You can put new laminate right over the old. Just measure your existing countertops so you can shop for your replacement laminate. Check your home center to find out what it has in stock. You will be able to trim it once it's in place, so buy pieces that are a little larger than you need.

To make sure the new laminate will "stick" to the old, you need to lightly sand the gloss off the entire existing surface. Clean it with a vacuum, and follow up with a damp sponge to get all of the dust off the surface.

Apply contact cement to the existing countertop and the underside of the laminate. Follow the package directions, and keep the two surfaces apart until the cement has had time to start setting up, usually 10 minutes or so. It will feel tacky.

Place wooden dowels, cut wider than the countertop, spaced every few inches apart down the length, and then set the new laminate on top of these. This is supposed to make setting it in place easier. Once the laminate is positioned, start at one end and remove the dowels, pushing the laminate in place a little bit at a time. Use a strong roller to smooth out the countertop and to make sure the contact cement makes a good adhesion.

Trim the edges smooth to finish it off. If you need to make any cuts in the laminate, you can use a straightedge and utility knife, or a router with a bit made for cutting laminate. There are some specialized trimming tools that are also available and that work really well to give you a smooth finish. Perhaps you can borrow or rent one if you don't have one.

You could have a whole new look for your kitchen in just one weekend. Wouldn't that be super?

Q: At one time, I painted my kitchen tiles. I've noticed that they are starting to peel. How can I strip off the rest of the paint without ruining the tiles? — S.L.

A: There are some paint strippers that will work on tile. Just test it first to make sure it doesn't harm the finish on the surface of the tile. The grout, however, may have to be replaced or repainted.

Interior painting can give your home a whole new look for very little money. It's the least-expensive way to remodel a room for sure. We have put together a great reference guide called "The Inside Story on Interior Painting." This brochure has all of the basic instructions you will need, starting with plenty of tips on prep work, which is the most important and tedious part of most paint jobs. You'll also learn about all of the different applicators available, as well as the different types of paint and finishes. We'll even give you some great ideas to help clean up afterward and ways you can keep the mess to a minimum while you work. A good paint job will pay for itself almost immediately, and can be a lot of fun. To get a copy for yourself, just send a self-addressed, stamped envelope, along with $1 ($2 in Canada), to The Super Handyman, in care of your newspaper, and we'll get a copy out to you right away.