Formica Countertops - Should I replace or refinish?
Formica is the leading manufacturer of laminate countertop material. It is used most often on kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities. Formica countertops make great work surfaces because they are non-porous and easy to clean. Unfortunately, any laminate countertop surface can be cut by sharp knifes, accidentally scorched by hot pans, or chipped. This normal wear and tear, or just out-of-date colors, will eventually require a change in your Formica countertops. Before considering a change to granite or other solid surface countertop, consider the advantages of refinishing. Refinishing will almost always save you 30% to 50% over replacement and will save you the time and mess associated with replacement.

Formica Countertops - Can I just paint them?
"Yes"...Formica countertops can be painted and over time people have used latex paints, epoxies, and even cans of enamel spray paint. However, the end result is far from the factory finish you will receive from a refinishing professional. Toronto Tub & Tile Refinishing uses coatings specifically created to restore and refinish Formica, Wilsonart and other laminate countertops. A professional refinished countertop will look better, last longer, and feel better than any attempt at painting a kitchen countertop using DIY refinishing kits. Toronto Tub & Tiles Refinishing is thee only & first company to offer multi-stone flecks in Toronto which are the latest stone-like finishes, available in dozens of designer colors.

Laminate Countertops - Should I replace or refinish?
Laminate countertops are available in many colors and patterns and marketed under brand names like Formica and Wilsonart. Laminate countertops are good choices for kitchen worktops because they are economical, non-porous, and available in many colors. However, laminate counters once they become chipped, cut, worn out, or out-of-style are candidates for refinishing.

If you like the layout of your laminate kitchen counters, then you should consider refinishing. Refinishing can completely restore your laminate countertops to a like-new condition and feel. And dozens of colors and textures are available to you, including a stone look using Toronto Tub & Tiles Refinishing solid or multi-stone fleck finishes.

Laminate Countertops - What is the countertop refinishing process?
Laminate countertops can be painted or they can be refinished. Any type of enamel or latex paint can be sprayed or rolled onto a laminate countertop, but you'll be disappointed unless you have them professionally done. A professional will thoroughly clean the surface, repair knife cuts and chips, apply a special bonding agent, and then apply several coats of a high tech acrylic enamel. A properly refinished laminate countertop will last for many years with everyday use and normal care and cleaning.

Laminate Countertops - What are the advantages of refinishing?
Refinishing laminate countertops will almost always be more affordable than replacement. It will certainly be faster and cleaner to refinish rather than replace. The best way to make a decision is to get quotes for both replacement and refinishing of your laminate countertops. Compare cost, downtime of your kitchen, and the hassle factor of reconstruction, and then decide which option is best for you.

Knife cuts, chips, torn end caps, and de-lamination from repeated water saturation on laminate countertops are impossible to repair. This damage will disappear when a professional refinisher refinishes a kitchen countertop resulting in a restored surface that looks like new.

Laminate Countertops
Advantages	Disadvantages
Non-porous, easy to clean	Can be cut and scratched
Stain and heat resistant	Not easily repaired
Seams become almost invisible	Square edges are out of style
Good color and pattern selection
Countertop Refinishing
Advantages	Disadvantages
Inexpensive	Can be cut and scratched if used without a cutting board
Non-porous, easy to clean
Stain and heat resistant
Seams become almost invisible
Repairable
Corian, Silestone, & cultural marble countertops can also be refinished using our solid color or multi-stone flecks product please call for more information (416) 524-1197