Can Laminate Countertops Get Wet?

Can Laminate Countertops Get Wet

Countertops are a big investment for any homeowner. That is why it is important to choose the right type of countertop for your needs. There are many different types of countertops available, including granite, marble, and laminate. 

Laminate countertops are a popular choice because they are affordable and durable. But can laminate countertops get wet? Keep reading to find out.

So, can laminate countertops get wet? While the surface of laminate countertops is waterproof and will not get wet, the support (particleboard) used underneath the laminate can get wet and swell. This can cause the laminate to peel or warp. 

However, if the laminate is carefully and professionally installed, it can withstand water exposure without any issues. And also if the laminate countertop is not damaged, it will not absorb any water or get wet. 

In short, laminate countertops can get wet, but if they are installed properly and are not damaged, there should be no problems. So go ahead and wash your dishes or take a bath without fear! Just be sure to dry the countertop off afterward.

How Does Water Affect Laminate Countertops

Countertops are a big investment for any homeowner. That is why it is important to choose the right type of countertop for your needs. 

There are many different types of countertops available, including granite, marble, quartz, and laminate – which are all affected by water in different ways. 

Here is how water tends to affect laminate countertops if they are damaged or not properly installed.

Swelling And Bulging

If your laminate countertop is not properly installed water from sinks can seep onto the particleboard installed underneath the laminate. This will cause the particleboard to swell and can eventually lead to laminate bulging, peeling, or warping. 

This happens because the particleboard is not meant to be constantly wet and will not dry quickly. Particleboards are made up of small wood chips and when they get wet, the glue that binds them together starts to break down. 

The more water that is exposed to the particleboard, the worse it will be for your countertop. So if you are worried about damaging your laminate countertops, make sure to always use a waterproof sealant on any joints or seams.

Also, make sure there are no openings that could allow water or other liquids to get into your countertop. For example, if your faucet is not properly sealed, water can drip down the neck of the faucet and seep underneath your countertops. 

So if you have a laminate countertop, it is important that it is installed properly or by a professional. 

Stains And Discoloration

Laminate countertops are known for being easy to clean and maintain. However, if they are damaged or not installed correctly, they can be susceptible to staining and discoloration. 

This is because if water seeps underneath the laminate, it will not dry quickly and can cause the adhesive that binds the laminate to the particleboard to break down. 

This will leave your countertop exposed to dirt and grime, which can cause unsightly stains over time. 

The unfortunate part is once staining begins, it is very difficult to stop it unless the laminate is removed and the particleboard thoroughly dried or changed. 

But before thinking of removing the laminate or the particleboard installed underneath, you can try to clean the stain with a mild detergent and water. But if the stain persists, you may have to consider replacing your countertops.

Rot The Particleboard

Another common water-damage issue with laminate countertops is rot. If the particleboard installed underneath the laminate gets wet and does not dry quickly, it can start to rot. 

The rot will usually weaken the particleboard and can eventually lead to it breaking or crumbling. 

Once the particleboard rots, there is no stopping it and the countertops will have to be replaced. 

So if you are going to install a laminate countertop in your home, make sure that the surface it is being installed on is completely dry and that there is water seeping underneath the laminate.

Smells

In addition to the rot that will occur if water seeps underneath the laminate, there is also a chance for your countertops to start smelling. 

This happens because of the bacteria that will grow in the moist and dark environment that is created when water seeps under the laminate. 

The smell can be very unpleasant and difficult to get rid of. So it is important to clean any water spills as soon as they happen and to use a sealant on all joints and seams. If the smell persists, you may need to replace your countertops.

Mold Growth

Mold growth is another potential issue that can occur if water seeps underneath the laminate. 

Mold will grow in any environment that is dark, moist, and has a food source. So if there is any water damage to your countertops, it will create the perfect conditions for mold to grow. 

Mold can cause a variety of health problems, so it is important to remove any mold growth as soon as you see it. 

If the mold growth is extensive, you may need to replace your countertops.

How To Protect Laminate Countertops From Water?

Now that we know all of the possible ways that water can damage laminate countertops, let’s take a look at how to protect them from these things. 

Sealant

The best way to protect your countertops is by using a sealant on all joints and seams. This will help to prevent any water from seeping underneath the laminate. 

You should also try to keep your countertops dry as much as possible. So if you are going to be doing any cooking or baking, make sure to wipe up any spills right away. 

Cleaning Products

When cleaning your countertops, make sure to use a mild detergent and water. Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage or weaken your laminate surface causing water to seep in. 

If you are using a cleaning product that is ammonia-based, make sure to rinse the countertops with water afterward. 

And be careful not to let any of your cleaning products fall on the countertop surface, as they can also damage the laminate. 

Drying Clothes

When drying your countertops, use a soft cloth and make sure to get into all of the seams and joints. Do not use a harsh brush or anything that may damage the laminate. 

If you are using a hairdryer to dry your countertops, be sure to keep it on low heat and hold it at least 18 inches away from the surface. 

Removing Laminate

If you do have water damage and the laminate needs to be replaced, it is a fairly easy process. First, remove all of the appliances and hardware from the countertop. 

Then use a razor blade or sharp knife to cut around the edge of the laminate. Be very careful not to damage the surface of the countertop. 

Once the laminate is removed, sand down any rough edges and clean the surface of the countertop. Then apply a new coat of sealant to all joints and seams. Finally, reattach the appliances and hardware.

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, if you are worried about water damage and want to protect your laminate countertops, there are a few things you can do. 

First, make sure the surface that your countertops are being installed on is completely dry. Second, use a sealant on all joints and seams. 

Next, never use harsh cleaners. And finally, clean any water spills as soon as they happen. If you follow these tips, you can help to protect your laminate countertops from water damage.

Thanks for reading this article! If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. And be sure to check out our other articles for more home improvement tips.

Kobby

Hi! I’m Kobby, one of the co-owners of favoredstoneguides.com and the newest house owner in town. I’m a huge fan of most things natural. Over here on this site, I'm happy to share all the exciting hacks, tricks, and tips I have learned and continue to learn each day about taking care of natural stones.

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