• Laminate countertops are affordable and versatile.Apple bowl image by bluefern from Fotolia.com
  
  Laminate countertops are one of the most versatile and cost effective materials for kitchen work surfaces. Laminate may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and a little know how, it is a perfect option for the budget conscious do-it-yourselfer.
  
  

Cutting Tools

• Cutting laminate and plywood substrate for countertop construction is a fairly straightforward process. It can be done with common tools that many home owners already have on hand.
  
  For small projects, such as bathroom vanities, use a utility knife to score the back of the laminate along the line you want cut. Score the laminate firmly three or four times and carefully flex the laminate until it breaks along the scored line.
  
  For larger jobs with multiple cuts, use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade. Some carpenter's prefer to install the blade backward to help prevent chipping. Turn it back around before cutting the plywood for your countertop.
  
  A table saw is the quickest way to cut large pieces of laminate or multiple smaller pieces. Use a sharp, fine-tooth blade set low to the table to get the cleanest cut. Keep the laminate pressed down to the table to avoid kick backs.
  
  

Gluing Tools

• Once you've cut the laminate and plywood, use contact cement to attach the laminate to the plywood base. Roll or brush a good coat on both pieces and allow time to dry before pressing it down.
  
  You will need disposable rollers or brushes to apply the glue. Use a small 3-inch roller with medium nap for best results.
  
  A heat gun cuts drying time in half and heating the glue can help make a tighter bond. These are available in the paint departments of most hardware stores.
  
  Wooden dowels can help assist with placing the laminate. Lay them on the countertop with the laminate on top, glue side down. Remove dowels starting at one end and press the laminate down onto the countertop to bind the glue.
  
  To press the laminate in place you'll need a rubber mallet and a J-roller, or rolling pin. Tap the edges of the laminate down firmly, then roll across it to remove bubbles and adhere the laminate evenly.
  
  

Trimming Tools

• A flush-cut router bit with a bearing is the choice tool for making the initial trim cut to remove the overhang around the edge of the plywood. Lubricate the bearing with wax for best results.
  
  After edge banding has been glued and pressed in place with a mallet and roller, the trim router can make the fine cuts needed to get a clean joint. Use a bit with a slight roll over for a nice smooth finish.
  
  A good mill bastard file and a lot of practice is the only tool that can put the finishing touch on edge seams in your laminate. Run the file at a 45-degree angle tilted slightly to the right, from right to left to shave down the last lip and leave a clean, smooth edge.