Modular Counter Top Manual - Page 3

SEAMING

STEP 1:
Using a straight edge guide and router (with a 3/4" x 2" carbide router bit) cut a smooth straight line on both pieces where seam is to be joined. A dull router bit can cause a white fracture line.

STEP 2:
Dry fit pieces together to desired shape. Notice that you do not have a gap of more than 1/32" 'in seam area on most colors. Pastel colors are more sensitive to perfection.

STEP 3:
Replace template (or recheck measurements) for a good fit. Once this is achieved, remove template and slide pieces apart. Now you are ready to clean and sterilize your seam.

STEP 4:
Make sure your seam and seam area are clear of all debris, such as dust, tools, and other material. Seams can be cleaned with a clean white rag or towel and a chemical solvent such as acetone, or a lacquer thinner / denatured alcohol combination. Acetone is a one step cleaner where as lacquer denatured/alcohol is a two step; thinner first, then alcohol to remove the oily film left behind by the lacquer thinner, which may prevent a good bond. Clean ALL seams thoroughly, more than once. Remember, you can NEVER clean a seam too much.

STEP 5:
Now that your seam is prepped and clean, set up your clamping procedures which best suits the situation. "EL" shape seams are usually pulled with bar clamps. Angled seams are usually pulled with large 4" to 6" spring clamps, or with a suction cup system. The spring clamp procedure requires the use of hot glue and wood blocks (one across from the other on both sides of seam, spaced about every 8" to 10" 'in length of seam).

STEP 6:
Mixing and gluing - There are (2) different methods of gluing: (A) Using retain or (B) using joint adhesive. "Retain" is the most preferred because it is actual color matching liquid counter top which gives you a chemical bond. Adhesive is a comparable color match and gives you a mechanical bond. The adhesive comes in a packet and cartridge form, mixed by hand, or dispensed by a gun. All "retain" must be mixed thoroughly upon the first use, then a quick mix every (2) hours while in use to insure good match ability. After mixing retain, using a (4) oz plastic or white paper cup, pour in amount desired. Stir in (3) - (5) cc's(12 drops= Icc) of catalyst per (2) oz of retain. This will set up in (3) to (5) minutes, depending on room temperature. Average room temp. to be about 75°F. The retain will cure to a workable state in about (1) hour. The adhesive will set up in about (10) minutes and cure to a workable state in about (30) to (40) minutes. Keep in Mind that when using a heat reactive glue of any kind will cure faster 'in hotter temperatures, and slower 'in colder temperatures. The best way to tell if the glue has fully cared is when a putty knife cannot penetrate the surface of the glue by more than 1/16".

STEP 7:
CLAMPING - Apply glue to seam area and clamp accordingly. Careful not to over tighten your bar clamps or suction cups. This will cause the glue to be literally squeezed out of the joint causing it not to bond together. Large spring clamps seem to work the best 'in most seaming application& After clamping, quickly check the seam for level with a small rubber mallet and putty knife. This will make it easier to sand out. Scrape the excess off in the rubber state to speed the sanding process.