Laminating sheets are an inexpensive composite material that is available in various thickness and virtually unlimited designs from basic plain colors to intricate weaving. These sheets can be an attractive surfacing for cabinet doors and countertops as well as almost any furniture accessory piece. In addition commercial laminate sheets can be produced with a fire rating and used in numerous environments where other surfaces such as hardwood may not be approved or practical in terms of durability.
The process of sizing and applying laminate sheets is not extremely difficult and can be accomplished in a work shop or work area. For laminate countertops the rough counter must first be assembled to the exact size desired with a uniform surface as the sub-top. This assembly will include skirts in any situation where the counter edges will remain exposed once the top is installed.
AC grade plywood is ideal for a sub-top and ¾” x 1-1/2” clear pine is suitable for the countertop skirts. Once the laminate has been selected it then sized to the approximate dimensions of the coutertop plus an additional
1 to 2 inches added to the length and width for trimming. The skirt pieces should be cut to the length and width
plus ½” additional in both directions for trimming.
Begin my applying contact cement to the backside of the laminate top and skirt pieces. Ensure the coating is even and completely covers the back surface of these pieces. Set the pieces aside and allow the cement to dry completely. As this is drying apply a coat of contact cement to counter top plywood and skirts and allow the cement to dry completely.
When re-covering an existing piece of furniture for or other previusly finished piece be sure to sand the surfaces thoroughly and remove any dust before applying the contact cement.
It’s important to note once the dried contact cement surfaces come in contact with each other they will adhere immediately and the laminate cannot be adjusted or squared up. With this in mind the easiest way to align the laminate with the sub-top is to lay small sticks of trim across the sub-top at 12” intervals. This will prevent contact until the sheet is lined up. Make any adjustments and remove the sticks starting at one end. Once the laminate is adhered completely roll it firmly using a rubber roller.
With the edges not yet trimmed, lay up the skirt pieces so they butt tightly to the underside of the top laminate piece and firm up the attachment with the rubber roller. Next use a router with a trimming bit and trim the edges of the top and the skirts. All corners and edges can be detailed using a fine file and any residual contact cement removed with thinner or Acetone.
Laminate is a durable and reliable finish that withstands heat and scuff marks and makes an attractive finish.
