Renovation can be a complicated process of planning, budget control, and resource preparation. Usually, you will hire a professional kitcehn remodeling service to deal with the complicated bits. However, if you are doing it yourself, then you should know how to cut laminate kitchen countertops.
What’s more, if you don’t have any complicated tools or workshop skills, you just need to read along and learn how to do it:
Take Hold Necessary Tools
Typically, you need a sort of electrical saw or a handsaw, ideally a circular saw for straight cuts and general shaps. You can also use jigsaw for curves, cutouts, and corners. Lastly, a sander is used to clean and smooth out edges. Here are the required tools in more detail:
- A thin 40-tooth TPI carbide blade is attached to an electric circular saw.
- An electric jigsaw with a laminate blade with 20 teeth.
- For sink cutouts, use an electric drill with a 3/8-inch bit.
- Sandpaper blocks, a flat metal file, or an electric belt sander.
Step-By-Step On How To Cut A Laminated Countertop
Even though cutting shouldn’t be that complicated of a process, there is always a risk of injury and waste of material. Due to that, here is a step-by-step on how to cut a laminated countertop effectively.
- Cut the laminate from underneath to reduce the chance of the decorative surface chipping. You can use a regular saw blade, but make sure it has at least 40 teeth per inch and is in good shape.
- Using a pencil and a straight edge, mark the desired cut line.
- The laminate countertop should be turned so that the decorative side is facing down. On the reverse side of the material, continue the cut line.
- Cover the pencil line with masking tape once more on the decorative side.
- Make sure the decorative side of the laminate countertop is facing down once more.
- The cut depth of the circular saw should be adjusted to the material’s thickness plus 1/8 inch. When you do this, make sure the saw is unplugged.
- Place the shoe of the saw’s front end on the material’s edge. Initially, confirm that the saw is plugged in.
- If the saw is variable-speed, turn it on and then reduce the speed.
- Cut the laminate slowly all the way to the end of the line.
- To prevent tearing, hold the side of the countertop that has been cut. Holding the material is not necessary if it is fully supported.
For A Smoother Finish
Sandpaper or a metal file can be used to smooth the jagged edges of the cut laminate. To get rid of burrs, run sandpaper lengthwise along the cut edge of the laminate, decorative side up. Don’t scratch the ornamental surface. When using a metal file, run it backward and perpendicular to the cut line. If you hold the file vertically, the laminate surface may loosen and be chipped.
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Remodeling is essential to ensure that every component of the renovation blends together and complies with local building codes. Tennessee Designs Kitchen & Bath Remodelers offers exceptional kitchen countertop and renovation services in Richmond. You will always save time and money by hiring us. Make an appointment with Tennessee Designs Kitchen & Bath Remodelers today!
