Transform Your Countertops with Wilsonart Decorative Edges
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Importance of Decorative Edges
- The Advantages of Wilsonart Laminate Edging
- Hiding Unsightly Brown Lines
- Fresh and Updated Look
- Transforming Surfaces into Architectural Details
- Wilsonart Decorative Edge Profiles
- Bevel Profile
- Crescent Profile
- Cascade Profile
- Installation Process of Wilsonart Decorative Edges
- Tools Needed for Installation
- Preparation of Laminate
- Routing Inside Corners
- Routing Clip Corners
- Cutting Dado for Snap Edge Molding
- Final Fitting of Molding
- Securing the Molding in Place
- Applying Wood Glue
- Removing Excess Glue
- Finishing the Edges
- Tips for Using Flat Edge Style Molding
- Attaching Build-Up Strips
- Using Clamps for Holding Molding
- Creating Curved Designs with Crescent and Cascade Edges
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How long has Wilsonart been providing decorative edges?
- What types of decorative edge profiles does Wilsonart offer?
- Are Wilsonart decorative edges easy to install?
Introduction
Welcome to Wilsonart! For over 20 years, Wilsonart has proudly served as an innovator in decorative edges, specifically laminate edging. Our goal has been to assist fabricators around the world in hiding the unsightly brown lines associated with yesterday's laminate countertops. With Wilsonart's wide range of designs and textures, we can easily and affordably transform surfaces into beautifully sculpted architectural details. In this article, we will guide you through the advantages of Wilsonart laminate edging and provide a step-by-step installation process for our decorative edges.
The Importance of Decorative Edges
Decorative edges play a crucial role in enhancing the overall appearance of laminate countertops. They provide a polished and finished look that adds character and style to any space. The right choice of decorative edge can complement the design of your countertops and tie the entire room together. Wilsonart understands the importance of these small details and offers a variety of edge profiles to suit different preferences and design aesthetics.
The Advantages of Wilsonart Laminate Edging
Hiding Unsightly Brown Lines
In the past, laminate countertops were often plagued by visible brown lines along the edges, which detracted from their overall appeal. With Wilsonart laminate edging, you can say goodbye to these unsightly lines. Our decorative edges are designed to seamlessly blend with the laminate surface, creating a clean and cohesive look.
Fresh and Updated Look
Wilsonart continuously introduces new designs and textures to keep up with the latest trends in interior design. By choosing Wilsonart laminate countertops and decorative edges, you can give your space a fresh and updated look. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek design or a more traditional aesthetic, our extensive range of options ensures you'll find the perfect match for your style.
Transforming Surfaces into Architectural Details
With Wilsonart's decorative edges, you have the power to transform ordinary surfaces into extraordinary architectural details. Our three main edge profiles, the bevel, crescent, and cascade, offer versatility and allow you to unleash your creativity. By selecting the right edge profile, you can add depth and dimension to your countertops, turning them into statement pieces.
Wilsonart Decorative Edge Profiles
Wilsonart offers three main decorative edge profiles: the bevel, crescent, and cascade. Each profile has its own unique characteristics and can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your countertops.
Bevel Profile
The bevel profile features a subtle angled edge that adds a touch of sophistication to any space. It pairs well with both contemporary and traditional designs, making it a versatile choice. The bevel profile is available with the SE snap edge or the FE flat edge, providing you with even more options to customize your countertops.
Crescent Profile
The crescent profile is known for its gentle curve, which creates a soft and elegant look. This profile is ideal for adding a touch of elegance to kitchen islands or bar tops. Like the bevel profile, the crescent profile can also be paired with the SE snap edge or the FE flat edge, giving you the flexibility to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Cascade Profile
If you're looking to make a bold statement with your countertops, the cascade profile is the perfect choice. This profile features a dramatic, waterfall-like edge that exudes modernity and style. The cascade profile is available with the SE snap edge or the FE flat edge, allowing you to create a truly unique and eye-catching design.
