Counter tops are very versatile surfaces that can be used in many different ways. They are a very important part of any kitchen, bathroom or working area and those who have a love for doing things themselves, will find this project too good to resist. The satisfaction that comes from seeing your own handiwork before you and being able to use it for one or many purposes is unparalleled.

Combining functionality with self-help when choosing countertops

Counter tops can be an efficient work surface or just an aesthetic design statement, depending on what you want them to be. They can be made from a wide range of materials, some of which are plastic laminates- Formica and Wilson art are well known. These are a popular choice for kitchen as well as bath counters. Plastic laminates come in a variety of color choices and finish to suit all discerning tastes and the best feature of these counter tops is that they are durable and easy to clean, bringing down the after care for the homeowner. A combination of good looks and easy maintenance with affordable pricing is what is advisable for those buying pre-fabricated kits for counter tops. Laminates can wear out over time and tastes can change, so do put in a little thought before settling on the color and design for the counter top. Doing it yourself would be an economical option and if you have the patience and basic skills, you can undertake this project and treat yourself to a brand new counter top in a matter of a few hours.

Guidelines for doing your counter top yourself

An easy option is to buy pre-made tops from a local home center, which typically come in 2-foot increments, ranging from 4 to 12 feet long, with a standard curved or beveled-front edge. Pre-mitered counters are also available; a special adhesive is used at the joint, and connector bolts that fit into pre-cut slots under the counter draw the two pieces together and secure the joint. Make your cutouts using a jigsaw that is fit with a down-cutting blade (the teeth are set to cut on the downward motion of the blade to avoid chipping out the laminate). A belt sander is can be used to sand and scribe the back edges of the counter to the wall and the joint covered with wood, laminate or tile splash. These kits come with comprehensive instructions and are readily available at larger home centers and lumberyards, either in stock or by special order.

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