pulled out, the sheets falls into place. A laminate roller makes quick work of forcing any air bubbles out so the laminate material will lay nice and flat. The edges of the counter top are covered in laminate in the same fashion.