Restore Your Plastic Laminate Countertop

After twenty years of soft drinks, coffee and wear and tear, a plastic laminate kitchen countertop can become discolored and worn. Small scratches dull the finish. There may be areas where the laminate is coming loose from the substrate.

Option 1: Repairing and Refinishing a Laminate Countertop

If your countertop is in relatively good condition and needs minor touch-ups, you can refinish it yourself by following these steps:

Sanding:
- Use 220-grit sandpaper to gently sand the surface, removing scratches and blemishes.
Sealant Application:
- Apply a layer of sealant to the surface and sand it lightly once it dries.
- Repeat this process two more times, applying sealant and sanding until smooth.
Final Sealant Finish:
- Apply a final coat of sealant and let it dry for 24 hours to complete the refinishing process.

Option 2: Polishing for Maintenance

While scratches and color imperfections cannot be fully repaired, you can clean and polish laminate to enhance its appearance:

Use a Product Like Gel-Gloss:
- Apply Gel-Gloss, a cleaner/polish similar to automotive wax, to the countertop.
- Once it dries into a light, powdery residue, buff it with a clean cloth to leave a glossy finish.
- This process helps mask minor scratches and creates a smooth, water-resistant surface.
Regular Cleaning Tips:
- Wipe the laminate weekly with a solution of warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and bleach, as they can damage the surface.
- Do not flood the surface with water, as it may seep into the edges and cause the particle board underneath to swell.
Reapply Gel-Gloss As Needed:
- When the surface becomes dull again, reapply the polish to maintain the finished look.

Option 3: Replacing Damaged Countertops

If the laminate is peeling, deeply scratched, or missing in areas, replacement may be necessary. Use these steps to install a new countertop:

Prep the Area:
- Remove all appliances and furniture.
Remove the Old Countertop:
- Pry it off gently using a flathead screwdriver.
Install the New Countertop:
- Cut a new piece of laminate countertop to size.
- Attach it securely to the base with screws.
Replace Damaged Tiles:
- Reinstall any tiles that were affected during removal of the old countertop.
Reinstall Appliances and Furniture:
- Carefully return all items to their proper places.