How To Cut Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are durable, stain-resistant, and easy to install. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns, giving you endless design options. If you want to add some style to your home, consider installing a laminate countertop.
You can use a variety of tools to cut laminate countertops, but the easiest and most common method is to use a utility knife. This is a good option because it allows you to get close to the edge of the countertop. However, if you have a lot of experience with power tools, you can use one of those as well.
Still, if you are currently in the process of cutting down your laminate countertop, you might be a little confused about how to do it correctly. This is where we come in to help you out.
In this article, we are going to be talking you through the easiest way to cut your laminate countertop to professional quality. Just read on!
What Is A Laminate Countertop?
A laminate countertop is made from layers of wood that are glued together. It’s a very popular choice for homeowners who prefer the durability of hardwood but don’t like the high cost.
Why Should You Install Laminate Countertops?
Installing laminate countertops is an inexpensive way to update the appearance of your kitchen or bathroom. You can choose from a wide range of designs and styles. These countertops are easy to maintain and won’t require any special care.
The only issue is that some people can find it difficult to correctly cut their laminate countertops to size, which brings us to our next section!
How To Cut Laminate Countertop: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
First things first, you're going to want to start by removing any tape from around the edges of the countertop if you haven't already taken it out of its packaging. You may need to remove a few layers of tape before getting to the actual laminate.
Step 2
Next, place the countertop on a flat surface. Make sure that there is at least 1/4 inch of space between the countertop and the wall behind it. This will allow you to easily move the countertop around while you are cutting it down to the desired size.
Step 3
After you have done this, flip over the countertop so that it's face down. Place a piece of cardboard underneath where you will be cutting.
Step 4
Once you have carried out all of the above steps, you will then be ready to begin cutting your laminate countertop until it is cut down to your desired size.
To do this, you will need to take your utility knife and start making horizontal cuts about 1/8th of an inch deep all along the edge of the countertop. If you would like, you could take a pencil and mark the spots you will be cutting as visual aids.
Step 5
Continue making these cuts until you reach the end of the countertop. Be careful not to go through the center of the countertop. It should still be attached to the back side. Take your time as you cut the laminate countertop so that you do not make any mistakes.
Step 6
Once you've made all of your cuts, flip the countertop over again and make vertical cuts through the middle of each section. These cuts should be about 1/16th of an inch deep and align with the area of your kitchen where you are going to be installing your laminate countertop.
Step 7
Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the other side of the countertop. After you've finished both sides, flip the countertop back over and trim off the excess material.
It's important that you make sure to cut away any excess material that you can visibly see, otherwise you might find that you struggle to install it after you are done cutting it.
Step 8
After you have trimmed all of the excess material, you can then go ahead and use a straightedge to smooth out any rough spots left on the countertop from where you made the horizontal cuts.
Step 9
Once you have smoothed your countertop, you can then go ahead and remove any remaining pieces of tape that you can see. This will prepare your laminate countertop ready to be installed. When you are ready, you can then go ahead and cut the laminate countertop until it is the right size.
Step 10
Once you have finished cutting your laminate countertop and you are satisfied with the result, we then recommend that you go ahead and proceed to apply a few coats of clear sealer to protect the countertop.
This step is entirely optional, but we do recommend that you consider doing this for professional quality and long-lasting finish.
Step 11
Allow the clear sealer that you have applied over the top of your laminate countertop to fully dry before you begin using it once again as normal.
If you don't wait until the sealer that you have used across the surface of your completed laminate countertop to dry, then you are more than likely going to find that there will be bubbling, peeling, and cracking - not to mention getting sealer residue on your kitchen utensils!
Wrapping Up
There you have it! Laminate countertops are one of the best countertop materials currently available on the market.
Besides being affordable and highly cost-effective, laminate countertops are also extremely durable, long-lasting, and able to withstand general wear and tear longer than other countertop options.
Now that you have made it to the end, we hope that you found this article helpful in learning how to cut laminate countertops - so long as you make sure to follow the instructions we have provided above, you should find yourself able to cut your laminate countertop with no troubles at all. Thank you for reading!