Heat and Pressure Seal Counter Tops

If you’ve got a bubble in a plastic laminate counter top, it’s not a good thing. This material is used on the majority of counter tops and usually provides years of service without complaint.

In the kitchen, water is the enemy, and counter tops can be its victim. Generally they are watertight and not at risk, but occasionally the plastic laminate separates from the substrate (the plywood or particleboard underneath) and results in a “bubble” on the surface or as a corner that lifts.

The laminate and substrate are glued together with strong contact cement. When it loosens, heat and pressure can reactivate its holding power. Use a hot iron with a towel (to protect the surface) and then add weight for pressure. When removed, it should be good as new.

--Associated Press