how do you refinish formica cabinets

How to Refinish Formica

Full Answer

Can you resurface Formica cabinets?

Refacing Formica cabinets is most easily done by adding a new fresh layer of Formica laminate over the old. This is an easy, cost-effective method of giving your kitchen a fresh look without doing a lot to the rest of the room. In some cases you will need to remove old Formica.

How can I make Formica cabinets look better?

A special primer designed for plastic and slick surfaces is required for Formica; otherwise, the paint won't stick. Once that dries, give the cabinet a makeover in a favorite paint shade, such as antique white or apple green, that fits in with the decor in the room.

Can laminate cabinets be refinished?

The least expensive option is painting laminate cabinets. Laminate is not an ideal surface to paint, but it can be done.

How can I update my laminate cabinets without replacing them?

0:081:394 Ways to Update Kitchen Cabinets Without Replacing Them (Part 1YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTop coat or finish. Another great way to accent your kitchen cabinets is by adding crown moldingMoreTop coat or finish. Another great way to accent your kitchen cabinets is by adding crown molding crown molding can fill space between your cabinets.

How do you make Formica look new again?

For surface marks, first use a soft cloth and soap to clean the surface, and then apply a thin layer of baking soda or toothpaste to the mark. Let it sit there for a few minutes. Then use a toothbrush or soft bristle brush to scrub the burnt surface. Clean again.

What paint will stick to Formica?

To paint Formica countertops, you'll need to use a strong durable paint like laminate paint, interior acrylic paint, or a two-part epoxy paint that's water based. Once you have your paint, apply 2 coats of a primer, which will help the paint adhere to the countertops.

Is painting laminate cabinets worth it?

Painting laminate cabinets offers an inexpensive way to update the appearance of your kitchen in a short amount of time. With a minimal financial investment, a little time and some elbow grease, your kitchen can have a richer, more customized look.

How do you make laminate cabinets look new?

After sanding the laminate with 120-grit sandpaper, roll or brush on the paint If you're having trouble choosing a paint color, keep it simple. White paint can help brighten your kitchen and give it a fresh look, while a sleek black or dark brown paint gives your laminate cabinets some modern flair.

How can I paint Formica cabinets without sanding?

InstructionsRemove the hardware.Use a cleaner or degreaser to fully clean the surfaces.Use a good primer and spray or paint the cabinets with two coats.Once primer is fully dry, apply two coats of paint.Make sure to apply a top coat after the paint is dry. You can apply 1-2 coats.

Can I sand laminate cabinets?

Clean and prepare the cabinet doors. Then, begin to either sand or apply chalky finish paint, depending on your preference: Sanding: Using a rougher grit sandpaper, sand the laminate so it will better bond to the primer you use. Be careful not to over-sand the area, since laminate surfaces are typically very thin.

How can I refinish my kitchen cabinets without stripping them?

How To Refinish Kitchen Cabinets Without StrippingStep #1 Remove the Kitchen Cabinets.Step #2 Clean, Clean, Clean.Step #3 Sanding.Step #4 Time to Stain the Kitchen Cabinets.Step #5 Apply Polyurethane.Step #6 Replace the Kitchen Cabinets into Place.

Can you put new laminate over old laminate?

Q: Can I install plastic laminate over a countertop that's already covered with existing laminate material? A: Yes, but the existing surface must be even and smooth. Repair any gouges or loose edges and make sure the existing laminate is glued firmly.

Can Formica be buffed?

Rick Crow: Car or boat gelcoat buffing compound along with a $20 Harbor Freight buffer/polisher will do wonders on old Formica. I have done that numerous times on old kitchen counter tops (and stainless steel sinks!) to give them a fresh shine and to clean up minor scratches.

Can you resurface Formica?

For example, a Formica countertop that's at the end of its useful life can be resurfaced by first sanding down the surface so an adherent, like epoxy, will easily take to the surface.

Can you cover old Formica?

If you have old laminate (Formica, Wilsonart, etc.) countertops that have square edges, you can cover them with a layer of new laminate, which is sold in sheets up to 5 feet wide and 12 feet long.

How to clean Formica laminate?

Clean the Formica with a degreasing-cleaner-soaked sponge, working from top to bottom. Follow with a clean, water-soaked rag to remove any last traces of grease, and then wipe the laminate dry with a clean towel or rag.

How to repair cracks in Formica?

Then, repair any small holes, scratches, or cracks in the Formica surface with epoxy putty, spreading the putty as smoothly as possible with a putty knife.

What is Formica made of?

Created in 1913 as a form of insulation, Formica —which is the brand name of the laminate made by the Formica Group—is not made entirely of plastic, despite the feel and appearance. It’s actually made from many layers of paper, which are soaked in resin, dried, and then sealed in clear melamine. Hugely popular from the 1950s through the 1970s as an inexpensive, colorful, and fairly durable countertop material, it’s no wonder that Formica is making something of a comeback today in new installations. Still, many homes still sport Formica counters or cabinets in yesterday’s colors and patterns.

How to protect laminate from dust?

Protect your eyes, skin, and lungs from airborne laminate dust with goggles, gloves, and a dust mask. Then, use 120- or 150-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to scuff the glossy surface. (Because Formica is non-porous and slick, paint won’t adhere properly without first roughing it up a little.) Don’t neglect corners, divots, and edges, and don’t skip this step or skimp on the process—it’s tedious, but it’s crucial to achieving a professional-looking result.

How do I seal a painted counter?

Seal your painted counter or cabinets with a clear semi- or high-gloss protective finish. Use oil-based polyurethane over oil-based paint or clear acrylic sealer over acrylic paint. Apply two coats of sealant, allowing time to dry completely between the two passes.

What to do if you removed cabinet doors for painting?

Replace hardware, return your cabinet doors to their proper positions if you removed them for painting, and clean up your work area. Your job is complete!

Can you paint Formica?

While updating the color of Formica with fresh coats of paint can be a bit time-consuming, it isn’t especially difficult, even for a beginner to the do-it-yourself scene . As long as you prep patiently and properly—starting with a bonding primer to aid paint in adhering to the slick, nonporous surface of the Formica—you can achieve professional results. This detailed guide on how to paint Formica will walk you through transforming your kitchen or bathroom from ho-hum to wow.

How to remove Formica laminate?

To remove the Formica laminate, put on protective rubber gloves and goggles. Apply lacquer solvent to the seam and add heat with the heat gun. Insert the putty knife in the corner and push the Formica away from the cabinet substrate.

How to apply contact cement to a surface?

Mix the contact cement with water according to the manufacturer's label. Use a trowel to apply a thin layer over the freshly prepped surface.

Can you remove Formica from a kitchen?

This is an easy, cost-effective method of giving your kitchen a fresh look without doing a lot to the rest of the room. In some cases you will need to remove old Formica. The conditions that require old laminate removal include loose panels, warped or bubbled segments or areas that have too tight of a fit to add the one-sixteenth inch layer ...