Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Feb 28, 1999 04:24am | #1

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   Dave the seam placement is a matter of choice. On long straght runs I try to use the sink. We always use seam filler and this gives the shortest amount to fix. On L's and U's we put the seam in the cornor on a straght line with the counter. This depends on how you view the kitchen.

   After reading this it sounds confusing. I have some pic's of counters we have done. Email me and I'll sent them to you.

1. 
   Guest_ | Feb 28, 1999 04:25am | #2

   *If your laminate is not directional the best place for the seams is across the sink if possible so that they are minimized. Remember that you can get laminates in large sheets. Without directional patterns in the material you have more flexibility. The most common directional laminate is fake wood. I have solved the problem of matching seams by not using fake wood. If however you choose to use this junk, the best place for the seams is mitered at the corners. I have found that the best way to cut seams is to get a metal straight edge that is absolutely true. I have a machinist's straight edge that is simply a $40 piece of steel. Mount it on a piece of 1/2" quality plywood large enough to accomodate your router on each side of the straight edge and considerably longer to accomodate clamps. Make sure your router base is true. Run the router, with a straight cut bit, along the straight edge to trim the plywood. You can use a different diameter bit on each side. Mark which bit matches which side. Now you have a jig for cutting perfeclty straight lines. The straight edge guides the router the edge of the plywood is the cut line. Lay one piece of laminate on the counter and pencil scribe the seam. Clamp your jig to this piece of laminate and cut the seam. Lay the other piece of laminate on the counter then put the first piece on top. Adjust the bottom piece so that the grain matches at the seam. Pencil scribe the seam. Use your jig to cut the bottom piece. You will now have a perfect seam. You will also have a jig for cutting perfeclty straight with a router. One side of my jig is set for a 1/2" bit the other for a 3/4" bit. I hope this makes sense.

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 01, 1999 07:30am | #3

   *Mike, Maybe I am missing something, I always am, why do you use two different size bits?

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 01, 1999 07:37am | #5

   *I use the jig for more than laminates. So I can use it to cut a 1/2 or 3/4" slots. Any bit will work for laminates. Make it for your most commonly used bits.

2. 
   David_Kellogg | Mar 01, 1999 07:37am | #4

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   I am new to installing laminate counter tops and have avoided seams to this point. What is the prefered way to cut seams so they will match and what is the best location to put them in a U shaped kitchen?