Wood Laminate Cabinet Shelf Damage

5 years ago

So I live in an apartment and somehow managed to damage the shelf of one of wood laminate cabinets. I think something leaked on there and it bubbled up pretty badly. I cleaned it up and it has been used for the year plus with no issue, but now it has started peeling away and you can see the particleboard underneath. Is there any way to fix this, especially one that almost looks like it never happened.

Featured Answer

cat_ky

5 years ago

You could paint it, with a bonding sealing primer (oil based). Once that is done, give it a couple coats of good quality paint, in whatever color you want. Once that is done, I would try to find a laminate countertop material (not the kind, that you buy in preformed counters, you need the flat thin sheets), and cut to size, so you dont damage what you just fixed.

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Comments (8)

daisychain Zn3b
5 years ago
Can you just pop it out and replace it? Home Depot carries diff sizes of laminate shelves.
Amy Kay
Original Author
5 years ago
I wish I could because that's a really good idea, but it is actually the bottom of the cabinet (I guess shelf isn't entirely accurate).
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ci_lantro
5 years ago
What Cat said only I would use Contact paper. You can find oak-look contact papers. Will be less expensive and easier to cut install.
User
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
The bottom of the cabinet box is a structural member. It takes a lot of moisture to do that type of damage. Not just a damp plate. You not only damaged it’s appearance, you damaged its structural integrity. Thst isn’t going to be disguiseable. The cabinet needs replacing. Confess, and be prepared to lose your security deposit.
party_music50
5 years ago
That looks like a crappy cabinet finish to begin with... like particle board that's been coated with a plastic-feeling coating. If that's what it is then I'd clean it well, smooth it out with a light sanding or whatever works, clean it up again :), then cover it with a matching contact paper. If it's really a decent wood laminate, can you show a closer photo of what the damage looks like?
ci_lantro
5 years ago
The damage appears to be merely superficial, extending not much beyond the plastic layer. Structural integrity of the cabinet has NOT been compromised at this point.

That said, steps need to be taken to prevent more damage going forward. As suggested above...light sanding, primer and new covering...contact paper, laminate, moisture proof shelf liner, etc. And make sure stuff is dry before you stash it in the cabinet.
geoffrey_b
5 years ago
Can you turn the shelf upside-down?