Q: I bought a prefab laminate countertop with backsplash, but the wall behind it is slightly uneven. How do I install it so there’s no space between the wall and the countertop?
A: Professional carpenters usually scribe the counter to the wall. This requires a compass and pencil. Slide the backsplash against the wall. Then adjust so the front edge of the countertop is parallel to the cabinets. Set the compass so its point and the tip of the pencil are equal to the widest space between the wall and the backsplash. Run the compass along the wall to transfer the contour of the wall to the top of the backsplash. Use a handheld belt sander to sand the rear of the backsplash to the scribe line. Test the fit and scribe any adjustments as necessary.
