What Materials Are Worktop Overlays Available In?Ī countertop overlay is the result of a process in which concrete or another artificial material, such as granite, wood, or laminate, is applied or installed over existing countertop material to create a new layer of a smooth surface that covers the existing surface.įor concrete overlay it can be tinted to match existing kitchen or bathroom hardware or cabinets, giving the space a unique look.A wood covering must be thoroughly sealed or oiled for stain- and moisture-resistance. Then you add a front edge made from the same material or use a solid hardwood edge to cap the layered edges of the plywood. In short, you cut the main surface pieces to fit and glue them to the old counter (perhaps with screws driven up from below the old counter). This is a very custom makeover that requires some basic woodworking skills and tools. This material has a thicker top layer than plywood (for durability and repairs), and it comes in 4-by-8-foot sheets, just like regular plywood. Solid hardwood is more durable and repairable than plywood (with its very thin top veneer layer), but plywood comes in larger pieces and is less expensive.īamboo plywood offers the best of both worlds. You can cover your old counters with wide planks of solid hardwood or even hardwood or bamboo plywood. If you've always wanted butcher block or are drawn to the beauty of a real wood countertop, now's your chance to have it. To minimize stains and deep-set crud, be sure to seal the grout as soon as possible after installing the tile, and reapply the sealer every few years, as recommended by the manufacturer. Tile is extremely durable and generally easy to clean, but the grout joints are prone to staining and collecting grime. If your counters can accommodate a little extra thickness, it's best to start with a layer of 1/4-inch cement board glued to the countertop, and lay the tile over that. Tile can be installed directly on top of the old counters, provided they are flat and are stable enough to prevent the new tile from cracking. Natural stone tile also works for this application, but the stone must be sealed periodically to protect against stains.
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tile are the most stain- and heat-resistant, plus they come in a vast range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Tile is great for covering all kinds of surfaces-walls, floors, and showers-and there's no reason why you can't use it to cover up your old countertop. The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.
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