How to attach to formica?

[maximovies]

When we ordered our manufactured home, we ordered formica countertops with the idea that in a few years, when we can afford it, we'll upgrade to corian or granite. But for now, it's a formica top and formica front edge with a 90 degree edge in front.

My problem is that, because I use a wheelchair, I have to lean my forearms on that sharp edge all the time and it's hurting like hell. (We lowered the breakfast bar to 30", and the bathroom counter is also around that I think.) So I went to Lowes and picked up 3/4 round. I don't think that's what they call it, but I hope you know what I mean.

It's already finished and almost matches my cabinets. But how do I attach it? Nail it into the formica? Screw it in? Glue it? (I have a glue gun that I use for crafts.) Some other way?

For now, I have a small piece (black gaffers) taped in the bathroom to test it. What a difference. No more pain when I have to lean on the edge to brush my teeth. So how do I make it permanent? We'll be measuring and buying enough to do the whole job nicely including mitering the corners.

Thanks for any help.

Maxi

[Edwin Pawlowski]

I'd use construction adhesive, the run a bead of silicone for a sealer. .

You may want to consider having hte front edge beveled. While it may cost more, there will be a clean edge, making counter cleaning easier. I have no idea of hte cost, but the edge would be beveled, a strip of Formica laid in and trimmed. I'd guess that a kitchen shop could give you a ball part estimate of the job to see if it is something you'd want to pursue.

[Frank Warner]

Too bad it's almost finished. I would have recommended screws through the wood to the formica substrate, along with a good adhesive. You would countersink the screws, plug the holes with wood dowels, sand smooth, then finish.

I don't like the idea of adhesive alone for this job. At the very least, some 4-6d finishing nails driven into pilot holes through the edging into the formica. Set the nail heads and conceal them with matching furniture grade wax stick.

You should also be aware that wooden edging like this will expand and contract, probably a lot because of the moisture found in bathrooms & kitchens. Even sealed wood may buckle, check or crack after a while.

Not saying it isn't a great way to solve the problem, only that it isn't perfect.

-Frank

[Norminn]

I would try contact cement. Follow instructions on label. Once the two pieces touch, after cement applied and dry, they are bonded so careful placement is necessary.