Expert: Jamie Yocono - 6/30/2009

Question
I have a desk top that is covered with a piece of laminate (Formica).  It is secure to the top but I want to change the color.  Can I just put contact cement on it and add another piece of Formica over it or do I have to strip off the old Formica?

Answer
John,

I have applied laminate right over an older layer of laminate, but you have to make sure that the original layer has a good bond to the sub-straight. If it's de-laminating (coming apart), then your new top layer will probably come up, too.

It's a good idea to scuff up the existing layer, so that the contact cement has something to "bite" into when being glued down. I'd use something fairly coarse, like 60 grit paper. You don't need to do a perfect sanding job, just a nice scuffed up surface will do.

If there are edges involved, remember that usually the edges are done first. The top goes on last.

Good luck, it sounds like you know what you're doing, and it's not too hard of a job. Write back if you have more questions,

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com