How to Surface a Countertop With Countertop Transformations

Are you looking to transform your outdated or damaged countertops into a fresh, modern look? Countertop resurfacing with Countertop Transformations is an affordable and convenient way to revamp your kitchen or bath without a full replacement. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to surface a countertop using Countertop Transformations products.

What is Countertop Transformations?

Countertop Transformations is a leading provider of countertop resurfacing products and services. Their patented resurfacing system allows you to resurface existing laminate, solid surface, and even tile countertops with a durable new surface in as little as one day.

Here are some key things to know about Countertop Transformations:

It provides high-quality engineered quartz countertop surfaces that are customized to your countertop dimensions.
The resurfacing process bonds a new surface right over your existing countertop.
There is minimal demolition required and no need to replace countertops.
Installation typically takes just 1-2 days and your kitchen remains functional during the process.
The results are stunningly beautiful, glossy countertops that look and function like natural stone.
Surfaces are low-maintenance and resistant to scratches, stains and heat up to 350°F.
Available in 50+ colors/patterns to match any décor.

Benefits of Resurfacing with Countertop Transformations

There are many benefits to resurfacing your outdated or damaged countertops with Countertop Transformations rather than replacing them.

Saves Money

Much more affordable than natural stone or quartz countertop replacement.
Average kitchen resurfacing costs $2,000-$5,000 compared to $4,000-$12,000 for replacement.

Quick & Easy

Installs in just 1-2 days with no demolition.
No need to remove old countertop surface.
Kitchen remains fully functional during installation.

Durable & Low-Maintenance

Surfaces resist scratches, stains, and heat up to 350°F.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Won’t chip or crack like natural stone.
Comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

Wide Range of Colors & Finishes

Choose from 50+ colors and patterns.
Get an authentic natural stone or quartz look.
Matte, satin, and high-gloss finish options.

Eco-Friendly

Repurposes existing countertops instead of sending them to landfills.
Made from recycled materials.

How Does Countertop Transformations Work?

Countertop Transformations uses a patented resurfacing technology to transform your existing countertops into beautiful, durable surfaces. Here is an overview of how their countertop resurfacing process works:

1. Prepare the Existing Countertop Surface: Any built-up grime or residue is cleaned off and small dings or chips are repaired to create a smooth surface.
2. Apply Molding & Trim: Molding is installed around the edges to define the new countertop shape. Any backsplashes or trim accents are also installed.
3. Apply Adhesive & Smoothing Compound: A strong bonding adhesive is applied over the entire surface, followed by a smoothing compound.
4. Install New Countertop Surface: The new engineered quartz countertop surface is custom cut to size and securely bonded to the existing surface.
5. Finish Edges & Clean: The countertop edges are finished to perfection and any excess material is cleaned off.
6. Seal & Protect: A protective sealer is applied to shield against stains and scratches.

Once finished, you have a stunning new countertop surface installed without the long construction process and high cost of countertop replacement.

What Supplies are Needed?

One of the benefits of Countertop Transformations is that they provide all the proprietary resurfacing products and materials you need to complete the project. Here are the main items they supply:

Engineered quartz countertop sheets in your choice of color/finish
Countertop adhesive
Flexible edge molding
Smoothing compound
Seam adhesive
Protective sealer
Abrasives for preparing surface
Tools for trimming and installing countertops

You don’t need to source any specialty products on your own. However, you may want to have basic safety gear on hand:

Work gloves
Safety glasses
Dust mask
Ear protection

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Now let’s go through the full process step-by-step for resurfacing countertops with Countertop Transformations.

Step 1: Planning & Removal

First, thoroughly measure your existing countertops and create a detailed installation plan. This includes:

Measure length, width and any inside/outside corners precisely.
Sketch the overall countertop layout with all measurements.
Identify any special edge treatments like backsplashes or accent trim.
Determine which seams will be visible and plan bottom support accordingly.
List all materials and tools needed.

Once your installation plan is complete, remove any existing backsplashes or countertop-mounted appliances that will interfere with installation.

Step 2: Surface Preparation

Prepping the surface is crucial for proper adhesion of the new surface. Here’s how to prepare:

Remove all surface debris, grease, soap residue with degreasing cleaners.
Sand the entire surface lightly with 80-120 grit sandpaper to remove glossiness.
Fill any chips, cracks, or pits with smoothing compound and let dry completely.
Sand again with 150-220 grit after drying to ensure a perfectly smooth surface.
Wipe clean with a dry cloth to remove all dust.

Proper surface prep allows the adhesive and new surface material to bond tightly.

