Skip to main content
Bunnings

Sign in or sign up

No Bunnings account? Sign up
or
PowerPass customer?
Visit the dedicated trade website

Project list

Sign in to your account

Our Price Guarantee

How to cut laminate benchtop

A person cutting a laminated benchtop with a saw

Overview

When you install a benchtop in your kitchen it becomes the centrepiece, so you want to get it right. We show you how to measure and cut it to size properly. You'll also see how to help protect the laminate from chipping when you cut it and a great way to make sure your cut is straight.

Steps

1Measure the cut point on your laminate benchtop

Place the benchtop in position on the kitchen cabinets and measure how much it hangs over the end. The overhang for a benchtop is normally about 40mm. If your overhang is more than that, it's worth giving it a trim. Subtract 40mm from the length of your current overhang and mark that distance on the wall end of your bench.
A person measuring a laminated benchtop

2Cut through the laminate benchtop

Place masking tape over the top of the cut line to protect the laminate from chipping. Then turn the benchtop over and mark the cut line on the underside of the bench. Use your spirit level to make sure your cut is straight. Clamp it next to your line, set back as far from the line as the edge of the base plate on your saw is from the saw blade. Then cut your benchtop and the job is done.
A person cutting a laminated benchtop with a saw

3Ready to install your benchtop?

Check out our video on how to install a laminate benchtop.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.