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A person cutting a laminated benchtop with a saw

Overview

When you install a benchtop in your kitchen it becomes the centrepiece, so you want to get it right. We show you how to measure and cut it to size properly. You'll also see how to help protect the laminate from chipping when you cut it and a great way to make sure your cut is straight.

Steps

1Measure the cut point on your laminate benchtop

Place the benchtop in position on the kitchen cabinets and measure how much it hangs over the end. The overhang for a benchtop is normally about 40mm. If your overhang is more than that, it's worth giving it a trim. Subtract 40mm from the length of your current overhang and mark that distance on the wall end of your bench.
A person measuring a laminated benchtop

2Cut through the laminate benchtop

Place masking tape over the top of the cut line to protect the laminate from chipping. Then turn the benchtop over and mark the cut line on the underside of the bench. Use your spirit level to make sure your cut is straight. Clamp it next to your line, set back as far from the line as the edge of the base plate on your saw is from the saw blade. Then cut your benchtop and the job is done.
A person cutting a laminated benchtop with a saw

3Ready to install your benchtop?

Check out our video on how to install a laminate benchtop.

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.