How to remove glued laminate countertops?

[dinotheo]

Hi all, I am prepping my kitchen for the install of granite countertops. I am removing the laminate countertops myself and for the most part I am not really too concerned, except for one part. Most of my countertops appear to just be screwed down. I have an "upper" area of countertop that is at bar height. This part of the countertop is 18" deep and sits on a 2x6 framed half wall. I pulled the trim off and it looks like this countertop is attached with some sort of construction adhesive (brown and looks like liquid nails). Can anyone give me some pointers on how I can go about removing this countertop? This stuff is really strong I can hang on the ledge and it doesn't even budge.

Thanks, Dino

[DanG]

You need to verify that any and all screws are removed. You need to break the glue bond. Remove all drawers and stuff so you have access to the bottom of the top. Strike upwards with a heavy hammer/sledge. I have had to use crowbars, chisels, sawzalls, etc. It can be flat amazing how much a little adhesive and caulk will hold. Chop the top into little pieces before you hurt the bulkheads or face frames if you are planning to re use the cabinets. Most installers use a bit of silicone as it is fairly easy to remove rather than construction adhesive.

[dinotheo]

Dan, No kidding. That adhesive is amazing.....I am beat...I finally got it off with only a little damage to the 2x6 top plate.

I used a circular saw to trim the countertop to 6" wide (the same as the 2x6 top plate). I then used a reciprocating saw and pry bar to get it up. That particular countertop was angled. Luckily only the angled piece was glued. The other part was screwed. The 2x6 is a little chewed up (not too bad though) in a couple of spots. I will fill in the couple of spots where some of the 2x6 splintered off with wood epoxy. Now I need to remove a cooktop, sink and backsplashes and the rest of my countertops....(Luckily they are just screwed)

Dino