How to Install New Laminate Countertops in 8 Simple Steps

Before starting this project, you’ll need to do a few things to prepare the kitchen for laminate countertop installation:

• Turn off the water supply and disconnect the drain lines.

• Turn off the electrical supply to the kitchen at the circuit breaker.

• Remove the sink and appliances, like the range and garbage disposal.

Proper preparation is essential for any DIY project, including laminate countertop installation. Failure to prepare the area can lead to problems down the road.

Next, you’ll need to remove the existing countertops and backsplash to make way for their replacement. Remove a laminate backsplash by cutting the caulking between the wall and the backsplash, then removing it from the wall. If you have tile on the wall, you’ll need to remove that as well.

To remove the countertop, you must first unscrew it from the cabinets. Laminate countertops are usually secured to the cabinets using screws underneath the countertop. There may also be glue or caulk holding the countertops in place. Check that any appliances, like the dishwasher, aren’t also connected to the countertop. You should then be able to slide the countertop off the cabinets in one piece. Countertops can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, so it’s best to have a helper for this step.

Once the old countertop is off, use it as a template to measure and cut the new countertop. Alternatively, you can use a premade template or make your own template. Apply masking tape along the line that will be cut, and use a pencil to mark the exact cutting line. Secure the countertops before cutting using clamps on a stable surface. Cut the laminate countertop carefully using a fine-tooth handsaw, then file the edges in one direction to smooth them out.

You’ll also make any cutouts at this stage, like cutouts for a sink or range top. Turn the countertop upside down and place the sink on the underside, then use a pencil to draw around the sink’s rim. Cut just inside the line (around ¼-inch to ⅜-inch) using a jigsaw. Then, file the edges and apply heat-conducing aluminum tape around the edge of the cutout for a range top. Use your circular saw to cut the backsplash pieces to size.

Place the countertop on the cabinets to ensure that the fit is correct. Adjust as needed, dry-fitting after each adjustment to ensure proper fit. You want to check that the countertop and backsplash fit snugly against the wall and that there are no gaps.

If you notice gaps between the backsplash and the wall, use a scriber compass to mark the edge and a belt sander to sand to the line. Recheck the fit and make adjustments as needed. Once you’ve completed this step, the countertop should contour to the wall without any remaining gaps.

Once you’re confident that the countertops are the correct size and fit, install and secure them to the cabinets. Place the countertop on the cabinets, then screw it in place from inside the cabinet using 1 ¼-inch screws (check the depth of the countertops first to ensure the screws won’t come through the top).

If your countertop is L-shaped or U-shaped, you’ll need to join the miters when installing them. Apply sealant to the mitered edges, then tighten the miter bolts to ensure the countertop joints are snug. Clean up any sealant from the top of the countertop.

Apply adhesive to the back of the laminate backsplash, then apply silicone to the counter's edge where it meets the wall. Carefully place the backsplash and use braces to hold it in place while the adhesive cures.

You’ll also need to apply end caps at the countertop edges. If you purchase pre-glued ones, you can iron them onto the countertop ends using your household iron. If your end caps are not pre-glued, you’ll need to apply adhesive, then install the end caps and roll the laminate with a J-roller to bond them to the countertop.

Slide the sink into the cutout and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it on the countertop. Seal it using sealant or silicone around the edges and back of the sink. Failure to properly seal a sink can lead to water damage to the countertop.

Clean off any excess glue or sealant and replace any tiles you removed to install the countertops. Wipe down the countertop thoroughly to remove any construction dust or debris. Replace the appliances and check that everything works properly. Finally, enjoy your new countertop!