Placing countertops firmly on adjoining walls can be a bit tricky, but following these tips will ensure a precise fit on a wall or even a cabinet. Some countertops come with a backsplash attached to the countertop, while others have a separate backsplash. On countertops with an attached backsplash, it is usually constructed to allow the backsplash to be trimmed where it meets the wall. Let’s take a look at this fitting method called “tracing”. A scribe is like a compass with a pencil on one side and a metal point on the other. It is also used to draw circles.
To precisely explain this method we must use an example of how the hob is oriented. I will use for the example a countertop that abuts a wall on the left side and of course the length of the back. We will write the ending first. Measure the length of the cabinets from left to right and add ½ inch to that dimension. After measuring, mark the dimension on the countertop. Apply masking tape (across the width of the countertop) where the mark is.
Place the top of the cabinets and push the countertop back as far as it touches the wall at the back of the cabinets. Measure from the front of the cabinets to the front of the counter at each end. Make this dimension the same at each end and push the countertop until it touches the far left wall. The countertop should be parallel to the face of the cabinets.
Set the strokes to the dimension that you previously marked the countertop on the wall. Keep the strokes as vertical as possible and mark the line across the width of the countertop on the masking tape. Do the same process on the back of the counter. Now, place the countertop on a pair of sawhorses and begin cutting the top about 1/8 “from the line on the waste side. Angling the circular saw at a slight angle called an undercut will allow the next step to be done without problems.
After cutting, use a belt sander with a rough belt and sand down to the line. Remove the rest of the masking tape and attach it. The countertop may require a bit to adjust, so repeat the above process but skip using the circular saw. Install the countertop with these screws and caulk the edges if necessary.