Are you tired of staring at scratches and chips on your old kitchen worktop? You need to do something, but your home improvement budget is only about £50. Can you cover up the damaged surface? Applying a worktop wrap may be the perfect solution.

In this post, I’ll explain what a worktop wrap is, how to apply one to your kitchen worktops as well as answer some common questions around the topic.

Let’s get into it!

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What Is Kitchen Worktop Wrap?

Kitchen worktop wrap is a self-adhesive vinyl sheet. It is designed to look like a marble, granite, or wood countertop, but costs a fraction of the price and can be installed in an afternoon. It’s like an instant makeover for your kitchen in a roll of film.

How Do You Wrap A Kitchen Worktop?

Kitchen worktop wrap is a fabulous DIY project. It requires no serious skills or specialised tools. All you need is some patience, a roll of wrap, and a free weekend when the kitchen will not be used.

Quick How-To Steps for Wrapping Your Worktop

You will need enough wrap to cover the entire length of the worktop. If you have a splashback, take that into consideration. You will likely be wrapping the splashback after you are done with the worktop. Plan for an extra half-meter of length and 15 cm of width to allow for adjustments.

Tools required: measuring tape, scissors, sharp safety blade, squeegee, hairdryer, and silicone sealant.

How To Wrap Your Kitchen Worktop

1. Clear the counter of everything and scrub it clean. Make sure it is dry and free of dust.
2. Measure out the length wrap needed to cover the worktop in a single sheet. Avoid creating seams.
3. Leave a little extra around every edge, so you can trim it precisely later and avoid any gaps at the wall.
4. Peel the backing off a little at a time and press into place.
5. Start at one end, not in the middle.
6. Use the squeegee to work out bubbles as you go.
7. Take your time. Rushing will lead to the film sticking to itself or creating huge bubbles that are difficult to work out.
8. If you see a major mistake, simply pull up the wrap and start over.
9. Slice an “X” in the film to fit it over your taps. Make the hole just big enough. You will go back to do the detail work. (Expert tip: Remove the taps before starting for a more professional appearance.)
10. Cover the sink with vinyl for now. You will go back and cut out that part later.
11. Once you have the worktop wrapped, use a hairdryer on the edges to soften the film. Pull the vinyl firmly to create a formfitting wrap around the edges. Press into place.
12. Go back with your utility knife and cut away the excess wrap around the taps and sink.
13. Inspect the surface for any small bubbles. If they cannot be smoothed out with the squeegee, prick the bubble with a pin and press it down.
14. Once you are satisfied with your work, do not use the worktop for 24 hours to let the adhesive cure and seal.
15. Apply silicone caulk around the sink and along the wall edges to prevent water from getting beneath the wrap.
16. You are done!

How Long Will It Take To Wrap A Worktop?

Applying the wrap should only take an hour or two. It may take longer based on the size and intricacy of the project. Corners and countertop cutouts will slow you down.

The time consumer is waiting for it to cure once the wrap is applied. So, you should set aside two days for cleaning, applying, and curing.

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Cost Of Worktop Wrap

The wrap is sold in standard 67.5 cm and 90 cm widths and lengths starting at two meters. A two-meter roll can sell as low as £7 and run up to about £20 for a more premium product.

The goal is to avoid seams in the middle of your worktop, so make sure to buy a roll that is at least as long as your counter. Buy separate rolls for the island and the L.

Check out these worktop wrap options on Amazon

Is Vinyl Wrap Good For Worktops?

There are positives and negatives to using vinyl wrap on a worktop. It is an inexpensive option compared to replacing the worktop, and you are helping the planet by keeping an old worktop out of the landfill. It freshens up the room, too. While you need to clear the counter to apply the wrap, there is no need to evacuate the kitchen completely. Applying a worktop wrap can be a great idea if you are planning on a complete remodel in a few years but want to quickly change the look of your kitchen in the meantime.

However, It is not meant as a long-term solution. It can scratch and tear. Heat can cause it to bubble and if water gets under the vinyl, it can release the adhesive causing the wrap to peel away.

Is Kitchen Worktop Wrap Heat Resistant?

Yes and no. Vinyl wrap is heat-resistant up to 75C, so you can place a warm plate on the counter but not a hot pot or pan straight out of the oven. Excessive heat will cause the adhesive to soften, creating bubbles in the vinyl. It is wise to use trivets to keep all your hot pots off the worktop.

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Final Thoughts…

There you have! Everything you need to know about kitchen worktop wraps.

Whilst they may not be a permanent worktop upgrade or as strong as the granite and quartz they mimic, applying a worktop wrap can be a quick and cost-effective way to breathe new life into an old kitchen.

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