Can You Put Formica on a Table?

Sanding and Cleaning

• Before you can install a sheet of Formica or other laminate on any surface, including old Formica or wood, you must sand and clean the original surface. Sanding with 100-grit sandpaper gives the surface a rough texture, which will help it bond to the Formica. If the original surface is Formica, use a commercial, all-purpose household cleaner. Clean wood surfaces with a mixture of 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate and 1 gallon of hot water.

Sizing and Cutting the Formica

• If your table is perfectly square or rectangular, you can simply measure the table and mark the measurements on the back of the Formica sheet, and draw lines with a straight edge. However, if the table is oddly shaped or has rounded corners, it may be helpful to flip the table on top of the Formica sheet, and trace the form of the table with a pencil. Once you have the template, cut the Formica sheet with a circular saw. A jigsaw or router may be used as well. Cut the Formica a bit larger than you need it to be, because you can trim it after it is installed.

Applying Contact Cement

• Contact cement is the adhesive most commonly used to secure laminate and Formica to other surfaces. When installing new Formica, always spread the contact cement on both the substrate -- the original surface -- and the back of the Formica. This is best achieved by using a paintbrush to apply a thin, even layer on both surfaces. Avoid applying too much adhesive -- you only need a small amount to form a tight bond.

Laying the Formica

• Installing the Formica sheet should be done with the assistance of at least one other person, even if the table is fairly small. Ideally, there should be one person for each side of the table to ensure that the pattern on the Formica is straight. Once the two surfaces come in contact with each other, it becomes difficult to make adjustments, so work slowly. Once the Formica is on the table, use a laminate roller to ensure complete contact and to push out any air pockets. Trim the Formica with a router.