Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - removing an installed sheet of formica and replacing

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PDA
01-29-01, 12:15 AM
I need to remove and replace a newly installed sheet of formica that got damaged. I'd appreciate advice from others who have done this successfully.
My initial idea is to use a heat gun and putty knife to lift an edge and work my way along, then remove the contact cement with a solvent or possibly by sanding.
Any suggestions?

Mike Swearingen
01-29-01, 05:14 PM
I don't believe that you can remove a piece of formica successfully. Once it is glued, it is GLUED.
2000
02-06-01, 10:50 PM
Go over the old: sand with 80# grit sandpaper in a cross hatch fashion, clean with acetone, and use solvent based contact cement. DO NOT use water based contact cement for bonding the new to the old. It will delimitate. Repair bad sections: cut away and fill with bondo plastic filler, then sand smooth. It is not necessary or desirable to remove the old laminate.

02-14-01, 07:09 PM
Thanks 2000 and Old Guy! I appreciate your advice. I haven't yet tried out the formica over formica repair, but when I do I'll be prepared, thanks to your helpful tips.
Cscovel
05-12-06, 07:56 PM
Any ideas on how to remove that small chome strip between back splash and counter top?