How to Change Formica Countertops
Formica is a laminate material frequently used by contractors in new home construction because it's attractive, inexpensive and durable. Even with the best care, Formica countertops may become scratched or cracked with daily wear and tear. You can replace your Formica countertops yourself, saving the expense of labor. Keep in mind the most difficult part of the job will be removing the old Formica, which can be a time-consuming, labor-intensive task. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Glue solvent
- Putty knife
- Heat gun
- Cement adhesive
- Trowel
- Large cardboard strips
- Pencil
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- Towel
- Rubber gloves
- C-clamps
- Caulk
- Caulk gun
- Safety goggles
Instructions
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1
Measure your existing countertop. It may be helpful to trace your countertop shape onto a piece of large cardboard, such as a refrigerator box. This helps you see exactly where your tile starts and stops around cabinets, sinks and other appliances. Cut out the cardboard template, and purchase your Formica laminate slightly larger than the area you need. Include pieces for the backsplash and overhangs.
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2
Leave the laminate in the room you are resurfacing for 48 hours to accustom it to the expansion and contraction rates that occur in the room. The Formica Corporation recommends this to prevent unwanted bubbles and seam lifting after installation.
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3
Remove any trim around sinks and appliances. Use the putty knife to lift these areas and expose the edge of the Formica.
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4
Remove the old laminate. Put safety goggles on to protect your eyes from pieces that may crack and fly during remove. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from irritation from the adhesive solvent. Apply solvent to the seam, and apply heat from the heat gun. Insert the putty knife into the seam, slowly prying the existing laminate from the wood. Add solvent and heat as needed as you work your way across the counter.
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5
Cut the Formica to fit the cardboard template. Sand the edges for a smooth finish. Sand the countertop to remove any excess glue. Wipe it down with a damp towel to remove any dust.
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6
Apply nonflammable cement adhesive to the countertop with a trowel. Create a thin 1/16-inch thick layer. Position the Formica on the countertop. Clamp it in place with C-clamps to secure the contact area for an ideal bond.
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7
Replace the metal liner around the sink and other appliances. Caulk the seam to create a moisture barrier. Wipe any excess caulk away with a damp towel. Allow the counter to set for 24 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
If your existing countertop is still not warped or bubbling, you can place a new layer of Formica over the old by scuffing the surface with sandpaper so the surface will grab and hold the cement adhesive. This saves you the time of removing old Formica. Just keep in mind the added height and how it will affect appliances and cabinets.
