- 1). Measure the base cabinets in the kitchen with a measuring tape. Write down the measurements on a piece of paper. The plywood will need to be cut flush with the ends of the countertop length unless they butt against appliances. Where the countertop meets an appliance area cut the plywood one inch short so there is room for cement backerboard and tiles. This is necessary because the backerboard is attached to the face (vertically) of the plywood and then tile pieces are installed on top of the backerboard.
- 2). Install 2-by-4 inch blocks along the insides of the base kitchen cabinets. Screw or glue the blocks to the inside and top of the cabinets. Use screws in unfinished areas of the cabinets (appliance side of cabinet) or apply the blocks with wood glue and clamps where the screws would ruin the finish of the cabinet. Let the glue dry per manufacturer directions. The plywood will be screwed directly into this blocking.
- 3). Mark the measurements on the plywood with a pencil or chalk line. Plan the layout so the plywood factory edge is on the front edge of the cabinets. The plywood edge should hang over the front edge of the cabinets by 3/4 inch. The layout should also correspond with the installed blocking on the cabinets. This allows you to place the joints in the plywood directly over blocking for extra strength.
- 4). Cut the plywood to size with a table or circular saw. Work slowly as you cut the plywood and be sure to wear safety glasses.
- 5). Screw the plywood into place on the blocks that are installed on the base cabinets with 1 5/8 inch screws.
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