In the early years of my career in the countertop fabrication business, I sold a large number of plastic laminate countertops. When I went into business for myself 17 years ago, I started out specializing in repairing and modifying solid surface countertops. My thinking at that time was that the potential for repairing plastic laminate countertops was limited, and I wanted to focus totally on my new specialty. Eventually, though, I developed an interest in new business opportunities.
-Pick your materialI've been frequently asked if it is practical to paint plastic laminate countertops in order to change the color or cover damaged areas. Over the years, I've seen some paint jobs that have held up poorly, and ended up looking worse than the original countertop. I've rarely seen a repainted countertop that looked really good. Consequently, I've tended to recommend against the idea of repainting countertops in the past.Accordingly, here's some information about a variety of products and services that allow plastic laminate countertops to be repaired and refinished.OK I WANT SOLID SURFACE, SO NOW WHAT?This is an important strategic step for us," said Robert M�ller, Panolam Industries' chairman, president and CEO. "Nevamar has a very strong presence in the U.S., and we see tremendous opportunities in Europe."With hundreds of options for solid surface countertops and kitchen surfaces, there are four main points to focus on:The difficulty level to install will be determined by yourself and the countertops installer. A professional kitchen or bathroom countertops installer will provide all the details for you to make an informed decision for your remodeling project.Once you have your material, now select your color scheme. The most important factor color will have on your kitchen is the mood. Research on line how colors affect a persons mood. Using this information, and your personal preferences, you�ll be able to select the right color for your countertops.One well-known company, Miracle Method, has been successful in refinishing plastic laminate countertops. Miracle Method originated in 1979 as a franchise operation specializing in refinishing items like bathtubs and porcelain sinks. With over 120 locations and an emphasis on quality and customer service, the company may be the best choice nationally for professional refinishing of plastic laminate countertops. Enter your zip code at MiracleMethod.com for a referral to a franchise near you.- how long the kitchen countertops should lastSince 1956, Kampel Enterprises has been manufacturing its Seam-Fil product. This product is intended to fill seams, nicks and chips in plastic laminate surfaces. Available in one ounce squeeze tubes in 20 standard colors, the product can be blended by the user, or Kampel will custom mix the product for an exact color match to a specific laminate. After it cures, the result is a very durable repair. Visit KampelEnt.com for more information, or contact one of their 700 distributors, or order online at AmericanTechnologyI nc.com.I'm rethinking that opinion. Just because many people have failed to do a good job doesn't mean that it's impossible. The key to success is selecting the right products that will bond securely to the laminate, and result in an attractive, durable, sanitary surface.First, select the material to use. Obviously, the material will determine limitations on the colors and features you can select. (I haven�t seen many purple colored stainless steel kitchens lately).
These products and services offer the promise that plastic laminate countertops that are moderately damaged or worn, or that no longer match the color scheme of the kitchen or bath, can be refurbished for many additional years of service.
Author: Heaphy, Jim
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