Clean the surface thoroughly with non-abrasive soap and a soft cloth. To maintain the natural shine of a high pressure laminate countertop, clean it on a daily basis with an antibacterial surface cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth. This will minimize stains and prevent abrasive dirt from damaging the surface.
Most laminate countertops can last around 15 years, though high-quality, well-maintained laminates can hold up for 20 years! This lifespan compares to butcher block countertops but is significantly shorter than stone surfaces, like granite or quartz, which can last a lifetime.
Cleaning laminate countertops is as simple as cleaning the dishes. Take a non-abrasive brush or sponge, and add warm water and a drop of dish soap. Scrub the countertops until the suds lift away the dirt and grime. Rinse your sponge with clean water, and wring out continually.
- Use place mats doilies and trivets on laminate surfaces when necessary. - Ceramics and abrasive objects can cause scratching and premature wear – do not slide these items across surface. Visit our Cleaning page for more details.
Using car wax to revive laminate countertops is another easy and affordable way to make them look brand new again.
Hope's Perfect Countertop spray wax is the sole polishing agent that we recommend for this purpose. It is specifically formulated to enhance the shine and colour of your Formica® laminate countertop, without causing any streaks.
DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads or steel wool to clean the countertops. These will scratch and damage the tops. 1. Laminate countertops are not stain-proof.
Laminate Countertop Cons: Heat sensitive: Laminate can scorch or discolor when exposed to hot pots and pans. Prone to scratching: While durable, the surface can be damaged by sharp objects. Not as long-lasting: Compared to natural stone, laminate has a slightly shorter lifespan.
Don't tear out those old laminate countertops—transform them into stunning, custom Stone Coat Epoxy Countertops! Our DIY-friendly epoxy system delivers a natural stone look for a fraction of the cost.
With a simple cleaning process, you can maintain the shine of laminate countertops. To maintain the shine of laminate, you can use a solution of vinegar and water. With mild soap and cleaner, you can remove stubborn stains. These laminate maintenance tips will help to maintain the look of the laminate surface.
Laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are all essentially the same thing; laminate is the substance, and Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both types are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters and available in a variety of colors and designs.
In that case, you really only have one option: Countertop paint kits. If you can spend more, then you can tile over them, either with regular tile or tile kits especially made to tile over laminate. If you can do the labor yourself, you can also replace with newer laminate.
To clean laminate countertops on a daily basis, all you need is dishwashing liquid, warm water and a microfiber cloth. Apply a mixture of dish soap and water to your counters using the cloth. As you wipe the counter, rinse your cloth in clean water.
Laminate counters can scratch easily, so don't use them as cutting boards. Also, avoid placing hot items directly onto the countertop to prevent damage. Clean the surface with a mild soap. Laminates are also susceptible to burns and chipping, which is one downside.
When should laminate flooring be replaced instead of repaired? Replace laminate flooring if it has severe damage, extensive water damage, broken boards, or widespread fading and wear.
Installation is Messy and Requires Great Expertise
It's very easy to make mistakes and end up with a surface that has air bubbles and lumps. Beyond this, the “self-levelling” nature of many kits means the epoxy will race towards the edges and drip off, making a mess of the work area.
Yes, many types of countertops, including laminate, wood and ceramic tile are suitable for painting or resurfacing as long as you use the right materials and technique. To get the best results, follow the painting instructions for your refinishing product, be patient and work carefully.
Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate. If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred.
Lifespan: Laminate has a shorter lifespan than other countertop materials. It typically lasts about 15-20 years, while other materials can last up to 30 years or more. Everyday wear and tear reduce this lifespan and take its toll on the overall appearance of your countertops.
Windex is great on countertops, too, including quartz, granite, marble, laminate and tile. Just make sure that if you're cleaning natural stone counters that have a sealant, such as granite, marble or quartzite, you're using a Windex version that is free of ammonia and vinegar.
Cookware still hot from the stove, oven or microwave, as well as electric skillets, waffle irons, curling irons and hot rollers, should not be placed directly on laminate surfaces. Prolonged exposure to temperatures of 140 ̊F (60 ̊C) or higher may cause the laminate to separate from the core material.
The build-up strips do add support to the countertop at key points but that is not necessarily their primary function. Countertops are made of thick material for a relatively short run, so heavy bracing is not necessary to support common countertop appliances and daily uses.