covering an existing kitchen worktop....

[trixie69]

Does anyone have any useful suggestions as to how I cover an existing laminate kitchen worktop? I've thought of tiling over it, but am wondering if there's some sort of more modern (and easier to do myself) type product? Like some sort of stainless steel covering, or basically anything heat-proof that comes in sheet form! Can anyone help?? Thankyou!!

[rabbitygirl]

New laminate tops are probably the cheapest part of a kitchen so price up how much these would be from DIY shop (inc someone to fit). A new look quite cheaply here. Is your kitchen quality? There are companies out there who cover your existing worktop with granite or granite like composite. This is more costly. Personally dont like tile tops - like my kitchen to be hygeinic and think these are dirt traps and maybe old hat. Metal fabricator could make and fit s/steel sheet to your tops but make sure this look goes with everything else. Doors can be done too but dont go too clinical. No worktop likes having v hot dishes put on them - always have plenty of pan stands and chopping boards to keep any top A1.

[parkesquay]

I agree with trixie. Assuming that you have help then changing the worktop is probably the cheapest solution. There are some very good tops in B&Q that look just like granite,from �60 for a 3 metre(10ft) length.
However purchasing is the easy part because these tops are heavy hence the physical labour bit. Also of course you may need to cut a template for a sink so some power tools may also be needed.
I think the real problem that you may have with some sort of 'fablon' cover as you have already stated is that it almost certainly won't be resistant to heat or to marking or a careles knife cut. So going to all the trouble to cover it would,in my opinion,be false economy. Similarly if you tile over you are going to have serious height and gap issues in the sink area. Not a good idea or a neat solution(only my opinion)as the tiles would require special cutting to fit.