The build-up strips do add support to the countertop at key points but that is not necessarily their primary function. Countertops are made of thick material for a relatively short run, so heavy bracing is not necessary to support common countertop appliances and daily uses.
Do I need buildup strips for laminate countertops?
We have our laminate countertops for at least part of the kitchen cut and glued together (and secured with miter bolts). In looking for info about attaching it to cabinets, I found that most websites say you need to use buildup strips.
What are build-up strips for countertops?
Build-ups are typically ¾ inch strips of wood attached with screws to the cabinet tops. Most manufacturers will include the build-up strips with a prefabricated countertop, but one can make their own from scrap plywood or pine. The build-up strips do add support to the countertop at key points but that is not necessarily their primary function.
How do you build up under a kitchen countertop?
Measure the hollow space under your new countertop for the correct build-up height. Your manufacturer can supply build-up strips or you can cut them yourself. Our measurement was 3/4 in., so we used 1x2s as build-up strips. Screw the build-up strips to the tops of your cabinets (sides and along the back) using 1-1/4 in. drywall screws.
What is a build-up countertop?
Build-up refers to the hidden strips of wood that give a laminated counter top the visual illusion of being 1 ½ inch thick. When one purchases a prefabricated countertop, the underside reveals that the laminate is actually glued to a board that is only ¾ inch thick. This is typical of the most common countertops.
Are build-up strips required for countertops?
In order to ensure adequate support of your laminate countertop, build-up strips must be installed spanning the entire distance from the front to the back build-down strip on the countertop. On standard face frame cabinets, the end build-up strips must be installed 2" from the end of the cabinet run.
How thick are build-up strips for countertops?
Build-up refers to the hidden strips of wood that give a laminated counter top the visual illusion of being 1 ½ inch thick. When one purchases a prefabricated countertop, the underside reveals that the laminate is actually glued to a board that is only ¾ inch thick.
Is countertop overhang necessary?
Countertop overhang is important. It prevents countertop drips from continuing down the face of the base cabinets. It also hides the junction between the countertop and the cabinet.
How do you build the edges of a countertop?
4:055:46How to Install IdealEdge® Decorative Edging by Formica Group - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse any angle measurements cut in sand both edges to fit flush with the ideal edge on the shortMoreUse any angle measurements cut in sand both edges to fit flush with the ideal edge on the short sides of the countertop. If everything lines up fully coat the back of the edge with adhesive.
What can I use for countertop build strips?
0:422:21Build up strips for MM Countertops Laminate Tops - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor standard cabinets attach the build-up strips to the top of the cabinet space and back frameMoreFor standard cabinets attach the build-up strips to the top of the cabinet space and back frame using one in a quarter inch drywall screws.
How do you secure a countertop to cabinets?
1:474:26How to Install Laminate Countertops - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a file to take off any burrs then check the fit complete the look by adding return splashesMoreUse a file to take off any burrs then check the fit complete the look by adding return splashes where the counter meets the walls. And end caps on the counter overhangs attach the build-up strips.
How far should countertops stick out?
about 1 1/2 inchesA countertop overhang provides a lip that extends beyond the front of your cabinets. The purpose of a standard overhang (usually about 1 1/2 inches) is to prevent liquid spills from dribbling down the face of your cabinets and to keep crumbs from finding their way into the drawers and cupboards below.
Is 1 inch countertop overhang enough?
Standard countertop overhang is 1 ½ inches. Keep in mind that this is 1 ½ inches over the front edge of the base cabinet. While some countertops may have different overhang measurements, this is the number that is seen as standard for homes. While 1 ½ inches is the most common, it's far from mandatory.
How far over should a countertop hang?
A standard countertop usually has an overhang of 1½ inches. Although some countertops may have a longer or shorter overhang, this number is generally the standard length for an overhang in homes. When utilizing an overhang for kitchen islands, the standard amount of overhang is typically 12 inches.
What is a built up edge countertop?
There are stringers that run across the bottom of the countertop so it sets flat on top of the cabinet. The built up edge does not hang over the edge of the cabinets. The underside of a kitchen island with a built up edge.
How do you hide a gap between countertops and walls?
0:423:55Caulking gaps between countertop and wall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clip1 inch tape you can use you know 3/4 you can use a wider. If you want and I took that and ran it toMore1 inch tape you can use you know 3/4 you can use a wider. If you want and I took that and ran it to the exact height to the countertop on the wall. And then. I took another piece of tape.
How do you install laminate edge strips?
2:085:09Applying a Laminate Worktop Edging Strip: Kitchen Part 5 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't want any lumps to show through once you've put the edging in place. Also. It's quiteMoreYou don't want any lumps to show through once you've put the edging in place. Also. It's quite tricky to not get glue on the other side of the trim.
How thick is laminate countertop?
When one purchases a prefabricated countertop, the underside reveals that the laminate is actually glued to a board that is only ¾ inch thick. This is typical of the most common countertops.
Do you need build ups on rounded end pieces?
It is common for build ups to not be needed for rounded or finished end pieces that have been provided by manufacturers. However, that will only occur when the entire end of a countertop is exposed. Back to Glossary.
