Hi James: I’ve ruined my brand-new laminate countertop by putting a scorching-hot pan on it. Can I fix this issue on my own to avoid the cost of another replacement? — Maria T.
Dear Maria: Laminate countertop materials are very durable, but they can be damaged by the application of heat from hot cooking utensils. It may just weaken it so it wears faster or discolor it immediately. Fortunately, there is a relatively simple method to fix the bad spot and actually improve the overall appearance.
Taking out the defective area and installing ceramic tiles is the optimal solution for repairs. Given that this part of your countertop is likely where you often put hot cookware, using heat-resistant ceramic tile makes sense. This type of tile comes in numerous hues, dimensions, and designs, allowing you to achieve whatever aesthetic you desire.
The first step is to measure the damaged area to get a rough idea of the size of tiles that will fit in neatly. Since you are not an expert at laying tiles, it would be wise to select a medium-size tile and plan on fairly wide (1/4-inch) grout joints. Wider joints allow for a greater margin of error in spacing without it being apparent.
Even though all types of ceramic tiles can be used for this kind of countertop installation, it’s best to steer clear of highly shiny ones due to their susceptibility to showing wear. Given that your kids might put hot metal containers on these surfaces and they aren’t known for being particularly gentle, tiles featuring a typical matte glaze will do a much better job at camouflaging minor scuffs compared to those with a gleaming appearance.
After purchasing the tiles, position them precisely over the damaged area. Outline the tiles with a marker on the countertop, ensuring you allow extra room for the grout lines at the edges.
When the affected area exceeds one-third of the countertop’s width, reinforcing it for added durability is advisable. Apply construction adhesive to a section of plywood and attach it underneath the damaged region. Ensure this patch spans the entire width of the countertop or extends over the issue zone by at least six inches. Utilize short two-by-four pieces as supports beneath to hold everything securely in place until the adhesive cures completely.
Head over to your nearby tool rental store and obtain a compact electric router equipped with a 1/4-inch carbide bit. Use this setup to remove the deteriorated section and create space for the new tiles. Adjust the router’s depth setting to match the thickness of the tiles along with an additional 1/16 of an inch. This adjustment ensures enough clearance for the tile adhesive, ensuring that the top surfaces of the tiles align perfectly with the surface of the countertop.
Put the tiles back into the routed section to ensure proper spacing. Once everything appears correct, take out the tiles and apply multiple layers of clear urethane sealer onto the sunken area. This step helps protect against moisture penetrating the particleboard underneath. Don’t forget to seal the edges as well.
Multiple varieties of tile adhesive exist, however, cement-based thinset typically proves to be the most effective choice. While organic adhesives are easier to work with, they lack the strength and stability offered by thinset. Containers filled with water can impose significant strain on the tiled section.
After reaching this stage, the toughest part of the task is behind you. Using sanded grout to complete the job works best for this kind of repair. Light-colored grout complements most tile shades effectively. Additionally, should discoloration occur over time, this grout can be effortlessly cleaned using either bleach or a standard bathroom tile cleaner.
Submit your queries to Here’s How at 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45244, or stop by.
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