Upgrade Your Laminate Countertops with Wilsonart Decorative Edges
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Importance of Decorative Edges
- Wilsonart: Innovators in Laminate Edging
- The Benefits of Wilsonart Decorative Edges
- Choosing the Right Decorative Edge Profile
- Installing Wilsonart Decorative Edges
- Tools and Materials Needed
- Preparing the Laminate
- Installing the Decorative Edge
- Finishing Touches
- Wilsonart Technical Support and Training
- Creating Unique Designs with Wilsonart Decorative Edges
- Other Applications for Wilsonart Decorative Edges
- Conclusion
Wilsonart Decorative Edges: Enhancing Your Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops have long been a popular choice for homeowners and designers due to their affordability and versatility. However, the traditional brown line along the edges of laminate countertops has always been a drawback, limiting the aesthetic appeal of these surfaces. That's where Wilsonart comes in. With over 20 years of experience as innovators in laminate edging, Wilsonart has been helping fabricators around the world in overcoming this limitation and transforming laminate countertops into stunning architectural details.
The Importance of Decorative Edges
When it comes to home decor, the devil is in the details. Even the most well-designed laminate countertops can fall flat without the right decorative edge. Decorative edges not only serve a functional purpose by protecting the edges of the laminate but they also add a touch of style and elegance to the overall look of the countertops. Wilsonart decorative edges are designed to hide the unsightly brown line associated with traditional laminate countertops, giving them a fresh, updated appearance.
Wilsonart: Innovators in Laminate Edging
Wilsonart has been at the forefront of laminate edging innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with laminate countertops. Their extensive range of decorative edge profiles, including bevel, crescent, and cascade, allows homeowners and designers to choose the perfect edge to complement their desired aesthetic. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more traditional design, Wilsonart has the perfect decorative edge to complete the look.
The Benefits of Wilsonart Decorative Edges
One of the key benefits of Wilsonart decorative edges is their versatility. They can easily be paired with hundreds of different laminate designs, giving you endless options to customize the look of your countertops. Whether you want a seamless transition between the laminate and the edge or prefer a bold and contrasting look, Wilsonart has the right combination for you.
Not only are Wilsonart decorative edges aesthetically pleasing, but they are also easy to install. Wilsonart provides a convenient tooling package that includes everything you need for a seamless installation. Whether you choose the snap edge system or the flat edge system, the techniques remain the same, ensuring a hassle-free installation process.
Choosing the Right Decorative Edge Profile
The key to achieving the desired look for your laminate countertops lies in choosing the right decorative edge profile. Wilsonart offers three popular profiles: bevel, crescent, and cascade. The bevel edge provides a simple and clean look, perfect for contemporary designs. The crescent edge adds a touch of elegance with its gentle curve, while the cascade edge creates a dramatic effect with its waterfall-like appearance. Consider your overall design theme and personal preferences to select the perfect decorative edge profile for your laminate countertops.
Installing Wilsonart Decorative Edges
Installing Wilsonart decorative edges is a straightforward process that can be easily done by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install Wilsonart decorative edges:
Tools and Materials Needed
Before getting started, gather the following tools and materials:
- Laminate countertop with Wilsonart decorative edge profile
- Straight cut planer or straight edge and router
- Decorative edge toolkit (including a router and disk sander with preset miter gauges)
- Wood glue
- Nylon strapping tape
- Inside corner template
- Spring clamps (for flat edge style molding)
- Wood blocks and 3-way clamps (for Fe style moldings)
Preparing the Laminate
Begin by ensuring that all sides receiving the Wilsonart decorative molding are cleaned and squared. Use a straight cut planer or a straight edge and router to achieve clean and precise edges. For inside corners, use an inside corner template and leave a 1/8 inch radius.
