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countertop

How to Install Your Countertop

Contents

    – Step 1: Prepare to install the countertop

    – Step 2: Cut out the countertop

    – Step 3: Installing the countertop

    – Step 4: Finishing

As the centerpiece of a kitchen, the countertop is now as decorative as it is functional. Of a very different nature, you can easily install it without special tools.

Depending on the material (wood, marble or granite, reconstituted stone…) that composes it, the cuts will have to be subcontracted to a professional with the appropriate cutting tools.

Here are some tips on how to install a countertop at home.

1. Prepare the installation of the countertop

The installation of a countertop must be rigorously horizontal, and this is why it is essential to check the flatness of the assembled furniture.

To do this, you can use a large aluminum mason’s rule. The advantage of these rulers is that they are dimensionally stable (under normal conditions of use). To check the flatness, proceed as follows:

    – Place the mason’s rule over the kitchen base units.

    – Place the spirit level and check for levelness.

    – If the bubble is not between the 2 lines of the level indicating that the surface is flat, adjust the height of the furniture concerned by screwing or unscrewing the furniture legs until perfect flatness is achieved.

    – Make sure that all furniture is securely fastened together and that no movement is possible.

2. Cut out the countertop

Before placing the countertop on the kitchen furniture, you must cut it to the correct length.

If you place the countertop in a corner, check that the intersection is at 90° using the square. To cut the countertop, here are the right steps:

    – Measure the length of the countertop.

    – Place the work surface on stable support: table, trestle… without turning it over!

    – Transfer the measured length to the work surface.

    – Cut the work surface with a jigsaw with a reversed blade.

3. Lay the work surface

countertop

You must now place the countertop on the furniture. Fasten the countertop with screws through the top of the furniture:

    – Drill holes in the elements with a drill every 50 cm.

    – Place the countertop on the furniture.

    – Fasten the countertop to the furniture by screwing from underneath at the drilled locations.

4. Finishing

    – Cut an edge strip the width of the countertop.

    – Glue the edge strip with an iron if it can be thermo-glued; otherwise, use contact glue such as neoprene-based glue. Apply this glue to the edge and the edge of the countertop.

    – File by pressing lightly on the edges.

    – Then, apply a special kitchen silicone sealant or a brushed aluminum profile strip to the back of the countertop.

Materials required for the installation of a countertop

Aluminum ruler 2 m About $15
Spirit level Starting at $4
Phillips screwdriver Starting at $3
Jigsaw Starting at $30
Reverse blade for jigsaw $10 approx.
Iron Starting at about $40
Drill Starting at $30
Trestles $7 for 2
Pencil $0,50
File Starting at $5
Neoprene glue Starting at $5

Read more:

How Do You Fix a Quartz Countertop;

Quartz Countertops: The Key Benefits!

3 DIY Tips for Making a Natural Shower Gel;

7 Good Reasons to Start Doing Crafts;

4 Easy Tips Every DIY Enthusiast Should Know!

4 Important Tips for DIY Beginners;

The 7 Top Safety Precautions for DIY;

5 Steps to Driving a Nail Like a Pro;

3 Easy Steps for Making a Scrub With Baking Soda;

2 Important Steps on How to Paint a Window;

7 Important Steps to Install Wallpaper.

Hope this post will help you install your countertop. Remember to share and comment!

 

How to Paint a Window

2 Important Steps on How to Paint a Window

2 Important Steps on How to Paint a Window

 Contents

 – Before you start…

 – Step 1: Prepare the surface

 – Step 2: Case 1: Apply paint to a swinging window

 – Step 2: Case 2: Painting a sliding window

 Repainting a window can protect a new frame, change the decoration or renovate an old opening.

 It is possible to paint wood and aluminum windows, provided that the coating is adapted to the material. Many types of paints are available on the market today.

 It is essential to do careful preparation and follow the steps to ensure optimal results.

 Here’s how to paint a window, whether it’s hinged or sliding.

How to Paint a Window
How to Paint a Window

 Before you begin…

 – Be sure to select an appropriate paint for the window: exterior or interior wood, aluminum, etc.

 – Before repainting old paint, make sure it is in good condition. If they are not, strip them completely so that the new coating will adhere better.

 Ensure that the paint you choose is compatible with the old paint or base (for example, acrylic will not hold on to glycerine). If necessary, use a primer beforehand to neutralize the base.

 – Do not paint the seals. Be sure to protect them with masking tape beforehand.

 – Adapt the brush to the size of the wood to be painted to avoid overflow: the brushes on the moldings, a small roller on the amounts, or a small flat brush for the edges.

 Warning: it is not recommended to paint PVC windows! Even with a special undercoat, the paint may flake off. If you choose dark color instead of white, be aware that PVC is not made to withstand expansion when exposed to the sun…

 1. Prepare the support

How to Paint a Window
How to Paint a Window

 Before painting your windows, it is advisable to prepare your support as with any painting project. This preparation will differ according to the nature of the support.

 Note: this method also applies to the painting of tilt and turn windows.

