There are not many among us who have not - at some time or another - tackled a home project ourselves in order to save money and maximize our renovation dollars. In some cases, this may have been a wise and successful decision that stretched our budget and allowed us to get the materials that we wanted at a fraction of the cost because of money saved on installation.

In the kitchen especially, there exists a bevy of opportunities for do-it-yourselfers to save money while still having the materials that they desire. Countertops, especially, offer a tool savvy homeowner the opportunity to tackle installation themselves - often saving thousands of dollars. Learning how to install countertops, of course, is the first step in a successful do-it-yourself project of this kind.

Any motivated do-it-yourselfer can learn how to install countertops in a short period of time. Luckily, the rise in comprehensive home improvement stores has given way to the in-store workshop where a number of projects are presented in a step-by-step instructional format.

It is always a safe bet to start here; not only will you learn from professionals about how to get the job done safely and right but you can be walked through the materials that you need to purchase to prepare for the job.

Working with laminates is the easiest countertop installation with which to begin. Flexible and easy to handle, laminates are the most commonly used countertop material in kitchens across the nation. Consumers often choose laminates for their cost, versatility, and durability.

In essence, laminates are a thin material made from plastic that is simply glued to a piece of plywood or particleboard. Laminates today come in an extensive variety of colors, styles, and textures; some styles are even made to replicate more expensive materials such as granite and ceramic tile.

The drawbacks to laminate include the material's vulnerability to moisture, heat, and scratches. Because the material adheres to plywood, any moisture that collects within it can cause warping and irreversible damage. Further, cutting directly on the surface is not advised as scratch marks can easily result; as can burn marks from placing hot plates or pans directly on the surface of the laminate.

Installing a laminate surface is the best way to learn how to install countertops as such installation can be accomplished quickly and easily. First and foremost, the existing countertop must be removed, cleaned, and dried thoroughly. Following this, the countertop must be properly prepared for a new laminate.

Sanding the existing countertop will "rough up" the material and provide a good surface to which the new laminate can adhere. Laminate glue is then applied to the surface of the countertop; this must be done as evenly as possible as any uneven glue will result in bubbling and a less than flush countertop surface.

The last thing you will learn in how to install countertops is the application of the laminate itself. Because the first contact is critical in obtaining the maximum adhesion, it is very important to make sure the laminate and the countertop are perfectly aligned. Using ¼” wooden dowels and at set intervals may prove to be helpful when properly lining up the laminate to the countertop.