How to Repair Bulged Formica

Save money by repairing your own Formica countertop.

Bulging Formica is usually the result of improper installation. If the adhesive is old or does not cover the Formica entirely, it creates a weak spot prone to bulging or bubbling. Formica is a manmade laminate, primarily used for countertops. Laminate countertops are easy to maintain with general cleaning, but they do scratch, mar and burn. It is a popular choice with homeowners because it is available in a wide variety of colors, styles and patterns. Formica is typically much less expensive than other countertop materials.

Things You'll Need

• Degreasing dish soap
• Utility knife
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Paintbrush
• Laminate adhesive
• Rag
• Wax paper
• Weight
• Laminate seam filler

Instructions

1. Wash the Formica area to be repaired with a degreasing dish soap to remove oil, grime and dirt.

2. Dry the countertop with a rag.

3. Cut an "X" in the center of the bulge with a utility knife. Cut through the Formica to expose the substrate.

4. Peel back the edges of the "X" carefully so as not to further damage the countertop.

5. Sand the substrate with fine-grit sandpaper to remove old adhesive.

6. Brush out the sanding dust with a soft paintbrush.

7. Apply laminate adhesive to the substrate and press the Formica back in place.

8. Wipe up excess adhesive with a damp rag.

9. Place a sheet of wax paper over the repair and place a heavy book or other weight on top of it.

10. Allow the adhesive to dry, generally three to four hours.

11. Apply laminate seam filler, in a matching or coordinating color, along the repair seams. Feather the seam filler away from the repair lines to blend into the existing countertop and make the repair less noticeable. Feathering means to make the application lighter and lighter, in terms of thickness, as you move away from the repair.

Tips & Warnings

• Repairs will be more noticeable on solid colors than on patterned countertops.

References

• "Grandpa's 5001 Handyman Secrets"; Dr. Myles H. Bader; 2006
• "Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants"; Edward M. Petrie; 2006