BetaB4 wrote:
I have an apartment that I will be renting out that is being
remodeled. The kitchen will have a pre-made Lowes post-formed
Formica countertop.
However, there is a half-wall divider between the living room and
kitchen and I want put a small countertop on top of the divider. The
countertop will be about 2 feet by 4 feet, and it will have a round
end. So, it needs to be custom made. This countertop will sit on
top of the divider wall and it will overhang past the wall about 12
to 16 inches, and I will put a couple of bar stools next to it.

Since it will be an overhang that people may lean on, I want to be
sure it is fairly strong.

Typically, I think the way people make laminate countertops is to put
two sheets of 3/4 inch partical board together and install the
laminate on top of that and on the sides.

No, just one thickness is normal.
____________

I was thinking of maybe
using two pieces of 3/4 inch plywood instead for greater strength.
However, I have heard that new plywood can sometimes "cup" or curve a
little as it dries out, so I am wondering if that may be a problem.

No, it should already be dry. If you want to use two thicnesses, just glue
and screw together. Use yellow carpenter's glue. Use decent plywood
too...not the low grade fir from Home Depot; birch from there or luan or
virola would be OK.
__________

Particle board doesn't do this as far as I know.

So, any thoughts on whether it's okay to use plywood for more
strength or would I be better off using particle board?

You are better off using plywood, one thickness or two. Since there is a
considerable overhang, be sure it is *very* firmly attached to the divider.

--

dadiOH
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