Combining kitchen worktops: A step-by-step guide.

In case you're up for some kitchen DIY, we've got you covered with our ultimate guide on the best way to join kitchen worktops. So, you've picked out the ideal worktop for your kitchen, how do you go about installing it? We recommend that you employ an experienced professional for the job, but if you're feeling confident with your advanced DIY skills, joining your worktops might be something you'd like to attempt.

Our comprehensive guide will take you through everything, step by step. Check out the relevant sections by clicking any of the links below.

Tools you will need for the job

Make sure you have the following tools before commencing the job:

• - Contact adhesive
• - Long and short wood screws
• - Masking tape
• - Notepad and pencil
• - Power drill
• - Power router and bits
• - Profiling jig
• - Screwdriver
• - Tape measure

• How do you join solid laminate worktops?

Joining two worktops is known as mitring (you can find a definition in our A to Z glossary). The toughest part of a worktop installation is creating perfectly clean joints that make the surface look like one big slab. If you find it difficult to achieve this, metal strips can be used to hide the joints, which is commonly seen on various types of worktop surface.

This is quite a precise task that takes a certain amount of time and patience to complete. While most people with DIY experience can get through it, we strongly suggest hiring a professional for the job.

The methods needed will vary based on the type of worktop you're handling; for instance, our first step-by-step guide for laminate worktops (detailed below) can also be used for hardwood worktops.

How to cut worktops

In most instances, you'll need to cut the worktops to size. Check out our guide to cutting kitchen worktops for full step-by-step instructions on how to do this.

Ensure that you are meticulous when it comes to measuring around the sink and hob the worktop is to be fitted around as these areas can be tricky to work with. Additionally, keep any worktop joints at least 100mm away from the sink. Hob cutouts should be 60mm from the back and 50mm from the front.

Use sandpaper to smooth out the cut edges once you've finished cutting the worktops.

How to join laminate or wood worktops – a step-by-step guide

Laminate and wooden worktops are the most preferred options for kitchens throughout the UK. While you may need to follow different instructions for different materials, we'll focus on these for the time being.

Step 1 – Fit and secure your first worktop

Start by picking a corner and working around it in a systematic manner.

At this stage, it is expected that your base units are already in place. Worktops are typically designed to overhang the cabinets slightly, so a support bar is included at the front and some form of bracket at the back, where the worktop will be drilled and fixed in place with screws.

If you have a gap between units, which may be required for appliances such as a washing machine or dishwasher, you will need to install a timber batten on the wall that is at least 20mm thick to support the worktop. These should be secured using the same technique as your base units.

Step 2—Joining the Worktops

In most kitchens, it is necessary to join two worktops together in a corner space, and this requires joining the joints using bolts. If you're joining a straight run of worktops, be sure to create a square cut. For corners, a cutting jig should be used, which helps you in creating the tie bolt pockets for the bolts as specified in the instructions.

Alternatively, aluminium joining strips can be used to achieve a streamlined joint between the worktops instead of filler.

Step 3—Positioning the Second Worktop

Now it is time to position the second worktop on top of the cabinets. It would be helpful to have someone hold it in place to prevent it from moving.

To secure the second worktop in place, follow the same process as the first worktop, drilling holes from the underside of the cabinet into the worktop, and then fixing it with screws. If an aluminium strip joint is needed, ensure proper alignment and make a mark for the correct fixing positions. Ensure you mark 2mm in diameter and drill 20mm deep into the worktop.

Apply silicone sealant along the cut edge, screw the aluminium strip into place using long countersunk wood screws measuring 16mm in length by 3.5mm in diameter. Ensure the removal of excess sealant with a damp cloth.

Step 4—Securing the Second Worktop

Finally, secure the worktop in place with countersunk wood screws that measure 16mm in length and 5mm in diameter—avoid overtightening.

When using a strip, add sealant on the cut edge of the worktop join before fastening them together. Butt one worktop against the other and then remove any excess sealant.

Follow the above steps to join worktops around your kitchen continuously.

If you find that you haven't achieved the perfect join, don't worry too much, as it requires a lot of skill and practice. Professionals are better at it, which is why you can always use filler that matches your worktop's color to cover any gaps, making it presentable and useable in the kitchen.

For compact laminate worktops, which tend to be thinner than standard laminate worktops, the instructions provided with the product should be followed.

Additional Kitchen DIY Advice

If you're considering fitting elements of your kitchen on your own, we highly recommend reading our associate guide on cutting worktops after going through this guide.

Here at Victoria Plum, we pride ourselves on providing an abundance of useful kitchen guidance. Our resources cover a wide range of topics, including purchasing guides, innovative concepts for kitchen design, and detailed assessments of the latest kitchen installation expenses. If you decide to opt for professional installation, we have got you covered.

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