How To Laminate Kitchen Cabinet Doors

How to Laminate Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Laminate is a versatile and affordable material that can be used to update the look of your kitchen cabinets. It is a durable and easy-to-clean material that comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes. Laminate can be applied to both new and existing cabinets, and it can be installed quickly and easily.

Tools and Materials

* Laminate sheets * Contact cement * Measuring tape * Utility knife * Roller * Trim router * Sandpaper

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabinet doors. Remove any hardware from the cabinet doors and clean the surfaces with a damp cloth. Sand the surfaces lightly to create a smooth surface for the laminate to adhere to. 2. Cut the laminate. Measure the cabinet doors and cut the laminate to size using a utility knife. Be sure to cut the laminate slightly larger than the cabinet doors so that you can trim it flush with the edges later. 3. Apply the contact cement. Apply a thin layer of contact cement to both the cabinet doors and the laminate. Allow the contact cement to dry for 5-10 minutes until it becomes tacky. 4. Apply the laminate. Align the laminate with the cabinet doors and press it firmly into place. Use a roller to apply even pressure to the laminate and to remove any air bubbles. 5. Trim the laminate. Use a trim router to trim the laminate flush with the edges of the cabinet doors. Sand the edges of the laminate smooth. 6. Reattach the hardware. Reattach the hardware to the cabinet doors.

Tips

* Use a sharp utility knife to cut the laminate. A dull knife will tear the laminate and make it difficult to apply smoothly. * Allow the contact cement to dry for the full 5-10 minutes before applying the laminate. This will ensure that the laminate adheres properly. * Use a roller to apply even pressure to the laminate. This will help to prevent air bubbles and ensure that the laminate adheres properly. * Trim the laminate flush with the edges of the cabinet doors. This will give the laminate a professional-looking finish. * Sand the edges of the laminate smooth. This will help to prevent the laminate from chipping or peeling.