Installing the Decorative Edge
If your laminate countertop includes clip corners, route them first using a straight edge and router with top bearing bit. Cut a 1/4 inch dado around the top to receive the snap edge molding. Then, rough cut all your molding pieces and final fit them, starting from right to left. Trim the miters close and finish them on a disk sander. Repeat this step for all moldings.
Apply wood glue to the top and bottom of the tongue of the decorative molding. Tap the molding in place and secure it with nylon strapping tape. Use tape around the corner to pull miters tight. Remove any adhesive squeeze-out with a damp cloth.
Finishing Touches
After removing all the tape and clamps, scrape off any residual glue using a scrap piece of laminate or molding. To achieve a seamless finish, rub a scrap piece of laminate adhered to a board over the seams. Flip the top over and attach the build-up strips. Your Wilsonart decorative edge is now complete and ready to enhance the look of your laminate countertops.
Wilsonart Technical Support and Training
Wilsonart is committed to providing excellent technical support to fabricators and installers. In case of any questions or issues during the installation process, Wilsonart offers a hotline for technical support. Additionally, they provide hands-on field training to ensure that professionals are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve the best results.
Creating Unique Designs with Wilsonart Decorative Edges
The versatility of Wilsonart decorative edges goes beyond just countertop applications. With their ability to create curved designs, the Crescent and Cascade flat edge profiles open up new possibilities for unique and eye-catching designs. Whether it's a bar top, kitchen island, peninsula top, desktop, or conference table, Wilsonart decorative edges allow you to design with confidence and create a space that truly reflects your style.
Other Applications for Wilsonart Decorative Edges
While laminate countertops are the most common application for Wilsonart decorative edges, their uses extend beyond just countertops. These decorative edges can also be utilized to enhance the appearance of furniture pieces, such as tables, desks, and cabinets. Adding Wilsonart decorative edges to these pieces can instantly elevate their look and create a cohesive design scheme.
Conclusion
Wilsonart decorative edges are the perfect solution to upgrade the look of your laminate countertops. With their wide range of profiles and ease of installation, Wilsonart offers endless possibilities to transform your countertops into stunning architectural details. Whether you're a homeowner looking to refresh your kitchen or a designer working on a commercial project, Wilsonart has the perfect decorative edge to complement your vision. Let Wilsonart be your partner in creating beautiful and functional spaces.
Highlights
- Wilsonart offers innovative laminate edging solutions that hide the unsightly brown line associated with laminate countertops.
- Decorative edges add style and elegance to laminate countertops, enhancing their overall appearance.
- Wilsonart decorative edges are available in various profiles, allowing for customization and versatility.
- Installing Wilsonart decorative edges is easy, thanks to their convenient tooling package and step-by-step instructions.
- Wilsonart provides technical support and hands-on training to ensure successful installations.
- Wilsonart decorative edges can be used not only for countertops but also for other furniture pieces, providing a cohesive and stylish look.
FAQ
Q: Can I install Wilsonart decorative edges myself, or do I need professional help?
A: Wilsonart decorative edges can be easily installed by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. However, if you're unsure or have limited experience, it's always recommended to seek professional assistance.
Q: Are Wilsonart decorative edges compatible with all types of laminate designs?
A: Yes, Wilsonart decorative edges can be paired with hundreds of different laminate designs, giving you endless options to customize the look of your countertops.
Q: Can Wilsonart decorative edges be used for curved designs?
A: Yes, Wilsonart offers decorative edge profiles like Crescent and Cascade that allow you to create curved designs with your countertops. However, it's important to follow the recommended radius guidelines for best results.
Q: Where can I find technical support for installing Wilsonart decorative edges?
A: Wilsonart offers technical support through their hotline. If you have any questions or encounter any issues during the installation process, you can reach out to their support team for assistance.
Q: Can Wilsonart decorative edges be used for applications other than countertops?
A: Yes, Wilsonart decorative edges can also be used to enhance the appearance of furniture pieces such as tables, desks, and cabinets. This allows for a cohesive design scheme throughout your space.
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