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Routing laminate worktop

Posted by Jas N, on
Just ordered a new kitchen to fit myself but ive never routed a laminate worktop before. I am going to buy the jig to do it properly, my question is how easy is it to do or am i better off paying someone to do this for me ive watched vids on youtube but am worried im going to mess up £800 quids worth of work top... is it worth getting some old laminate and practicing? Cheers Jas

Joseph Hickey

Hi Jas simply pay a professional . Router's are a great tool in fact my favorite but they can be very dangerous if you have no experience in using one. Good luck Joe
Daniel Warfield

Daniel Warfield

Hi Jas, Personally I would recommend hiring a professional, the general fee is between £60 - £80 per joint so this is less than the cost of a decent jig. hope this helps you make up your mind. Regards, Daniel

Karl Hockless

Hi Jas, Before you fit the worktops, or have them fitted, make sure all the units are absolutely level or you will have problems. Worktop joints - need to be away from the sink and need access underneath for the bolts. Carcass may need cutting to facilitate this. You may have to cut away part of the wall if it's a U shape kitchen and wall cabinets may get in the way if they have already been fitted. To do the joints themselves, you will need a decent jig, powerful enough router (2,000 watts), correct diameter bit/s and possibly an offset collar to go on the router plate. You will also need the tools (I use a Festool plunge saw) and to be confident that you can mark up and cut out the holes correctly for the sink and hob. NB There are specific requirements that have to be met in terms of where the hob is positioned in relation to the back wall, cupboards and the hood above it. Cutouts will need sealing up with silicone and the joints will need Colourfill and bolts. The worktop edges will need finishing with impact adhesive and the laminate strip provided. By the time you have invested in all this gear, you could get in a professional to do the job and not risk ruining your worktops or doing something that does not comply with legislation. If you do decide to do them yourself, get some old worktop and practice. A router bit will normally do one joint and one set of bolt holes. Take your time - I always allow a day to do worktops. If you decide to get a pro in (recommended), get them involved right from the start so they don't turn up to the job and start having to undo your work. Good luck! Karl

robert bradshaw

If your not 100% confident don't attempt it , so easy to make a costly mistake & paying a kitchen fitter just to do the Worktops will cost you less than buying a jig . Router etc

russell woodward

Hi , not a easy job at all ! If you have ago at this yourself and you mess it up you will not be happy , by the time you have bought a good quality jig and correct router bit you would probably be better off paying someone to do it ! Ps even a good quality router bit will only make about 3 cutts ! Your choice mate but I know which route I would choose , cheers Russ

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