Patching Countertop Laminates

A quick countertop fix that will yield a surface as good as new.

Lots of people have countertops in their kitchens and baths or laundry rooms and entertainment areas covered with what is called "Formica." It really is just a brand name often misused to describe a generic solid-surface material called plastic laminate. Today it's used for countertops, cabinets and all types of furniture because it's versatile, durable and beautiful. It's probably somewhere in your home right now. If so, chances are, at some point, it might get chipped, cracked or a seam will open up. Till now, that meant looking at it day after day or replacing it when you can't stand it anymore. Touchups with paint don't work because paint won't stick to plastic. But take heart. There's a new product called Seamfil coming to the rescue. It's resin-based paint putty that can be mixed to match your existing laminate surface by the brand name and color number. Purchase a Seamfil kit, squeeze a dab onto a polished putty knife and then into the chip or open seam. Your quick fix will yield a surface as good as new. And that's the On The House tip for today.

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