Choices

• There are several different counter top choices. Granite and stone counter tops are very popular and can increase the value of your home. However, these types of counter tops are best installed by a professional. Many types of stone counters will come with warranties, but are only valid if installed by a professional.
  
  If you want to install your own counter tops, consider a custom laminate, a post-form or ceramic tile. Post-form counter tops can be purchased with the laminate already installed by the factory. For custom laminate, you choose and install the laminate you want on the particleboard counter top.
  
  

Removing the old counter top

• First, turn off the water and remove any plumbing fixtures. Next, you'll remove any screws or brackets in the counter top. Finally, use a utility knife to loosen any caulk at the back splash. With a pry bar, begin to lift the counter tops off of the cabinets. You may need to use a saw or chisel if some of the pieces of the counter top are reluctant to move.
  
  

Installation

• Post-form counter tops will come with everything you need to make the installation as easy as possible. For example, these counter tops will come with rounded edges to hang over the cabinets and are also pre-mitered to fit around corners.
  
  Once you have determined the dimensions you need to cover your cabinets, cut the counter top to length with a jigsaw. Use a clamp to hold the counter down while you cut and a straightedge to make sure that the cut is even.
  
  Where there are exposed sides of the counter top, you will install a batten and an end cap laminate so the edges match the top of the counter.
  
  Place the counter on top of the cabinets and make sure that the surface is level. Also, make sure that the back splash is flush with the wall. If it isn't, use a belt sander to solve the problem. Once everything is level and the dimensions fit, glue and secure the counter top in place.
  
  For custom laminate counter tops, you will follow many of the same steps, except you will add the laminate of your choice to the top. This will require you to cut the laminate to fit and glue it in place with an adhesive. This can be more time-consuming, but it allows you to have the exact look for your kitchen. You can also try using a custom laminate to install steel or tile. Follow the manufacturer directions on the proper installation of these materials.