 – Remove old paint with a scraper, sanding paper, or paint stripper to obtain a clean and smooth surface.

 – Dust with a brush and clean the entire surface with a detergent.

 – Let dry.

 – Apply masking tape all around glazing, walls, metal elements if necessary, and on the joints.

 On new or good condition siding

How to Paint a Window
How to Paint a Window

 – Clean the window with a detergent to remove all dirt.

 – Let dry well.

 On raw wood

How to Paint a Window
How to Paint a Window

 – Sand with fine grain paper.

 – Apply a preventive treatment.

 On aluminum

How to Paint a Window
How to Paint a Window

 Sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to facilitate the adhesion of the new paint.

 2. Case 1: Apply the paint on a swinging window

 – Work on a closed window or lay the sash to facilitate horizontal work. In this case, be sure to remove all metal parts if they are not to be painted.

 – Apply a primer if necessary:

 ◦ Start with the moldings and rods with small brushes, then continue on the crosspieces and stiles with a small roller.

 ◦ Don’t overload your brush, or you’ll risk drips!

 ◦ Paint the frame last.

 ◦ Let it dry before moving on to the finish.

 – Use a paint that is appropriate for the surface. Proceed as you did with the primer coat.

 – Open the window and paint the remaining parts.

 – Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time and recommended number of coats.

 – Carefully remove the masking tape once the paint no longer sticks to your finger.

 – Wait several days before reassembling the sash onto the frame.

 2. Case 2: Apply paint to sliding window

 To successfully paint your sliding windows, we will start by painting the exterior sash:

 – Delineate the areas to be painted with masking tape. Protect the sealing joints in particular.

 – Open both sashes.

 – First, paint the visible parts of the outer frame without touching the tracks.

 – Move the inner sash to paint the rest of the outer frame. Let it dry.

 Then proceed to paint the inner sash:

 – Paint the inner sash and then the window frame.

 – Let it dry well.

 

 Finally, you must apply the paint to the slides and ornaments:

 – Proceed to paint the inner slides and the accessible portion of the outer slides.

 – Remove the masking tape before the paint is dry to avoid tearing it off.

 Materials for painting a window

 Sanding paper Approximately $5 per 3 sheets
 Alkaline detergent $3 approx.
 Masking tape $1 per roll
 Roller Starting at $5
 Flat brush Starting at $1
 Universal undercoat Starting at $10 per liter
 Scraper $10 approx.
 Sponge $1 approx.
 Stripper About $22/L
 Brush Starting at $3
Wallpaper

7 Important Steps to Install Wallpaper

7 Important Steps to Install Wallpaper

Contents

– Tips for hanging wallpaper

– Step 1: Prepare to hang the first strip of wallpaper

– Step 2: Cut the first strip of wallpaper

– Step 3: Glue the first strip of wallpaper

– Step 4: Install the first strip of wallpaper

– Step 5: Continue with the wallpaper installation

– Step 6: Wallpaper the openings

– Step 7: Do the finishing touches

With its variations of colors, textures, and patterns, wallpaper is back in fashion. It is relatively easy to decorate a room, as long as you use the right tools, follow a few installation guidelines, and be meticulous.

Before installing wallpaper, it is necessary to prepare the support to facilitate the gluing and the smooth holding.

Tips for installing wallpaper

– Choose a glue adapted to the type of paper (vinyl paper, standard…).

– Check the characteristics of the paper before starting: double gluing, joints…

– For papers with joints, remember to match each strip. When cutting, take into account the height of the seam usually indicated on the roll.

– Choose a plastic flask for vinyl and expanded papers.

– Remember to remove everything that is attached to the walls: switches, sockets, lighting…

1. Prepare the installation of the first strip of wallpaper

Mix wallpaper paste according to the dosage and instructions indicated on the product. Unfold the gluing table if necessary. If you don’t have one, you can use a door placed on two trestles, which will be easier to clean than a table.

Choose a corner, the edge of a door, or a window to lay the first strip. Check the verticality of this starting point with a spirit level.

To ensure the final rendering and verticality of the wallpaper, transfer the width of the strip to the wall with the tape measure. Draw a straight line that will serve as a guide along the entire height of the wall with the ruler and the spirit level.

Be careful: observe this step because this first strip serves as a base and reference for the rest of the work. If it is laid crooked, everything else will certainly be crooked.

2. Cut the first strip of wallpaper

– Determine the height of the strip.

– Remember to add about 10 cm for the cuts.

– On the gluing table, cut the first strip using a pair of scissors or a cutter.

3. Glue the first strip of wallpaper

– Turn the strip over on its back and glue it widely with the gluing brush, from the center to the edges.

– Fold it on itself, in accordion or wallet shape, without marking the folds, and let the glue soak in as long as necessary.

– If the wallpaper requires double gluing, remember to glue the wall as well.

4. Installing the first strip of wallpaper

To install the strip, start at the top:

– Position it according to the markings, remembering to make it protrude about 5 cm towards the ceiling for cutting.

