RickBetterley

I think my trailer counter top is GavAlum; was going to try to spiff it up, but instead am considering overlaying it.
I don't use the top for mechanical work (i.e., no vice attached), but want something that will hold up to tools and stuff sliding around on it.
And look nice.
Suggestions? Ideally something bought at Lowes and that I can cut and install myself.
My wife will suggest granite but even I won't go that far.

txhokie4life

diamond plate aluminum if it doesn't have to be perfectly flat.
the diamond plate might hide any spot issues, still be light and be tough.

M

RickBetterley

Thank you, M
I would prefer smooth, but appreciate the suggestion.

stujelly

what about a dark color vinyl?

nxfedlt1

Rick, if it's easy to take off, maybe have it line-x'd or make an overlay from aluminum and spray the top of that?

Verboden

You might look at hardboard, 1/8 inch I think. Think of it as something meant to be replaced, easy to work with. MDF with one side malamin might work, not sure if they have it thinner than 3/4 in. Another poster mention vinyl, along that line look at vinyl or linolium type square floor tlies with adhesive backing. Not sure about how hard to remove them though.

One last idea is removable shelf liner, trivial to remove if it doesnt workout and cheap.

RickBetterley

Wondering if vinyl might be too subject to damage?

RickBetterley

I like the idea but suspect it's not easy to remove.
I came across countertop refinishing kits (paint) but need to see if it adheres to what I think is Galvalum..

RickBetterley

Tile squares sounds like a good, workable idea. Thin too.
The melamine as well. Though thinner than 3/4 I haven't found yet.
Anyone use Marilite? It's an FRP panel used for walls. That is thinner.

Verboden

Marilite is a brand of hardboard, hardboard is the generic term for that stuff. As I mentioned earlier, it will have a finite life but would be a relatively easy install. You could do a few discrete screws or double sided tape (tape will weaken depending on your climate though). The more challenging point to me is doing as little cleanup or damage if you decide to remove whatever you choose.

RickBetterley

Ah - thanks for that info.
Agreed about cleanup. No wish to do damage.

stujelly

Line x, that is a great idea,

or you could have a shop bend up another piece of metal and just over lay or glue it to the existing counter

Bill Lehman

I installed a Moduline cabinet system in my garage with an aluminum bench top. I didn't want to mess it up and covered it with a New Pig mat which is designed to be non-slip and absorb spills. It also has a light adhesive on the back which keeps it in place. I purchased it from Eastwood and it works well
http://www.eastwood.com/grippy-mat-w...-x-7-roll.html

RickBetterley

Hi Bill
Interesting idea; I wouldn't be able to use it as a writing surface but generally I'm using a pad of paper anyway. A lot different from what I was thinking (paint, new surface, epoxy poured coating, tiles) but that's good.
Thanks

txhokie4life

Or steal your wife/SO's yoga mats....

M