Post form, Self edge, and Applied edge Laminate Countertops

There are two types of laminate countertops: Self Edge and Post Form. Here is the difference between the two, along with some pro’s and con’s of both.

Post Form
These types of countertops are manufactured by adhering laminate to a particle board substrate with a formed edges and/or backsplash. The laminate is rolled over to create a single, unbroken laminate face. These tops are pre-laminated in 8, 10, and 12 foot lengths at a postforming plant and shipped to a countertop fabricator. The fabricator then cuts the tops to size, cuts the necessary holes, and applies laminate end caps to the raw ends.

Advantages:
Integrated seamless splash
Decorative edge treatments (seamless)
Usually least expensive option for laminate

Disadvantages:
Will not work for all applications
Mitered corners (butt joints) have potential for moisture intrusion
Integrated backsplash do not form to walls that bow or are out of square

Other considerations:
Cuts are made at 45 degree angles. Putting a 25″ kitchen section together with a 36″ pennisula will leave 11″ of top in the back corner without a splash.

Ends of all runs are square. Post form tops can not be rolled on a front and a side. Notice in the picture the roll on one side and square on the end.

Self Edge
Self edge tops are custom made countertops. Self edge tops are also very popular for those who chose to have few or no surface seams. These tops have particle board as a substrate and sheets of laminate are adhered with contact adhesive. Since self edge tops are custom made, they can be made to fit any unique configuration. Curves, notches, angles, etc. are possible using self edge tops.

Advantages:
Tops can be made out of square
Seams are fewer (laminate sheet goods come as large as 5’X12′)
Separate splashes hide bows in walls

Disadvantages:
Brown line on front edge where face and horizontal edge meets
Potential moisture issue between splash and countertop (if not installed correctly)

Additional Considerations:
Fancier edge treatments are becoming more and more available. Beveled edges, ogee edges, and curved edges can be an alternative for a self edge top.

If you are concerned about moisture intrusion getting into the splash or even the substrate, a plywood core is always a potential option. Plywood splashes will, most times, prevent significant swelling of the substrate.