How to Fix a Laminate Top With an Iron

Examine the laminate top to determine the nature and extent of the problem. Gaps around the edge may be easy to detect, but problems in the middle of the table may be less obvious. Shine a light from a lamp or flashlight horizontally across the surface to detect any bubbles that may indicate failure of the glue or cement in the interior of the table.

Heat your iron to a medium temperature. Set the iron to its dry setting. Do no use steam to fix a bubble in the interior of a laminate top. Place a paper grocery bag or heavy kraft paper on the laminate top. Apply the warm iron to the kraft paper, moving it constantly in a back-and-forth ironing motion. If there is sufficient glue present, the heat from the iron may soften it enough to allow it to rebond the laminate. If the bubble pops back up, or if the separation occurs around the edge of the table top, you must take additional action.

Preheat your iron to a medium temperature. Set the iron to its steam setting. Apply the steaming iron directly on the laminate top beginning at the edge of the laminate. Keep the iron in constant motion to prevent scorching the laminate. As the glue softens use a putty knife to gently pry up the laminate. Work your way back until the separation reaches the bubble. You may need to completely remove the laminate top.

Scrape the top with the putty knife to remove all old glue. You may need to use a razor blade scraper or a cement solvent to completely clean the surface. If you use a solvent, make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding. If you use a scraper, be sure to completely remove all debris from the surface.

Apply a fresh layer of glue or cement to both the surface of the top and the back of the laminate. Lay the laminate into place and smooth it out, starting in the center of the laminate and working your way out ensure all air bubbles are removed. Make sure all the edges line up. Clamp the laminate to the top and allow the glue to cure for at least 24 hours.