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Inexpensive Solution for Kitchen Countertops

When you are looking for a quick, easy, and inexpensive solution for ugly or dated countertops, try using self-adhesive paper or film to give them a new look.

07/07/2022

 

 

 

 

Renovating or giving the kitchen a makeover has always been a top priority and even more so now with the Internet making it even more accessible for us to get ideas and tips for doing our own countertops. There are blogs and sites devoted to ideas for using countertop kits and paint to give kitchen countertops a new look. There is also the solution for using mosaic or tiles to cover kitchen countertops. And while these ideas are great, they still cost quite a bit of money to do. In this article, we offer an easy and inexpensive solution for your kitchen countertops, one that should only take about an hour or so to complete and won't cost you an arm or a leg. Plus, you get to choose from a selection of designs for your kitchen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A roll of self-adhesive paper costs around R40 for a 1-metre roll that is 450mm wide and is available at Builders' stores around the country or select hardware stores.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Apply Self-Adhesive Vinyl or Paper

This has to be the easiest and quickest way to give kitchen countertops a new look, but it needs to be installed properly if you want it to last. Follow these instructions for proper installation of both self-adhesive vinyl or paper.

 

  1. Countertops must be cleaned to remove ALL grease and grime as this will not allow the vinyl to stick properly to the surface.
  2. Make sure that the countertops are dry.
  3. Start at one end of the countertop and line up the edge of the roll with this. It is important that you roll on straight from the start or you will need to repeat the entire process.
  4. Peel back a corner of the backing and slowly roll this away underneath as you press the film onto the surface. Use a dense sponge to smooth away any trapped air, working from the centre outwards to the sides. If you need to, you can lift up the vinyl and re-situate if there are too many bubbles or wrinkles.
  5. Where there is a join, line up a new section so that the seam is almost invisible.
  6. Ensure that the edges are pressed down firmly.
  7. Trim away any excess with a sharp craft or utility knife.

 

 

 

 

A 10-metre roll of waterproof Marble self-adhesive vinyl film that is 610mm wide retails at R599 and gives you plenty to cover kitchen countertops - various design styles. Available at takealot.com.

 

 

 

 

Care for Vinyl-Wrapped Kitchen Countertops

It is important to keep in mind that you now have vinyl-wrapped countertops and these need to be treated with as much care as if they were painted. Follow the tips below to extend the life of your new countertops.

 

 

 

 

  • Use chopping blocks or always use cutting boards.
  • Do not put hot items directly onto the vinyl finish.
  • Make sure that all edges are firmly secured.
  • The countertops must be cleaned beforehand to remove all traces of grease and grime.
  • Surfaces must be absolutely dry before application.
  • Avoid any sharp items or items that may scratch the finish.
  • Line up the edges for a seamless finish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where Can you Use Self-Adhesive Vinyl, Film or Paper

Self-adhesive vinyl film or paper is not only great for kitchen countertops but you can use it on a variety of - cleaned - surfaces. Use on cupboards and cabinets for an instant update, apply to bathroom counters or dress up doors. It is versatile and affordable when compared to other solutions.

 

 

 

 

 

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