How to repair lifted laminate on kitchen benchtop edge?

Question

Hi everyone,

Part of the laminate/outer layer on our kitchen benchtop has started lifting and separating from the wood underneath (photos attached). We’re not exactly sure what caused it — possibly moisture, heat, or accidental impact — but the laminate is still partially attached and we want to fix it before it breaks off completely.

The benchtop appears to be particle board with a laminate surface. The damaged section is on the front edge near the sink area. We are currently renting/leaving the property soon, so we’re looking for a DIY repair that looks neat and prevents further damage without replacing the whole benchtop.

Could anyone please recommend:

* the best glue/adhesive for this type of repair,
* whether contact adhesive, epoxy, or another product would work best,
* and the proper method to clamp/hold it while drying?

Preferably looking for products easily available from Bunnings in Melbourne.

Thanks in advance!

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @nahianfal,

That looked like one of those repairs where catching it early probably made a huge difference before the laminate snapped off completely.

Did you end up attempting the repair yourself? I’d be interested to hear how well the laminate pulled back down once clamped and whether the moisture damage underneath stabilised okay.

Those benchtop edge repairs can sometimes turn out surprisingly neat if the board underneath hasn’t swollen too badly.

Mitchell

EricL · Answer

Hello @nahianfal

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your laminate benchtop.

It appears that the timber part of the benchtop has gotten wet. This needs to be dried off before you apply any adhesive as it will not work if there is any residual moisture in that area. I suggest using a hair dryer in high setting to dry the timber under the broken section of the benchtop. Once the timber is dry enough, I suggest using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-250g-liquid-nails-clear-construction-adhesive_p1232420

in combination with

https://www.bunnings.com.au/irwin-300mm-quick-grip-mini-clamp-2-pack_p0215574

.

The cabinet doors must be open so that you can clamp the benchtop from the inside lip of the cabinet. Wipe away the excess adhesive with a paper towel and wait for the adhesive to cure before removing the clamp.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as disposable rubber gloves when spreading adhesive.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric