How to Install Plywood for a Countertop Base

Plywood is a material often used for kitchen countertops. However, the plywood is rarely noticed, because it is used as a base for tile countertops. When it is installed properly, the plywood base helps to support the countertop above. The plywood base is often the first layer of the countertop that is installed. Cement backerboard is screwed directly into the plywood, and tile is then installed on top of the cement backerboard.

2-by-4-inch boards
Wood glue
Masking tape
Measuring tape
Paper and pencil
3/4-inch sheet of plywood
Table saw
Safety glasses
Screwdriver
1 5/8-inch screws

Instructions

- 1
  Check the inside top of the base cabinets. If the cabinets have had laminate or tile countertops on them previously, they should have small wood mounting blocks on the inside top edges. Install mounting blocks on new cabinets by cutting small wooden blocks out of 2-by-4 inch boards. Apply wood glue to the blocks, and stick them in place on the inside of the cabinets. Tape the blocks in place until they dry.
- 2
  Use a measuring tape to measure the top area of the base cabinets. Have a friend help you take the measurements.
- 3
  Write down all of the measurements on a piece of paper and draw the countertop area so that you have a visual sketch of the kitchen countertops. Indicate on the drawings any area on the countertop that butts up against kitchen appliances. Subtract 1 inch from the measurements for every place where the countertops meet the appliances.
- 4
  Transfer the measurements to a 3/4-inch sheet of plywood with a chalk line. The factory edge of the plywood should always face the front edge of the cabinets.
- 5
  Trim the plywood sheet to the correct size with a table saw. Place the plywood on the saw. Recruit the help of a friend to catch the plywood as it is cut. When cutting the plywood, you and your friend should wear safety glasses.
- 6
  Place the plywood on the base cabinets. Screw the plywood into the mounting blocks with 1 5/8-inch screws.

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