How to Repair Formica Countertops

Formica, otherwise known as plastic laminate, is one of the most common countertop surfaces in American homes. It is durable, affordable, attractive and comes in a multitude of styles and colors. Sometimes, however, Formica countertops require a little repair work to keep them looking good. They can scratch and crack over time, but thankfully, it's easy to repair Formica countertops with just a few tools and materials.

Things You'll Need

• Laminate repair paste
• Putty knife
• Cloth rag
• Ammonia cleaner
• Topcoat

Instructions

1. Find a laminate repair paste at your local hardware store that matches the color of your Formica countertops. If a close enough match is not available, it may be necessary to mix several pastes together to create a matching color.

2. Wipe the damaged area down with a dry cloth. Apply a small amount of ammonia cleaner to the cloth and wipe the counter again. Allow plenty of time for the ammonia to dry completely.

3. Spread the repair paste over the damaged area with a putty knife.

4. Push away any excess paste, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

5. Allow the paste to completely dry. Spray a topcoat over the repaired spot and surrounding area.

Tips & Warnings

• Formica repairs are only temporary, and may need to be repeated every few months. Always use a cutting board when chopping or dicing food on your countertop to avoid damaging the surface.

• In some instances, repairing Formica can be a costly project. If there are numerous damaged areas, consider replacing your countertop.