Formatop countertops are very durable, but like any product they can be damaged by abuse, neglect or carelessness. When used and cared for properly, your Formatop countertop will give you years of satisfaction.
Water Damage
Water that is allowed to sit on the countertop for any length of time, especially near miter joints, can penetrate and cause the core to swell and eventually delaminate. Be very careful in areas where sinks, dishwashers, coffee makers or kettles are located on or near a miter joint. To avoid water damage, be sure to wipe off water or other liquids immediately.
Normal Cleaning
In the majority of cases you can clean your Formatop countertop with a clean, damp, non-abrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner.
Rinse with clean water but do not use excess water, especially near miter joints.
Dry the surface with a clean, soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Special Cleaning
For matte or sculptured finishes.
Use a nylon-bristled hand or vegetable brush along with a mild liquid detergent and water solution, or household cleaner.
Clean the countertop with a rotating motion.
Rinse and dry the top with a clean, soft, cotton cloth.
Glue Removal
Any contact adhesive residue on the countertop should be removed by using a reputable, non-flammable, contact adhesive solvent sparingly. Read and follow all instructions and warnings before use.
Paint and Varnish Removal
Use a suitable solvent but use it sparingly. Excessive amounts can delaminate surface. Follow all warnings and instructions. For water-based paints use an ammoniated household cleaner. For stubborn spots use a plastic, non-metallic, non-abrasive pad. Use it gently. NEVER USE steel wool or other abrasive scouring pads. These will scratch the surface of the laminate.
Stains
To remove or minimize stains use a mild, all-purpose, household cleaner and allow it to draw out stain. Blot with clean, damp, non-abrasive, cotton cloth and rinse with cold water. Read and follow all instructions carefully.
Some things can permanently stain the laminate. Newsprint, marking pens, hair dyes, wood stains and other staining agents should be kept away from the countertop. These stains may be reduced by using a paste of baking soda and water to pull out stain. Do not rub. Wipe up paste with clean, damp, non-abrasive, cotton cloth, then rinse and dry.
Periodic application of a self-cleaning wax can help minimize future staining.
CAUTION
Never use cleaners containing acid, alkali, or sodium hypochlorite on the laminate surface. These will mar, etch, corrode, and permanently discolour the laminate. Do not place bottles or items containing these cleaners on the laminate surface. Examples: Drain cleaners, oven cleaners, ceramic cleaners, coffee pot cleaners, tub and tile cleaners, chlorine bleach, lime scale removers and more.
Scratch and Impact Protection
Under normal use your countertop is very durable, but care should be taken to minimize certain conditions.
Use cutting boards, chopping blocks or other protective elements when working on the countertop. DO NOT chop, slice, pound or hammer directly on the laminate surface. Knives or other sharp utensils can slice or scratch surface. Heavy blows from a hammer or meat tenderizer can crack or gouge surface.
Ceramics and abrasive objects can scratch the surface. Use placemats, doilies or trivets to protect surface.
HOT OBJECTS
Do not place hot objects directly on the countertop. Electric skillets, waffle irons, curling irons, hot rollers etc. can damage the surface. Do not iron or place iron on laminate surface. Avoid cigarette contact.
Prolonged exposure to temperatures of 140 degrees F (60 degrees C) or higher may cause the laminate to separate from the core material.