The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
Built In Cabinets And Storage Walls
Demountable Music Wall SIMPLE, INTERCHANGEABLE PLYWOOD BOXES ON A LOW PLYWOOD TABLE HOLD RADIO, RECORD PLAYER, RECORDS AND TELEVISION SET. SPEAKER FOR THE ENTIRE SYSTEM IS HOUSED
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Applying Plastic To Counter Tops
MANY COUNTER DESIGNS HAVING OVERHANGING EDGES WILL LOOK BETTER IF THE thickness of the top is about 11/2 " rather than the usual thickness of 3/4". This width not only gives a better appearance, but the plastic, having twice the gluing area, is less apt to be affected by imperfections in application. A strip of plywood 3/4" x 1" glued and nailed to the under side as shown will produce this increased thickness.
Apply the plastic to the edges first. As plastic has a slight tendency to chip, cut the strip about 1/8 " wider than the total thickness of the edge so that there will be enough extra material for cleaning up after application. The extra material also makes possible the correction of small errors in positioning, for once two cemented surfaces have touched, no lifting is possible. The cutting of the plastic can be done most accurately with a straightedge clamped to the edge of a table or bench. Handsaws can be used, but the job is made easier and the cut is smoother if a portable electric saber saw or a portable electric circular saw is used. Always cut plastic with the finish face up except when using a portable electric circular saw.
Before applying any glue, make sure that all surfaces are clean and free from dust. A vacuum cleaner is useful for thorough dusting. The cement used should be an adhesive that bonds on contact, preferably that recommended or manufactured by the maker of the plastic. Apply the cement to the edges of the counter and to the back of the plastic with a brush. After the cement has dried, place the strips in position, taking care that the extra VB " is distributed on both edges. A block and hammer will help in pressing down the plastic and assuring a uniform bond.
Trim off the excess on the edges with an electric router or a hand block plane to re move the most of the plastic; then finish with a file.
