White Laminate Peeling

Causes

• Over time, laminate can peel from heavy use, old age or due to external conditions such as exposure to steam, grease or other heat. In most cases, laminate starts to peel at the edges or corners. The peeling is a result of the adhesive loosening and failing.

Repair

• Check the material where the laminate is peeling. If it is crumbling or rotting, repair is not possible and you will likely have to replace the entire surface, according to the Popular Mechanics website. If it is solid and undamaged, you can reglue the peeling laminate. First, wipe off the underlying surface to remove dust, grease or bits of wood. Take care not to break any of the peeling laminate.

Method

• Apply a water-resistant adhesive or contact cement with a putty knife. Apply the adhesive to both the surface underneath the peel and to the back of the peel itself. Gently, but firmly, press the peeling laminate back down onto the spot, taking care not to trap any air bubbles. If the laminate is on a horizontal surface, place a heavy object on top of the spot to keep the laminate in place until the adhesive dries. If the laminate is on a vertical surface such as a kitchen cabinet door, wrap masking tape around the area to hold it in place. Once it is dry, use a sharp blade to trim away any protruding adhesive.

Other Considerations

• White laminate is sometimes difficult to repair because the flaws and underlying surface are so visible against the stark white color of the material. Thus, use clear or white adhesive to match the color of the laminate and thoroughly clean off any excess adhesive. If a small piece broke off and you can't completely cover the space with the remaining peeling laminate, consider painting the underlying surface white to match the laminate before gluing it back down.