How to Cut Laminate Countertops Like a Pro
Follow these eight steps to cut laminate countertops like a pro
If you are installing new laminate countertops, it is important to know how to cut them properly to minimize damage and to make the process go as smoothly as possible. With a few tools and the right techniques, you can cut countertops to size and give your kitchen the upgrade it deserves.
What Are Laminate Countertops?
Laminate countertops are a synthetic work surface manufactured by layering multiple sheets of paper and tightly compressing them together to form a rigid board. The final top layer is an image layer that can mimic the look of other materials like wood, granite, or marble. This inexpensive option was a popular choice between the 1950s and 1970s and is still used when people are seeking kitchen countertop ideas on a budget. Laminate countertops are often called Formica countertops, which refers to a particular common brand of laminate countertops.
How to Cut Laminate Countertops
1. Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Gathering your tools and supplies before beginning the actual cutting process can help make things go more smoothly. Here is what you will need:
Tools:
Circular saw or jigsaw
Saw horses or a workbench
Pencil
Measuring tape
Speed square, T-square, or straightedge
Supplies:
Fine-tooth blades
Masking tape
2. Take Your Measurements
Measure the surface where the countertop will be installed, accounting for any overhang. Measure as accurately as possible and go over it at least twice to ensure that the numbers are correct. Make sure to write the measurements down, so you do not forget.
3. Position Countertops on the Work Surface
Using saw horses or a workbench, position the countertop so you have enough clearance to cut it to size. Clamp in place to make sure it will not shift or move while cutting. If you want to cut the countertops from the backside to minimize damage, you can position them upside down, making sure to mark your cuts accurately so that they fit into place when turned rightside up.
4. Mark Your Cuts Using a Pencil and Masking Tape
Using the measurements you took earlier, mark on the laminate where you need to make cuts. Then take a strip of masking tape and apply it to the line that you will be cutting. (If you cut the countertops upside down, skip this step.) The masking tape is meant to help protect the edge of the laminate from chipping as you cut through it with your saw.
Mark the cut line on the masking tape using a straightedge and a pencil. Make sure the line is straight using a T-square or speed square. You can also clamp a straightedge (a piece of wood works just fine) along the cut line so the baseplate of the saw can run along it and make the most accurate cut possible.
5. Start Cutting
If you are new to cutting laminate countertops and have a scrap piece handy, it may be worth doing a practice cut or two to get the hang of it. When it is time to start cutting the laminate countertop, make sure you are using a fine-tooth blade fitted to either a circular saw or a jigsaw. To begin cutting, position the saw a few inches away from the countertop. Pull the trigger on the saw and allow the blade to get up to full speed before moving it toward the countertop and beginning to cut.
6. Support the Off-Cut End
Before completing the cut, make sure to support the off-cut end, the end that will be discarded, with another work surface; or have a helper hold onto it so it does not rip the corner off the countertop.
7. Continue the Process
Continue this process until all cuts are made. If you have to cut a notch into the laminate countertop, use the saw to cut from the edge to the end point, then remove the saw and start cutting from the next edge until you reach the point where the two cuts meet, making sure to hold the notched piece to keep it from falling.
8. Sand the Edges
Using a medium- to fine-grit sandpaper, sand the edges of the cut laminate countertop until smooth. This will allow them to join more easily and will make the seam less noticeable.
Tips for Cutting a Hole for a Sink or Fixtures
In some cases, you may already have a laminate countertop installed and just need to cut a hole for a sink or new fixtures. Here are a few tips for making it work:
Draw an outline of the sink or fixtures, making sure to account for the lip if there is one. Use masking tape to protect the laminate, as you did in the process detailed above.
For a sink or larger hole, take a thin piece of wood and lay it across where the hole will be so it overlaps the countertop. Attach it with one screw in the center. This will hold the piece that you are cutting in place and prevent it from falling off while you are cutting.
Drill a hole along the line where you will be cutting that is large enough for a jigsaw blade to fit through.
Begin cutting with a fine-tooth, down-cutting jigsaw blade.
Cut around the outline, making sure to stay on the line.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Laminate countertop installation can be done by a homeowner who is an experienced DIYer. Cutting laminate countertops requires certain tools and knowledge of how to use them, so it may not be the best project for someone who is new to DIY projects. If you want to hire a professional, you can check out a laminate countertop installer near you to get quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you notice stains or cracks on your counter, the good news is that you can generally remove stains or learn how to repair laminate countertops yourself. For stains, a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda and a few tablespoons of water left on the stain for about 10 minutes can remove them. For cracks, use a laminate repair or fill kit.
If you need to make curved cuts on your laminate countertop, get out the jigsaw. A jigsaw with a fine blade will allow you to follow curved traced lines. It is important to cut slowly and to let the jigsaw do most of the work with you acting as a guide.
Yes, laminate (or Formica) countertops often come in precut sizes. It is important to measure your space and then do some research, or take the measurements to a local home improvement store to see if you can get the right size. If you do get precut laminate countertops, you may still have to cut holes for the sink and fixtures.