Using Old Carpet Offcuts to make Worktop Protectors
Whether you call it a worktop, countertop or a benchtop, if you’re going to be working over one with tools, you’re going to need to protect it from dents and scratches. Just putting a tool like a claw hammer down gently can damage a high gloss surface and in a brand new install believe me the tiniest of flaws will be a big deal.
Use old (clean) offcuts of carpet to protect work surfaces.
One way to avoid damaging a worktop is to use offcuts of old carpet laid pile side down on the work surface. For an even better protection you can stick a thin layer of hard board or plywood to the back of the carpet first. 55cm works well for me, as on a standard worktop it gives me 5cm or so working space next to the wall. I’m usually tiling when I use these, but it’s also a good tip for tabletops and even wooden floors.
I have a larger piece of carpet for bathrooms or other tiled floors. It’s not guaranteed to prevent a tile from breaking if you drop something heavy, but it’s a darn site better than just a dust sheet! Again, if you’re using heavy tools or you’re prone to dropping things(!) adding a hardboard layer is the safest bet.
One caveat first though, the surface MUST be perfectly clean before you put the carpet down otherwise the pile can pick up any grit and move it back and forth causing scratches.
Stay well
Ian
