Laminating a countertop can give your laundry room a functional and attractive surface for folding clothes and other tasks. This guide walks you through the process of laminating a countertop, from preparing the base to applying the finishing touches. In the video above, This Old House general contractor, Tom Silva, provides detailed steps to create a laminate countertop for a laundry room.
Understanding Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are a popular choice for laundry rooms. They consist of a particleboard base covered with a plastic laminate layer, which is attached using contact cement. Here are a few reasons why laminate countertops are a great choice for laundry rooms:
- Water-resistant surface
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Affordable compared to other materials
- Available in various colors and patterns
- Resistant to stains and scratches
Before beginning your laminate countertop project, measure your space accurately to determine the size of the countertop. Choose a laminate color and pattern that complements your laundry room decor. Gather all the necessary tools and materials before starting, and make sure you have proper ventilation when working with contact cement.
Preparing the Substrate for a Laminate Countertop
The first step in creating a laminate countertop is preparing the substrate, which serves as the base for the laminate surface. A well-prepared substrate ensures the countertop is sturdy and long-lasting.
Creating the Particleboard Base
Here’s how to build a sturdy base for your countertop:
- Cut two pieces of 3/4-inch-thick particleboard to the desired size of your countertop.
- Apply wood glue to one side of one piece of particleboard.
- Place the second piece on top of the glued surface.
- Nail the two pieces together using finish nails.
- Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding.
These steps create a solid, thick foundation for your countertop that can handle regular use.
Cutting and Applying the Laminate
Once the base is ready, you’ll need to cut and apply the laminate.
Cutting the Laminate
To cut the laminate to size, measure and mark it so it’s slightly larger than the substrate. Use a trim router with a 1/2-inch carbide-tipped straight cutter to rough-cut the laminate. Cut pieces for the front edge, ends (if applicable), and top of the countertop.
Applying Edge Laminate
Begin by applying laminate to the front edge of the countertop. This part is important for providing a finished look and protecting the edges from wear. Do the following:
- Brush contact cement onto the front edge of the particleboard substrate.
- Apply contact cement to the back of a 2-inch-wide laminate strip.
- Allow the cement to dry until it’s no longer tacky to the touch.
- Carefully position the laminate strip on the front edge.
- Use a J-roller to press the laminate firmly into place.
- Trim excess laminate using a trim router.
- Sand the edge flush with the substrate using a belt sander with 100-grit sandpaper.
Applying Top Laminate
To apply the laminate to the top surface, focus on precision and an even adhesion across the entire surface. Follow these steps:
- Spread contact cement on the back of the laminate top and the substrate using a 3-inch paint roller.
- Allow the cement to dry completely.
- Place wood dowels across the cemented substrate to prevent premature sticking.
- Carefully position the laminate on top of the dowels.
- Starting from the center, remove the dowels one at a time while pressing down the laminate.
- Use a J-roller to ensure full contact between the laminate and substrate.
- Trim the overhanging edges with a trim router.
- File the edges smooth to create a professional finish.
The technique of using dowels to position the laminate helps avoid contact mishaps.
Finishing Touches for a Laminate Countertop
After applying the laminate, there are a few final steps to complete your countertop to enhance the appearance and durability of your project.
Smoothing Edges
To achieve a polished look, make sure every edge and surface is carefully finished. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots along the edges, and clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Inspect the edges for any imperfections and touch up as needed using a file or sandpaper.
Sealing Seams
Seams in the countertop can be vulnerable points; sealing them carefully is the key to a long-lasting result. Apply a small bead of color-matched seam filler along the seam. Use a plastic putty knife to smooth the filler and allow it to dry completely. Sand the seam lightly to blend it with the surrounding surface.
Maintaining Your Laminate Countertop
To keep your new laminate countertop looking its best over time, routine care and maintenance are necessary. Here are a few tasks we recommend you do:
- Cleaning regularly with mild soap and water
- Avoiding abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface
- Wiping up spills promptly to prevent staining
- Using trivets or hot pads under hot items to prevent damage
- Avoiding cutting directly on the surface to prevent scratches
Adapting the Tools and Techniques for Laminate Countertops
Different spaces may require specific adaptations to this process. For instance, irregular shapes or existing features in the room might necessitate adjustments in cutting or applying the laminate.
For irregular shapes, carefully measure and template the countertop space before cutting any materials. Use a jigsaw for corners or curves that standard routers can’t handle, and double-check measurements to avoid mistakes that might waste material.
When incorporating features like sinks or fixtures, follow these steps:
- Cut and fit the laminate around these areas carefully, allowing extra material to account for trimming.
- Use a fine file to achieve smooth, clean edges around cutouts.
- Seal edges around fixtures to prevent water seepage.
These steps will help you include existing features in the finished countertop, providing a professional and cohesive look.