Installation Instructions

Q - How should laminate countertops be stored prior to installation?
A - Whenever possible, store your countertops horizontally and as at as possible. Try to keep them in a warm/dry area. After dry-tting the
pieces (laying out together and inspecting), put the pieces back in their protective packaging until installation. Avoid storing countertops
in garages or basements.
Q - Can laminate countertops be used as a cutting boards or have hot utensils laid on them?
A - While contemporary laminates do have durable nishes, you should not cut directly on the surface or lay any utensils warmer than
approximately 250℉ on the countertop for an extended period of time.
Q - Are build-up strips necessary for installation in every instance?
A - Yes. Our countertops are 3/4" thick with a 3/4" build-down front edge. If you were not to use build-up strips, your front edge would hang
down over the cabinet drawers or doors. Build-up strips also provide support for your tops and attachment points from cabinets to tops.
Q - If my walls are out of square, do I need my countertops to be cut out of square as well?
A - If your walls are 1/2" or less out of square, simply sanding the scribe or back of the countertop to the contour of your walls will provide a
snug fit. If walls are more out of square, it may be necessary for you to use a loose backsplash to cover the gap between the back of the
tops and the wall.
• KETCHUP - Wipe up with a damp cloth. If the ketchup has dried, wash it off with mild detergent and warm water.
• CIGARETTE BURNS - Lit cigarettes allowed to remain on a decorative laminate surface could blister the surface or cause permanent
stains.
• COFFEE - Washes off with mild detergent. For dried coffee stains, repeat steps as needed.
• HEAT - Laminate surfaces are resistant to heat damage. However, prolonged exposure to high heat can cause blistering, staining, or
delamination.
• JUICES - Clean residue with mild detergent & water.
• GLUE - Apply Goo Gone to remove adhesives.
• MARKER/CRAYON - Wipe with a soft cloth with acetone.
INSTALLATION MISTAKES
Delaminated Countertops
• Failure to keep the countertop surface even with the surface of the range, could result in a delaminated
countertop.
• Heat will reactivate the glue, causing the end cap to come loose from the countertop. Failure to use waterproof
wood glue on miters can lead to countertops delaminating. Failure to install Dishwasher Moisture Barrier tape
when a dishwasher is present can lead to countertops delaminating.
Improperly Filed Edges
It is recommended that you use a slight 2° to 3° angle while ling. Misuse of hand le will result in scratches on
the laminate.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
COMMON STAINS
COUNTERTO P
COUNTERTO P
WRONGCORRECT
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
• To clean the surface, wash with a mild dish washing liquid or powdered detergent; add warm water. Use a soft dish cloth. Rinse with
warm water and dry with cloth. Water is generally all that is needed. A quick wipe will clean most stains.
• Extreme heat can permanently damage CustomCraft™ Laminate Countertops, always use a trivet or hot pad when placing hot items on
your countertop surface. These items include, but are not limited to, pots, pans, or crock-pots.
- Avoid cutting directly on Countertops, always use a cutting board.
• For stubborn spots, make a paste with baking soda and water. The paste will be slightly abrasive. Work carefully to keep from damaging
the surface you are cleaning. Dip a soft bristle brush into the paste to cover the bristles. Gently rub the spot with the brush, moving in
a circular motion and pressing very lightly. You may also use a Magic Eraser
®
stain remover following the manufacturer’s instructions for
stubborn stain.
• While contemporary laminate surfaces have durable nishes, you should not cut directly on the surface or lay any utensils warmer than
approximately 250°F on the countertop for extended periods of time. Hot pans and heat-producing appliances (such as electric griddles
and skillets), when set directly on the countertops, can damage the countertop. Always use a hot pad or a trivet.
INSTALLATION MISTAKES