Small chips and scratches can be repaired relatively easily. You can buy laminate repair paste at most hardware stores -- it comes in a variety of colors you can mix to match your countertops. Before applying the paste, clean the counter with an ammonia solution to remove any dirt, grime and grease.
Minor Fixes
Small scratches, gouges and chips can be fixed with laminate repair paste or a color-matched repair pen, available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. Choose the color that most closely matches your countertop color.
If your Formica® laminate countertop is starting to show signs of wear and tear, try polishing it back to its original appearance. Formica® laminate is a fantastic material, known for its durability and ease of maintenance.
Apply a medium-heavy coat of contact cement on the back of the laminate and the surface behind the laminate, using a small paintbrush. Adjust the setting on your heat gun to medium and blow warm air behind the loose laminate for 15 to 20 minutes until the contact cement is completely dry to the touch.
Rub a small amount of countertop polish or car wax into the lighter, more shallow scratches on the countertop. Work the polish or wax into the Formica with a soft cloth using a circular motion. Continue buffing the scratched area with the cloth until the polish or wax has filled and hidden the scratches.
Using a putty knife or wooden craft stick, press the paste into the hole so that it completely fills it, leveling the top without overfilling the hole. Once the product dries, it may be difficult to sand it even with the countertop without damaging the counter.
Use a wet cloth and a small amount of dishwashing liquid to remove any soil or residue from the entire surface of the laminate countertop. HGTV recommends using baking soda if you have any particularly tough stains to remove – apply baking soda to the spot, and then scrub away with a sponge.
Q: Can I install plastic laminate over a countertop that's already covered with existing laminate material? A: Yes, but the existing surface must be even and smooth. Repair any gouges or loose edges and make sure the existing laminate is glued firmly.
Score the broken edge with a utility knife. Use the iron to heat up the broken piece, then pry it off. Hold replacement piece of laminate edging against the countertop edge and iron it on. If the glue doesn't reactivate, adhere the replacement piece with contact cement.
Use a Countertop Paint Kit
You can purchase paint kits that allow you to update the look of your countertops. The product is simple to use and can give you the look of stone for less than hundred dollars. If you want a new look, but don't want to spend a lot of money, painting your countertops is a great option.
Cover with Tile.
If your laminate countertops are in less-than-ideal condition, or if painting over them doesn't appeal to you, there is still hope! Simply tile over them. Tiling is a relatively inexpensive alternative to solid countertops, and with the huge variety of available tiles, you can create any look you want.
Yes you can add new formica directly over the old formica countertops. Just be sure they are very clean and dry. If there are bad places in the old countertops the bad places need to be cut out and a well-fitted patch needs to be put in before the new formica goes down.
The truth is, laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are basically the same; laminate is the material while Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both brands come in a wide range of colors and patterns and are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters.
Using a flattened plastic straw, blow any powdery glue dust out of the crack. Then spread a small amount of wood glue into the crack using a glue-filled syringe (available at craft and hardware stores). Press down on the veneer and release several times to make sure the glue spreads thoroughly.
Re Laminate Countertop Costs
Re-laminating a countertop costs $200 to $650. Expect to pay $100 to $300 for materials and an additional $35 to $85 per hour for labor. You can re laminate post-formed surfaces with square edges.
The Gel-Gloss Story:
Cleans, protects and restores luster. Highly recommended for use on acrylics, Corian, porcelain, ceramic, Formica and stainless steel surfaces. Works great on tubs, vanities, sinks, showers, spas and countertops.
Pour some mild abrasive liquid such as Comet® Cleanser or Soft Scrub® on a soft damp sponge or damp cotton cloth. In a circular motion, rub the area you wish to repair. Mild pressure should be applied. Clean the area thoroughly with clean water and wipe the surface until it is completely dry.
With a little rubbing, Gel-Gloss will remove most stains and discoloration with its mild abrasive and solvent cleaner. Spread a thin coat on the countertop after it dries to a light powdery residue, buff with a clean cloth.