Step 3: Edge Preparation

Edge preparation involves installing the flexible molding strips around all exposed countertop edges:

Measure and cut molding strips to fit around the front, back, and any exposed sides.
Test fit moldings and make any adjustments for tight, secure fits.
Remove any old caulk or adhesive from all seams. Ensure they are clean and dry.
Apply seam adhesive to the backside of moldings.
Press molding firmly into place along all seams and hold for 30 seconds.
Use small nails if needed to secure molding during drying.
Let adhesive dry completely before the next steps.

Step 4: Apply Adhesive Base Coat

With surfaces prepped, it’s time to apply the adhesive base layer:

Pour adhesive evenly onto countertops, spreading it smoothly across the entire surface with a trowel.
Extend adhesive 2” up any backsplashes or sidewalls needing resurfacing.
Use a paintbrush for hard to reach areas like corners or edges.
Spread adhesive evenly to the recommended thickness of 1/8”.
Allow adhesive layer to dry completely according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

The adhesive base coat will bond strongly to the sanded surface to hold the new material.

Step 5: Install Countertops

Once the base layer has dried, carefully install the new engineered quartz countertops:

Unroll countertop sheets and allow them to settle before cutting (to prevent cracking).
Place the countertop sheet upside down on a flat surface.
Measure and mark cutting lines per your installation plan.
Use a circular saw with fine tooth blade to cut countertop sheets. Make multiple shallow passes for clean cuts.
Test fit all cut countertop pieces to ensure proper fit.
Apply adhesive to underside of countertops per manufacturer instructions.
Carefully place cut countertop pieces in position and press down firmly.
Use seam adhesive and tap shims to align pieces and fill any slight gaps at seams.
Hold pieces firmly in place with painter’s tape as needed while adhesive dries initially.
Remove all tape after adhesive has dried.

Step 6: Finish Edges

The edges where your countertop pieces meet require some finesse to finish properly:

Sand any rough or uneven edges flush using 100-150 grit sandpaper.
Fill any remaining gaps wider than 1/16” with adhesive or smoothing compound. Allow to fully dry.
For visible seams, use seam adhesive and tap shims every 6” to align edges perfectly flush.
Sand all seams and edges again with 220-400 grit paper for an ultra smooth finish.
Remove all sanding dust with a dry cloth.

Step 7: Seal & Protect Surface

The final step is applying a protective sealant to shield your fresh countertop surface:

Use isopropyl alcohol to clean and prepare the entire surface.
Apply two coats of penetrating sealant using a foam applicator or soft cloth.
Let dry fully between coats according to product guidelines.
Buff with a clean soft cloth to remove any excess and polish to desired finish.
Avoid using or cleaning counters for 24 hours to allow sealer to cure properly.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about resurfacing countertops with Countertop Transformations:

What types of countertops can be resurfaced?

Countertop Transformations can resurface existing surfaces like laminate, cultured marble, ceramic tile, granite, Corian, and concrete. The existing surface needs to be in good structural condition with no serious damage.

How long does installation take?

The typical installation timeline is just 1-2 days. Your kitchen remains fully usable except during the actual installation time. Some additional time may be needed if you are also replacing sinks or faucets.

Can I install it myself or do I need a professional?

Countertop Transformations provides detailed DIY installation instructions and technical support. However, professional installation is recommended for best long-term results and to have an expert handle any challenges.

How seamless are the countertop seams?

The product installs as seamlessly as possible, but some minimal seams will exist between pieces. These are smoothed and finished to be barely noticeable.

What edge treatments and backsplashes can I do?

You have lots of options for built-up edges and custom backsplashes. Molding strips allow edges to be squared, rounded, chamfered, ogeed, and more. Tile or mirrored backsplashes can also be incorporated.

Can you resurface bathroom countertops and sinks too?

Yes, their process works equally well for bathroom vanity countertops. Integrated sinks can often be resurfaced along with the countertop surface.

Will my countertop edges still be sharp after resurfacing?

Yes, the flexible moldings recreate the same profile of your existing edges. The finishing process includes re-sharpening edges to restore crisp 90-degree corners.

Conclusion

Resurfacing your outdated or damaged countertops using Countertop Transformations’ products is an easy and affordable way to restore your surfaces to a like-new condition. Their engineered quartz material installs right over your existing countertops in just 1-2 days. With proper planning and careful installation, you can revive your countertops with dramatic results. Just follow the steps we covered for preparing, installing, and finishing your new countertop surfaces. In no time, you can enjoy beautiful, durable countertops that look like they were completely replaced.