If you're planning to install a laminate countertop in your kitchen, you need to take the time to prepare the surface before you can lay down the new countertop. Laminate is a type of plastic material that's bonded to a particle board or other substrate. It's available in sheets or pre-cut counters. While it's possible to install laminate over an existing countertop, it's usually best to start with a clean, level surface.
Here are some tips on how to prepare a countertop for laminate:
1. Make sure the surface is clean and free of any grease, dirt or debris. You can use a mild soap and water solution to wipe down the area. If there are any old countertops or backsplashes attached, remove them now.
2. Use sandpaper to rough up the surface of the countertop. This will help the laminate adhere better. Be sure to vacuum up any dust after sanding.
3. Use painter's tape or another type of masking tape to protect edges and surfaces that you don't want covered in laminate adhesive.
4 . Cut out template pieces from cardboard or poster board that match the shape of your countertop sections. Place these templates on thecountertop so you know where to apply adhesive and where notto apply adhesive . This will also help you determine how muchlaminate material you'll need for each section . (Tip: Add an extra inch or two allthe way around each template piece.)
5 . Follow instructions on your chosen laminate adhesive abouthow long it needs t o set before proceeding t o Step 6 . Some adhesivesmay require overnight drying time . Read all directions carefullybefore beginning your project . C ontact the manufacturer ifyou have questions about proper usage .
6 . Starting in one corner , peel back a small portion of themasking tape and position one edgeof l aminated sheet onto exposedcountertop surface , making surethat it butts up against th e tapededge as closely as possible Gentlypress d own Continue peelingback exposing only smallportions of adhesive at atimewhile gently pressingdown until entire sheetis positioned overentire area