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Worktop Fitting

Worktop Fitting

Here are some hints and tips to help you fit your worktop, remember we also offer a worktop cutting service but this does take 4 weeks - normall boards are same or next week delivery.  If you want to Selffit your worktops this may help.

Dimensions and planning when worktop fitting

If your new worktop is to replace an existing worktop that is a good fit and can be removed intact, this can be used as a template. If the layout is to be changed, accurately measure the new area, determining both length and depth using a steel tape measure. Since rooms are seldom perfectly square, carefully check all angles; if necessary make a cardboard template of the area.Transfer your new measurements onto the worktop, mark all cut lines and angles with a pencil, and double check dimensions before cutting.

Cutting and cut-outs when worktop fitting

The preferred method to perform any of the following operations would be to use a hand router. If you do not have access to a hand router then please follow the relevant section for the type of saw you have available.When using a router, always start at the postformed front edge, with the unwanted material on the right hand side. All cut-outs should be carried out with the worktops loosely laid onto the cabinets to ensure that the cut-outs / appliances to be installed do not interfere with the units underneath. To minimise possible chipping of the face laminate, apply masking tape over the line to be cut, and score the line prior to cutting.This applies to whichever of the following methods is used.

Hand sawing

With the worktop face up using a fine-toothed (4 per cm/10-12 per inch) saw, cut along the waste side of the line marked previously, starting at the postformed edge. Hold the saw at approx 70 degrees, until past the postformed edge, then lower the angle to 20 – 30 degrees for a straighter cut. This will help reduce chipping. Apply pressure on the downward stroke only to avoid lifting the laminate surface.

Power sawing

The cutting action of a power saw, be it a circular saw or jigsaw, is different to hand sawing, therefore cutting must take place with the worktop face down.
Hint: Make sure you get the right tools for the job: downward cutting blade for jigsaws, circular saw with laminate cutting blade not a rip saw. As a general rule - the more teeth the better.

Jointing when worktop fitting

Before cutting and jointing worktops ensure the compatibility of the colour and surface texture, as slight variations may occur. Worktops can be jointed end-to-end or at right angles. These joints are best cut professionally, and jointed using connecting bolts. All cut edges must be sealed (see Sealing section).

Installation

The worktops should be fixed to the base units ensuring that these are level and securely fixed. Secure the worktops to the units using proprietary metal brackets, KD blocks or timber battens (not supplied).

Cut-outs

All cut-outs must have a minimum 6mm radius rounded corner to prevent stress cracking. Mark the position of the type of cut-out using the manufacturer’s template supplied, drill a hole in each corner of the template and cut, using your preferred cutting method, following the previous instructions. Do not allow the saw to run over the radius formed in the corners as stress cracking may appear once the appliance has been installed. All types of cut-outs for sink, tap hole or hob must be adequately sealed against both moisture ingress and heat.