How to Install a Laminate Backsplash

Installing a laminate backsplash is a relatively simple task if you are willing to put in the time and effort necessary, and you are willing to pay close attention to detail. The procedure for installing a laminate backsplash is similar to installing a laminate countertop but it requires some additional care. By following these simple steps, you should be able to install your own laminate backsplash with very little trouble.

Assess the Area

The first step in installing a laminate backsplash is to make a careful assessment of the wall space where you will be installing the splashguard. Since the material you will be working with is laminate, you will be adhering to the material to the wall with a strong construction adhesive. It is fully recommended that you avoid attempting to adhere laminate directly to drywall, as the adhesive will most likely not form an effective bond. It is recommended that you install a substrate such as plywood or particleboard before adhering to the laminate.

Measure the Area

Once you have installed the particleboard or plywood to your project area, carefully measure the space where you will be installing your laminate backsplash. Once you are satisfied that your measurements are accurate, lay out your laminate and begin marking off the area where you will need to cut.

Cut The Laminate

For the next step, you will need to cut the laminate you will be using to the proper size. To do this, you have a choice of tools that needs to be made. You will be making cuts with either laminate shears or a utility knife. Each of these tools has its pros and cons, and it is up to you to decide which tool will work better for your purposes.

Laminate shears typically cost more than utility knives and take significantly longer to complete the cutting process. With laminate shears, however, there is very little risk or cracking or errant cuts, and shears tend to cut corners better than utility knives.

In addition to being significantly cheaper, utility knives are much quicker. With a utility knife, you will score the laminate where you want to cut it and then bend the laminate to break it apart. This process can occasionally lead to errant cuts or cracks in the laminate, however.

Apply An Adhesive

Once your laminate has been cut to size and you have checked to make sure the panel you have cut will fit the project area, apply the laminate adhesive to the area where the laminate will be installed. Then, install a layer of laminate adhesive to the back of the laminate itself. Allow these two pieces to cure until the adhesive is tacky.

Apply The Laminate

Being extremely careful to align the laminate on the wall correctly, affix the laminate to the area where it is to be installed. Use a roller or your hands to smooth out the laminate to eliminate any bubbling. Finally, use a router and trim bit to shave away any uneven edges.