How to Replace Laminate on a Cabinet Side

Measure the height and width dimensions for the cabinet section you want to replace using a tape measure. Write down the measurements, and then add ½ inch to your measurements for the height and width. For example, if the cabinet side is 20 inches wide and 32 inches tall, you would need a laminate replacement piece that is at least 21 inches wide and 33 inches tall. Purchase a sheet of replacement laminate that meets your measurements and specifications.

Remove the existing laminate from the cabinet substrate surface. In most cases, the substrate is made of particleboard. Plug in a heat gun and heat it to a medium temperature. Apply the gun to the surface of the preexisting laminate, starting at a corner of the cabinet. As the old adhesive loosens, pry the laminate from the particleboard with a 4-inch putty knife. Continue to glide the heat gun over the old laminate and pry it away until all of the old laminate is removed. Sand the exposed substrate surface until it is smooth.

Cut the new replacement laminate sheets with a circular saw according to your measurements. Spread newspaper on the floor below your work area to catch any accidental drops of the contact cement.

Apply a bead of contact cement along the perimeter of the particleboard or substrate material. Start at the top edge, then apply the contact cement to the left and right sides, and finally on the bottom edge. Then apply the contact cement in an “X” shape, working from the top right corner to the lower left corner, and then from the top left corner to the lower right corner.

Spread newspaper on the floor and lay the replacement laminate sheet on top of the newspaper, wrong side up. Run beads of contact cement on the back of the laminate sheet in horizontal lines, working from left to right. Continue making horizontal bead lines over the back surface, spacing the bead lines 3 inches apart.

Place the replacement laminate piece onto the cabinet, starting at the upper right corner. Push the laminate piece snugly into place. For example, if the side you are replacing is next to a wall, use the wall to help you align the laminate piece as straight and snug as possible. Continue positioning the laminate into place on the cabinet. Press the laminate firmly with your hand, and glide your hand firmly over the surface, working from the center to the sides, so the laminate piece adheres to the particleboard or substrate material on the cabinet. Glide a rubber roller over the surface, working from left to right across the entire surface, applying pressure as you glide. Repeat the process but move the roller vertically instead of horizontally. This will help eliminate any air bubbles.

Trim the edges with a router. Sand after trimming, if needed.

Allow the replacement piece to dry and cure for at least 24 hours, or according to the contact cement directions to complete your laminate replacement piece project.