How to Repair Formica

Formica, a laminated surface most commonly used for kitchen countertops, is widely used for its cleaning convenience. Though the best way to repair Formica is replacement, there are temporary fixes to keep the appearance of the countertop until you are able to purchase a new one. The type of damage to your countertop will determine the type of temporary fix you will use.

Things You'll Need

• topcoat
• laminate filler
• putty knives
• sand paper

Instructions

Repairing Burns or Scorches

1. Check with the company who installed your counter top if necessary to see what they suggest. They may have a specific way of dealing with this and may be able to provide a technician to help you.

2. Examine the burned area and check the dimensions.

3. Decide between refilling or replacing the area.

4. Refilling the area requires you to fill the area with special plastic filler, sand it down to smooth it out and then spray it with a topcoat.

5. Replacing the area requires you to cut out the damaged area and replace it with a new piece of countertop.

Repairing Cracks and Scratches

1. Purchase special laminate filler.

2. Fill in each crack or scratched area of your counter top with a putty knive.

3. Sand down the area and smooth out any rough edges.

4. Spray on a topcoat.

Repairing Gouges or Holes

1. Decide whether to fill the damaged areas or purchase new counter.

2. Purchase the correct formica filler.

3. Fill the gouge or hole with a putty knive and let the fiiler dry.

4. Sand the repaired area smooth and wipe clean.

5. Spray with a topcoat.

Tips & Warnings

• When it comes to your countertop it is a personal decision as to how you want it to look.

• Talk to various companies about their repairs for laminates because it may vary in type and cost as well.

• To avoid any of the damages from occurring again, be sure to put cutting boards, trivets and any other necessary equipment on your counter.

• Formica can cost you more to repair than replace. It may end up being cheaper to get a different counter altogether. Take that into consideration when you initially purchase your counter top.

• The repairs mentioned are only temporary and are not permanent. You may or may not end up having to cover up these problem areas in the future.