Applying Edging Strips to Laminate Kitchen Countertops: A Worktop Express® Nutshell Guide
Each of our laminate worktops comes with at least one fully-finished side that has either a square-edge, a 3mm or 6mm smooth edge profile.
When installing your kitchen worktops, it is likely that you will need to apply laminate edging strip to at least one additional edge of your worktop. The majority of our worktops come supplied with edging strip included, though how many you will need depends on how many sides will be on show – should you wish to create a breakfast bar, it is likely you will need to purchase additional edging.
Edging strip can be applied either before or after installation, although – to avoid damage or having to re-finish any of the edges – we would suggest you apply it once the worktop has been cut to size and fitted in place.
Fitting edging strips to Laminate Kitchen Countertops
- First, ensure that the edges you wish to finish are flat and free from dust or debris.
- Cover the surface of the worktop with masking tape, to protect it from any excess adhesive.
- Apply PVA adhesive – or an appropriate contact adhesive – along the edge of the exposed composite fibreboard.
- Place the edging strip over the adhesive and clamp in place whilst the glue dries. We recommend using a 3-way clamp for this task.
- Once firmly affixed, cut the strip to size and remove any excess using a laminate trimmer or a sharp carpenter’s plane.
- Use a fine-toothed file on the edge of the strip until it is flush with the worktop. You may also want to use fine sandpaper to create a perfectly smooth finish.
- Take great care to ensure you do not remove too much of the strip, as you may expose the fibreboard, which looks messy and leaves the laminate core vulnerable to moisture ingress.
If you are using laminate worktops either side of a free-standing cooker, you may want to consider using metal strips instead. These can be screwed into the fibreboard and will protect the laminate from excess heat radiated from the appliance.
Additional laminate edging strips can be purchased on our website. If you are doing a DIY installation and are not confident that you will be able to complete the above process successfully, why not take advantage of our professional edging strip application service? You can read more about this service on our bespoke laminate worktops page.
If you are fitting your own laminate worktops, the following guides may also be useful to you:
Please Note:This Information Guide was originally posted on 25th of November 2016 and was most recently updated on 19th April 2018 to include additional information.
7 Responses to “Applying Edging Strips to Laminate Kitchen Countertops: A Worktop Express® Nutshell Guide”
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How exactly do you clamp the edging strip to the benchtop for it to set?
Hi Eric,
We recommend using a couple of 3-way clamps when applying edging strips. Alternatively, we are pleased to offer a worktop edging strip application service.
This affordable service takes the hassle out of worktop installation and guarantees a professional finish, leaving you with more time to sit back and enjoy the look of your new kitchen work surface.
There is more information on this service here http://www.worktop-express.co.uk/laminate-kitchen-worktops-cut-to-size#edging-strip-application
Many Thanks,
Adrian @ Worktop Express
Hi, I have received my order of white Andromeda sparkle worktops (thank you), and am wondering if the edging tape is in the packaging. I assumed it would be supplied, but have just read that it is in the majority of worktops, not all.
Thank you
Hello Lin
Thank you for messaging. Both the square and rounded Andromeda sparkle laminate worktops are supplied with enough edging for the two short sides. These should be in the packaging with the worktop. If it is not, our sales team will be able to help – please contact them on 0345 22 22 644.
If you require ABS edging, you will need to buy it separately. This type is manufactured from 2mm thick ABS acrylic and has a superior finish.
Kind regards,
Stephen @ Worktop Express
I have just taken delivery of the bespoke Megara laminate worktop and used the edging service. Appears I left out one side of the worktop
From the comment above, is the worktop supplied with edging strips then? If so, is it hidden in the package cos I don’t see it.
Thanks
Hi Yemi,
Bespoke worktops come with the finished edges on the diagram supplied by the customer. We therefore don’t include extra edging strips in the delivery. Standard worktops come with extra edging strips included.
Many thanks,
Adam @ Worktop Express
Great! Thank you so much. Keep up the good work.