Post by Tom Gensmer on Dec 29, 2014 16:37:50 GMT -5
Hi Gang!
Well, this is one of those tasks that seems to pop up periodically. As part of a larger project, or simply a one-of task, I periodically have found myself installing countertops for customers, either the thick, butcher-block style (typically from Ikea), or post-formed laminate. On the one-hand, I generally prefer to refer this type of work to specialized countertop installers, there are frequently times when, for the purposes of time, scheduling, and general OCD reservations, it works out that I am the installer. In the past (before I knew any better), I would install peninsular countertops with a combination of Domino tenons, Kreg screws, glue, patience, and varying degrees of frustration.
After viewing many videos, I've observed that many counter top installers utilize either home-made or prefab jigs for joining their tops at right angles. These jigs seem to serve two functions: 1. Use the router to cut a small miter and straight joint to join the countertops, and 2. route recesses in the underside of the countertop for installation of undermount countertop connectors. After poking around Amazon for a few minutes I came up with a few options, but wanted to see what input you guys might have. It is not my intention to buy anything right now just to have it, rather I'd like to know ahead of time what products I may want should the opportunity/obligation to install a counter top arise again.
Trend seems to make two different jigs, one seems more fully featured, the other is a little pared down, but I can't tell much other than that.
Trend Combi66: www.amazon.com/Trend-COMBI66-Kitchen-Countertop-Jig/dp/B001UQ5PBW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419886194&sr=8-1&keywords=Trend+COMBI66
Trend Combi600: www.amazon.com/Trend-Combi600-Worktop-Jig-600/dp/B003830V14/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_8?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QXDESDTEGKA8JZNBTC8
There also seems to be a Faithfull brand with several offerings:
Faithfull KWJMK4: www.amazon.com/Faithfull-KWJMK4-Kitchen-Worktop-Pegs/dp/B001OXFHP0/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=16JY9VT81V89FJ820MM7
Faithfull KWJPRO: www.amazon.com/Faithfull-KWJPRO-Kitchen-Worktop-Professional/dp/B000Y8JR3E/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1SS14JEWZRSNNAT74KYQ
Also, am I incorrect in thinking that these jigs could be modified to wrap the edges of solid hardwood stair treads? Any input is much appreciated, thanks!!
Best,
Tom
Well, this is one of those tasks that seems to pop up periodically. As part of a larger project, or simply a one-of task, I periodically have found myself installing countertops for customers, either the thick, butcher-block style (typically from Ikea), or post-formed laminate. On the one-hand, I generally prefer to refer this type of work to specialized countertop installers, there are frequently times when, for the purposes of time, scheduling, and general OCD reservations, it works out that I am the installer. In the past (before I knew any better), I would install peninsular countertops with a combination of Domino tenons, Kreg screws, glue, patience, and varying degrees of frustration.
After viewing many videos, I've observed that many counter top installers utilize either home-made or prefab jigs for joining their tops at right angles. These jigs seem to serve two functions: 1. Use the router to cut a small miter and straight joint to join the countertops, and 2. route recesses in the underside of the countertop for installation of undermount countertop connectors. After poking around Amazon for a few minutes I came up with a few options, but wanted to see what input you guys might have. It is not my intention to buy anything right now just to have it, rather I'd like to know ahead of time what products I may want should the opportunity/obligation to install a counter top arise again.
Trend seems to make two different jigs, one seems more fully featured, the other is a little pared down, but I can't tell much other than that.
Trend Combi66: www.amazon.com/Trend-COMBI66-Kitchen-Countertop-Jig/dp/B001UQ5PBW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419886194&sr=8-1&keywords=Trend+COMBI66
Trend Combi600: www.amazon.com/Trend-Combi600-Worktop-Jig-600/dp/B003830V14/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_8?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QXDESDTEGKA8JZNBTC8
There also seems to be a Faithfull brand with several offerings:
Faithfull KWJMK4: www.amazon.com/Faithfull-KWJMK4-Kitchen-Worktop-Pegs/dp/B001OXFHP0/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=16JY9VT81V89FJ820MM7
Faithfull KWJPRO: www.amazon.com/Faithfull-KWJPRO-Kitchen-Worktop-Professional/dp/B000Y8JR3E/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1SS14JEWZRSNNAT74KYQ
Also, am I incorrect in thinking that these jigs could be modified to wrap the edges of solid hardwood stair treads? Any input is much appreciated, thanks!!
Best,
Tom