How to remove countertop?


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Old 10-09-05, 04:55 PM
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How to remove countertop?

How is a laminate countertop attached to the base cabinet? We have painted the cabinet and want to put a new countertop on it. The backsplashes were just glued to the wall, but I can't see how the countertop is attached to the cabinet to remove it.
 
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Old 10-09-05, 05:24 PM
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nittany77,

It may had been glued as well. Check inside the cabinet, look directly up and see if it has angle braces in the corners of the cabinet.

You may see screws or at least remnants of adhesive. If there are screws - remove them.

If you cannot see screws, use a flat bar and CAREFULLY pry the top off by pulling up. Please do not exert to much pressure as to damage cabinet top edge.

Installation of a new top can be done with adhesive.

Hope this helps!
 
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Old 10-09-05, 06:54 PM
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I looked around pretty good and didn't see any screws. I will try a little gentle prying and see if it loosens up at all.

Thanks,
Brian
 
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Old 10-09-05, 06:58 PM
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Brian,

More than likely glued down.

With laminate tops, there is that lip that gets in the way to use possible a hacksaw blade to help cut through the adhesive. Just be gentle.

Good Luck!
 
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Old 10-10-05, 07:06 PM
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Ok, it turns out there were a couple square drive screws. It came off pretty easy, now for the next question.

Is it possible, or wise, to install new formica over existing? Are there isssues with adhesion?

Thanks
 
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Old 10-10-05, 07:11 PM
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nittany77,

You got the entire countertop off - why are we asking about placing formica over the countertop?

It is best to purchase new - If this is postformed - round corners - the answer is no.

If it is a square faced , it's possible but again - what is involved takes time and in most cases, not worth it.

Hope this helps!
 
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Old 10-11-05, 05:49 AM
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Doug,

It is square faced, we are probably going to have a new top built but I was wondering if re-facing this top is an option. It will take 3 weeks to get a new one built, so I thought I check out the alternatives.

Thanks,
Brian
 
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Old 10-11-05, 06:17 AM
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Brian,

So you removed it without having the replacement on hand? 3 weeks is about right for receiving the new one.

Good Luck!
 
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Old 10-11-05, 06:23 AM
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Yea, I know, not the best way to do things, I just wanted to make sure I could get it off without ruining the cabinet. Actually, I just set it back in place for now, so it is useable.
 
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Old 10-11-05, 06:27 AM
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Brian,

No problem. It's not the first time that anyone has done that. I have too.

Well, glad you were able to figure out how to take it off.

Have a great day!
 
 

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