– Marouflez with the brush to wallpaper, while leaving the interior towards outside to drive out the air.

– Check by stepping back that the strip is well-positioned. If necessary, gently peel off and replace.

– Unfold the entire height, respecting the line.

– Stamp the entire surface.

5. Continue the installation of the wallpaper

Wallpaper

Cut the following strips from the roll. Glue them as you go along.

When the glue time is over, apply the second strip starting from the top and following the edge of the first.

Note: do not take into account the sockets and switches that have been removed beforehand.

After taping, remove the excess glue with a wet sponge and pass the roller on the edges of the strips to glue them perfectly.

Repeat the operation for all the following strips.

6. Installing wallpaper at the level of the openings

It is easier to adapt the width of the strip so that it arrives close to the window than to take a whole strip and cut it following the angles of the window.

At doors and windows:

– Take the measurement of the width of the strip and possibly other cuts (height between the door and the ceiling…). Add about 10 cm for the cuts.

– Transfer these measurements to the strip, and with the mason’s rule, trace the cut.

– With the scissors or the cutter, cut according to the marks.

Proceed with the gluing, the installation, and the taping according to the previous indications.

7. Make the finishing touches

For cuts in the ceiling, at the bottom of the wall, and around the windows, use the wide spatula and the cutter.

Position the spatula perpendicular to the paper and follow the edge of the blade with the cutter.

Note: at the outlets and switches, cut a cross with the cutter. Remove the wires and reassemble the sockets and switches after the wallpaper is completely dry.

Materials for wallpapering

Wallpaper paste Approx. $3 per 250 g package
Wallpaper brush About $3
Aluminum ruler 2 m About $15
Gluing brush About $7
Sponge $1 approx.
Cutter About $3
Wide spatula About $5
Tape measure Starting at $4
Spirit level Starting at $4
Pair of scissors Starting at $3
Upholstery wheel Starting at $2

 

Do you want more DIY tips? Read more here:

DIY

The 7 Top Safety Precautions for DIY

The 7 Top Safety Precautions for DIY

Contents

    – Before you start

    – During the DIY process

    – After the work

    – What to do in case of an accident?

On average, one person is admitted to the emergency room every two minutes for a DIY accident. Falls, cuts, burns, crushing, electrocution, and poisoning are the most frequent injuries.

Here are all the precautions you need to take to work safely.

Good to know: to stay on good terms with your neighbors, remember to warn them of your DIY work. Check with your town hall to find out what hours are tolerated and set by the bylaws.

Before starting

The vast majority of DIY accidents occur when basic safety rules are not followed. To avoid this:

    – 1. Please choose the right tools for your work and make sure they are in good condition. An unsuitable or worn tool can be dangerous for your safety and that of your environment.

    – 2. Protect yourself:

        ◦ by using quality safety equipment: gloves, mask, chemical resistant boots, hearing protection, hard hat, and safety glasses;

        ◦ tying back your hair;

        ◦ removing your jewelry;

        ◦ choosing clothing that is neither too loose so as not to snag the material nor too tight so as not to impede your movement.

    – 3. Arrange your work environment to suit the job:

        ◦ Be sure not to use electricity near water.

        ◦ Do not perform work in a poorly lit and ventilated area.

        ◦ Keep your work area free of dust and other items that may interfere with your work.

        ◦ Check the stability and sturdiness of the tools and supports used.

    – 4. Read the instruction manuals to learn as much as possible about the specifics of the tools you are using and the safety instructions to follow.

      Warning: an odorless product is not a risk-free product. Many products contain chemicals, even if they do not smell.

During the work

DIY

When your work is in progress:

    – 5. Keep children away: chemical fumes, splashes, and noise are even more dangerous for them than they are for you.

    – 6. Stay focused on your work: When you’re working on a project, even small mistakes can have dramatic consequences. It’s very easy to break a finger with a hammer or fall off a scaffold because you didn’t secure yourself properly. So be careful throughout the DIY process.

After the job

If the job is finished, you still have a few steps to take before you are completely done:

    – 7. (i) Tidy up your work environment: unplug all appliances and put toxic products out of reach of children.

    – 7. (ii) Tidy up, clean up, and air out: this will prevent you from getting your feet caught in the extension cord or causing a fire by leaving an appliance plugged in.

Please note: this list is not exhaustive. The precautions to take depend on the work being done and the equipment used.

What to do in case of an accident?

    – In the event of a minor burn, place the affected area under cold water for 15 minutes and then apply greasy tulle.

    – In case of a cut, disinfect the affected area and protect it with a bandage.

    – In case of projection on the face, rinse abundantly with water, and contact a doctor.

    – In case of injection or ingestion of the chemical, contact your nearest poison control center.

How did you find this post? Do you want more information on this subject? Leave us your comments below, and we’ll get back to you quickly.

Read more here:

4 Important Tips for DIY Beginners

Welcome

If you’re a creative person looking for project suggestions, or stuck indoors with nothing better to do, have a look at some of our nifty DIY guides here on The Craftsperson’s Blog! You’re sure to find the spark you need.