Washer-Dryer Topper Provides Folding Room
Do you ever wish you had more room to fold and organize laundry? Installing a countertop above your front-loading washer and dryer can provide that extra space you've been looking for. This practical upgrade instantly gives you additional storage, folding and sorting capacity, and convenience right in the laundry area.
You'll learn about different countertop materials to use, building a sturdy support framework, customizing with handy features like storage cabinets, and how to construct a removable design for easy access behind machines.
Choose Countertop Materials Strong Enough to Span Machines
The first decision will be choosing a suitable countertop material with enough rigidity to bridge your washer and dryer without sagging. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Plywood - Stained plywood makes an inexpensive countertop material and can be finished with a protective sealant.
- Plywood with Laminate - Adding a laminate veneer to plywood gives a more finished look resistant to moisture.
- Quartz - For a high-end finished appearance, quartz makes a durable and stylish countertop.
- Other Solid Surfaces - Materials like Corian or Silestone can also work well spanning laundry appliances.
Weather-Resistant and Low-Maintenance Materials
Laundry rooms tend to have high humidity and potential for splashing water. Choose a countertop material that can withstand moisture well. Waterproof laminate or quartz are excellent choices. Also apply a protective sealant to wood surfaces.
Build a Strong Framework for Structural Support
The key to a functional laundry countertop is the framework providing structural support. Constructing wood braces secured to the walls will prevent sagging under stored weight.
Cut and Attach Triangle Braces for Stability
Long wood braces should be cut to form triangle supports. Attaching the diagonal braces into wall studs gives extremely rigid stability. Use deck screws for a sturdy hold and avoid collapsing.
Angle Center Brace to Allow Machine Access
An additional brace running front to back along the middle provides important center support. Cutting this brace at a 45 degree angle on the ends will keep it less visible and allow opening washer/dryer doors without obstruction.
Install Countertop Resting on Framework
With the supporting framework now built, the countertop can be put into place. Have an assistant help with this awkward, heavy piece.
Position Countertop and Secure to Braces
Carefully situate the countertop sheet above the washer and dryer units. Have someone support each end while you screw up into the triangle braces from underneath using short deck screws. This will firmly anchor the countertop resting on the framework designed to bear its weight.
Attach Lip and Backsplash for Finished Edges
Cut boards to create a raised lip at the front and a backsplash along the rear countertop edge. Miter corners neatly before attaching with finish nails and wood putty. The front lip will catch items from sliding off, while protecting the wall behind.
Seal Wood Surfaces
Penetrating wood finishes like mineral oil or Polycrlic protects wood countertops from minor spills and humidity exposure common around laundry appliances.
Customize with Convenient Laundry Features
Get creative with built-ins to make laundry tasks easier. Here are some worthwhile options:
- Cabinets for foldable storage above
- Bottom mounted pull-out hamper
- Integrated sink, ironing board or vacuum system
- Moisture-sealing wood treatment
Pull-Out Hamper Makes Loading Easier
Install a smooth-gliding hamper underneath the countertop overhang. Combine with cabinets overhead to keep laundry workflow contained neatly in one organized space.
Assemble a Removable Countertop for Machine Access
Limit future headaches by designing your elevated laundry shelf to be removable. This modular style conveniently lets you get behind machines easily if connections ever need servicing.
Secure the countertop into a front and rear piece joined with screws. Unfastening the screws allows the sections to disconnect when needing open access behind the units. Use labeled electric cables with quick disconnects to make removing hassle-free.
Gain laundry room storage space instantly by incorporating a countertop over your front load washer and dryer set. Follow our guide to build this functional upgrade tailored to your unique needs and space.