Expert: Jamie Yocono - 1/18/2007

Question
I refinish countertops and I'd like to be able to round off a 90 degree edge before refinishing.  I know I can use a 1/2 round router bit, but what about the ends where the counter top meets a wall, or a 90 degree turn on the countertop, where the router won't get in?  Is there any other kind of tool I can use for this?

Answer
Hey Barry,

I know exactly the dilemma you are talking about!  I've been in that situation a few times, it's a pain.

I have two or three suggestions-

The first, obviously, is a simple one- if you can pull the countertop off, you'll be able to get to those situations where the counter meets the wall. Sorry, I know you probably know that already, but I thought I would state the obvious.

Next, the base of your router is probably about a 6" circle. That's why they make laminate trimmers, which are basically routers with miniature bases (usually 3" square) - perfect for getting pretty close into those tight corners. So the second option is to switch to a laminate trimmer and you'll be able to get pretty close. If the base is 3", the router bit will be centered, and will only be about an inch and a half from the corner. That's better than 3", which is what you're at now, with that big router base.

Last suggestion- get as close as you can, and then finish up the last part (that the router can't reach) with a file and/or a handplane. A fine file won't do the trick (too much work) and a rough one will tear everything up, so you need one that's more or less in the middle, teeth wise.

You mentioned an inside corner- I always use a file in those situations, there really isn't any alternative, as far as I know. I think one of those laminate trimmers/routers will actually hold a 1/8" shank bit, and I believe I've seen a roundover bit with that small of a shank. That would get you even close into one of those inside corners. You wouldn't have much to clean up, if you used a bit that size.

Sounds like your best bet might be to buy one of those laminate trimmers. Porter Cable sells one for about $100. They're pretty sweet. Heck, if you sign up for an Amazon credit card, they'll knock another $25 off the cost, so you can get one for about $75, and no shipping. Whattaya want?!

OK, hope this helps, let me know if I can help you out with anything else. I'm curious- what do you refinish the countertops with that would require a roundover? I've been pondering that since I read your question. Hope you get a chance to write back and tell me more.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com