Installation Process of Wilsonart Decorative Edges
To ensure a successful installation of Wilsonart decorative edges, it is important to follow the correct procedure. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Tools Needed for Installation
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools for the installation process. Wilsonart recommends using a straight-cut planer, a router, a disk sander with preset miter gauges, nylon strapping tape, wood glue, a damp cloth, and clamps appropriate for the specific style of edge molding being used.
Preparation of Laminate
Ensure that the sides of your laminate that will receive Wilsonart decorative molding are cleaned and squared. You can use a straight-cut planer or a straight edge with a router to achieve this. For inside corners, it is recommended to use an inside corner template for best results and leave a 1/8-inch radius on all inside corners.
Routing Inside Corners
If your countertop includes inside corners, it is essential to route them properly. Use a straight edge with a router that has a top-bearing bit to create a clean and precise inside corner cut.
Routing Clip Corners
For countertops with clip corners, route them next following the same technique as routing inside corners. A top-bearing bit on a straight edge with a router is the easiest way to achieve accurate results.
Cutting Dado for Snap Edge Molding
To receive the snap edge molding, cut a 1/4-inch dado around the top of your countertop. This will ensure a snug fit and allow for easy installation of the molding.
Final Fitting of Molding
Rough cut all the molding pieces and then gradually fit them into place, starting from the right and working towards the left. Trim the miters close and finish them on a disk sander. Repeat this process for all the molding pieces.
Securing the Molding in Place
Apply a bead of Wilsonart Type II wood glue to the top and bottom of the tongue on the molding. Tap the molding into place and secure it using nylon strapping tape. Apply tape around corners to pull the miters tight. If desired, spring clamps can also be used to hold the molding in place during the installation process.
Removing Excess Glue
After securing the molding, wipe off any excess glue squeeze-out with a damp cloth. It is important to ensure that no glue residue is left behind, as it can affect the overall appearance of the decorative edges.
Finishing the Edges
To achieve the final finish on your Wilsonart decorative edges, take a scrap piece of laminate adhered to a board and rub it over the seams. This will create a smooth and polished look. Flip the top over and attach build-up strips if necessary. Once you have completed these steps, your Wilsonart laminate countertops with decorative edges are ready to be installed.
Tips for Using Flat Edge Style Molding
Wilsonart recommends the following tips when using the flat edge style molding:
Attaching Build-Up Strips
If you are working with the flat edge style molding, it is recommended to attach the build-up strips prior to flush trimming the laminate top. This will ensure a seamless and secure fit.
Using Clamps for Holding Molding
During the dry fitting process, spring clamps can be used to hold the molding in place. This will help you achieve a precise fit and prevent any movement during the installation.
Creating Curved Designs with Crescent and Cascade Edges
One advantage of the crescent and cascade flat edge profiles is their ability to create curved designs. These profiles allow for designs with a maximum radius of 48 inches. The preferred method of securing the molding for curved designs is using 3-way clamps. This will maintain the right height of the laminate top and ensure a perfect fit at the seam area.
Conclusion
Wilsonart decorative edges provide the perfect finishing touch to laminate countertops, elevating their aesthetic appeal. With a wide variety of edge profiles available and an easy installation process, Wilsonart offers endless possibilities to transform your space. Whether you're looking for a subtle bevel profile or a statement-making cascade profile, Wilsonart has the edges to enhance your countertops and bring your design vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long has Wilsonart been providing decorative edges?
Wilsonart has been an industry leader in decorative edges for over 20 years.
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What types of decorative edge profiles does Wilsonart offer?
Wilsonart offers three main decorative edge profiles: the bevel, crescent, and cascade profiles. Each profile has its own distinct look and feel, allowing customers to choose the one that best suits their design preferences.
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Are Wilsonart decorative edges easy to install?
Yes, Wilsonart decorative edges are designed for easy installation. Wilsonart provides a comprehensive installation guide and offers technical support through their hotline. Additionally, a convenient tooling package is available to assist with the installation process.
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