Home Garden

How to Fix Scratches and Burns on Formica

Formica countertops are durable and easy to care for, but even with a superior surface accidents will occur. Deep scratches and burns are common happenings in regular life, especially over the lifetime of a long-lasting product such as Formica. However, if homemakers use good technique damage can be minimized or even eradicated, in some cases saving costly replacement or professional repair costs.

Things You'll Need

  • Mild abrasive cleanser
  • Sponge
  • Abrasive pad
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
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Instructions

  1. Using an Abrasive Cleaner

    • 1

      Pour a mildly abrasive cleanser onto the surface of a minor scratch.

    • 2

      Rub the cleanser onto the surface in a circular fashion using a sponge.

    • 3

      Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.

    Using an Abrasive Pad

    • 4

      Soak an abrasive pad in clean water.

    • 5

      Rub the scratched surface area of the Formica in a circular fashion.

    • 6

      Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.

    • 7

      Repeat up to three times if necessary.

    Using Sandpaper

    • 8

      Use light or fine grade sandpaper and lightly sand the scratched area.

    • 9

      Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

    • 10

      Dry and determine if the scratches are still apparent. If so, repeat lightly with the sandpaper and rinse and rinse again.

    Using a Surface Saver

    • 11

      Use a surface saver product such as one that is meant to replace damaged Formica with a butcher block or cutting block surface.

    • 12

      Cut out the burned portion of the Formica with a sharp saber tooth saw.

    • 13

      Apply the surface saver following the product directions.