A kitchen can look more attractive when it has great countertops. For this part, various materials can be used such as a laminate, solid surface and stone tops.

Installing laminate countertops can be carried out on a do it yourself project. The other types of material should be left to professionals as they require special tools and to ensure that their warranty is preserved as well.

Before you start your work, remove fixtures and other accessories attached to the countertop.

Taking measurements is the first standard procedure. Measure the space you want your counter top to cover and add another one inch for the overhang. For long countertops, you will have to cut the laminate to make it fit.

If your countertop is going to run through the sink, trace the hole using kraft paper and then cut out the hole shapes. A jigsaw is ideal for cutting the sink hole but you will need to score the line first with a sharp utility knife and then drill a pilot hole for the jigsaw blade to fit in.

Once you have the measurements, mark the size on your laminate and use masking tape to determine the lines you will be cutting. The purpose of the masking tape is to prevent chipping of the laminate.

The next step is to cut the laminate according to the appropriate measurements you’ve taken. A saber saw will do the job well.

Another option is to order your countertop from a local home improvement store or cabinet shop with your exact specifications. Most shops will already install fasteners that are hidden and they can even preassemble difficult sections including the corner.

At this point, you have to check that the original base cabinets are solid, level and secure. Keep in mind that when a cabinet is out of level, your countertop has the tendency to crack of warp notably at the joints.

On top of the base cabinet’s frame, apply carpenter’s glue before placing your countertop. Align it well and then attach the drywall screws to the countertop’s underside to keep it secure in its place.

If you’re installing very close to the wall, do the same initial steps and when placing the laminate countertop, make sure that you align it close to the wall.

To keep the countertop steady in its position, clamp it and then use a scriber compass to mark the wall’s outline on the laminate. Remove any excess using a belt sander. After that, you should test fit the countertop first to make sure that it fits very well to the wall.

In the area where the countertop meets the wall, don’t forget to apply caulking.

Finally when installing an L-shape countertop, first apply carpenter’s glue on the edges where the two pieces will join together. Once joined, install the countertop on the base cabinet and tighten the fasteners to hold the two parts together. Check the alignment of the corners and make sure that seam is smooth such that it cannot easily be seen. Then let the glue dry once you’re sure the two pieces are well aligned.