Laminate kitchen countertops should last a lifetime, if you know a few tricks to maintain and repair them. Laminate comes in a seemingly endless number of styles and patterns these days. Plus, it requires virtually no maintenance to keep it looking good. But like all things indestructible these days, there comes a time when the inevitable happens and things need a little TLC.
Wax on Wax off
One of the best things about having such a variety of patterns that laminates come in these days is how well they hide dirt. Assuming you want to hide dirt. Every once in a while, if you give your countertops a little extra clean with soap and a brush, you’ll remove a surprising amount of hidden grime. This is a good exercise for both your countertops and the people who use them. Now here’s something you probably never thought of doing to your countertops now that they’re sparkling clean. Try some car wax. Yes, you heard me. Car wax. Just as your car enjoys the protection of a light coat of wax, so will your countertops. Not to mention a nice glossy finish. If you’re not sure of the benefits, try waxing a small section that is the least visible of all your countertops. This way you can see if you like the look after so much effort.
Bubble Bubble Boil and Iron
Everyone notices little bumps forming on their laminate countertops. If you liked me, you probably thought the only way to fix something like that was to replace the entire countertop. Well, there is a way to fix those bumps, and it’s a lot cheaper than replacing the whole thing. Simply place a damp towel or cloth over the offending bumps. Next, heat a clothes iron and place it on the fabric for about ten seconds. This type of softens the glue under the laminate that is causing the bulge. Next, you need to place something heavy on the laminate section for at least twelve hours. I could try to get one of his children to sit on it. A medium sized eight or nine year old should suffice. Of course, if you don’t have one of those available, then some really heavy books should suffice.
Just a wound in the flesh
So someone (usually called dunno) in my house just took a chip out of their beautiful laminate in the most visible spot on the entire countertop. Aside from the obvious cosmetic damage, this chip now has the potential to allow water to damage the wooden base below. Fortunately, most home centers have a chip filler that comes in a variety of colors that should match your countertop. While not fully visible to the naked eye, it should be less noticeable and will definitely prevent water damage.
