Surface preparation for laminated plastic
Laminated plastic sheets of 1/16″ thickness are recommended for a flat work surface. You can use laminated plastic of 1/32″ thickness on vertical surfaces.
Thoroughly sand and clean the surface where plastic laminate is to be applied. Remove any paint or varnish before applying the laminated plastic.
Most manufactured countertops are made using a high-density particle board. However, regular particle board and even plywood make ideal bases for plastic laminates.
How to cut the laminated plastic?
You can cut plastic laminate material with a circular saw, saber saw, backsaw or utility knife. The saw blade should be a fine-tooth blade. A strip of masking tape placed where the cut line is to be made helps prevent chipping and makes the line easier to see.
When using a power circular saw or saber saw, cut from the back side of the laminate. These saws cut on the upstroke. Cutting from the back will help prevent chipping. On hand saws, cut from the front side at a low angle.
Important: Always cut the sheets of laminated plastic slightly oversized to allow for trimming.