Yes, water can permanently ruin laminate countertops if it penetrates the surface. While the top layer is water-resistant, the core is made of compressed particleboard. If water seeps into unsealed edges or seams, the core absorbs it, causing the wood to swell, warp, and bubble.
Once it is exposed to moisture, it swells, it expands. That expansion is going to push the top piece of the laminate up. After that, any little bit of moisture is only going to make it worse.
To fix minor water damage on a laminate countertop, dry out the area completely with a hairdryer on low, scrape away any swollen or crumbly substrate, and inject a waterproof wood glue or epoxy into the void. Clamp the area tightly until cured and seal all seams with waterproof.
Carefully examine your laminate flooring for signs of water damage, which may include: Swelling or bubbling along the edges of planks. Discoloration or darkening. Soft spots when you press down.
Laminate: One of the more affordable options, laminate countertops typically need to be replaced after 10-20 years, depending on wear and tear. Laminate is more susceptible to damage from heat, water, and chipping.
Replacing laminate countertops typically costs between $20 and $80 per square foot fully installed. For an average-sized kitchen (about 30 to 40 sq. ft.), expect a total project cost ranging from $720 to $2,880, depending on the material grade, edging options, and your local labor rates.
Quartz is universally considered the superior material for durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-term home value. However, laminate remains a strong option if budget is your main priority.
How to Repair Laminate Flooring
It takes as little as 24 hours for mold to start growing under wet laminate flooring, and if water is dirty—from dishwashers, groundwater, toilets, or dirty carpet—bacteria can start growing in as little as 12 hours.
The fastest ways to dry up water include using a dehumidifier, industrial fans, or absorbent materials like silica gel and calcium chloride. Improving airflow via open windows and increasing the temperature also accelerates evaporation, while wet-dry vacuums quickly remove standing water.
Look for: Permanent water stains and unsightly mold water damage markings on ceilings, walls and floors. Erosion of drywall, often causing it to be warped or changed in texture (TIP: newer water spots will feel firm to the touch, while older water damage will create a spongy, mushy feeling)
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
Yes, they are essentially the same thing. Laminate is the general name of the material, while Formica is simply the most well-known brand that manufactures it. All Formica is laminate, but not all laminate is Formica.
Using regular house fans, It could take up to a week to dry laminate floors, especially if the relative humidity level in your house is above 40%. You should never dry wet laminate flooring in place as this could take weeks and creates a big opportunity for mold or bacteria to grow on the underside of the flooring.
Place a tile entirely in the bucket of water and remove it immediately. By seeing water droplets repelled from the surface of the planks, you can realize that it is waterproof.
Remove as much water as possible from the surface using towels, a wet/dry vacuum, or mops. Extract the moisture from between the planks using a vacuum hose attachment. The more you can pull out, the faster the drying process. Use fans and dehumidifiers to increase air circulation and accelerate drying.
Early signs of mold exposure frequently mimic seasonal allergies. They include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, coughing, postnasal drip, and red, itchy, or watery eyes. Skin irritation or rashes may also occur, and mold can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms like wheezing and chest tightness.
Discoloration or stains: Look for any discoloration, warping, or stains on the surface of the laminate flooring. Water damage caused by mold growth can lead to changes in the appearance of the flooring material.
Mold is highly likely—but not strictly guaranteed—after water damage. Microscopic mold spores naturally exist everywhere, and they can germinate and spread in as little as 24 to 48 hours if organic materials (like drywall, carpet, or wood) remain damp and unventilated.
Swelling and bubbling – The layers of laminate can separate and warp when exposed to moisture. Lifting or buckling – If the planks start lifting at the seams, it may be due to underlying water damage. Musty odor – A damp smell often signals moisture trapped beneath the laminate.
While vinegar is a popular DIY cleaning solution, it's not recommended for laminate floors. Its acidic nature can dull the laminate's finish over time. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for laminate flooring to ensure it remains vibrant and undamaged.
Restoring damaged laminate countertops depends on the severity of the damage. For minor nicks and scratches, use a color-matched laminate filler or hard wax. For peeled edges, use contact cement. For widespread fading, use a laminate restorer. For extensive damage like deep burns or water-swelling, replacement is often required.
You should avoid using Clorox wipes on your quartz countertops. Disinfecting wipes often contain ingredients like bleach or citric acid, which can degrade the resin binders in quartz, leading to discoloration and a dull finish over time.
Quartz and natural quartzite are the top trends, favored for their durability and striking, high-contrast veining. Alongside these, matte finishes, earthy tones, and ultra-durable porcelain are redefining kitchen spaces.
Popular Types of Luxury Countertops
The unique appearance of these options is right at home in a variety of upscale and bespoke kitchen design styles. For similar reasons and more, quartz continues to be the most popular kitchen countertop material choice.