Formica type query

[chasroberts]

As part of an ongoing refit, I am looking to redo all the work surface tops in the galley. At present they are covered in what I think is a Formica type product which is starting to show it's age.

Before I go searching round for suppliers is there anything more suitable/modern to recover the galley surfaces which appear to be marine ply and in reasonable condition. I have laid formica before so know what's involved but has anybody found easier or more suitable products for the same job.

As always, thanks in advance for all your inputs.

Chas

 

[auditdata]

I used ColorCore a new industrial hard wearing Formica .

 

[pvb]

Can't think of anything much easier than Formica (or similar), and with reasonable care it'll last for years. In kitchens, the other thing that's used for worktop reconditioning is thin (6mm or so) granite etc.

 

[awol]

The Formica that I remember was about 3mm thick and relatively easy to work with hand tools. The only stuff I could find was about 1mm thick, intended for thermo-forming, and was very brittle and thin sections were very fragile. I was told thicker laminate was available to order but the minimum quantity was eye-watering. I tried sourcing off-cuts from shopfitters and the like but gave up and ended up with a 2nd rate job that I am not proud of. Another mistake was to use re-positionable Evo-stick which may have made fitting easier but, possibly because of me, did not provide the bond I needed.

I wish you luck and would be pleased to hear how you get on 'cos my boat really needs a better job doing.

 

[zikzik]

Look up Vohringer board. It is used in motor caravan convesions etc. it is laminated plywood. Once edged it might prove ideal and lightwieght.

 

[chasroberts]

Had a look at the Vohringer board but at 15mm and 22kg per board it's way too thick and heavy. Thanks for the thought but I'm just looking to resurface existing ply.

Thanks to all for your thoughts, keep 'em coming.....

Chas

 

[saltylegs]

I redid mine and found the best match for a 1979 sigma was "ballast laminate" like formica but thinner and generally used on the undeside of formica faced ply.
It cost less than a tenner for an 8 x 4 sheet that could be rolled for easy transport and I glued to ply to match existing finish.
http://i1143.photobucket.com/albums/n630/saltylegs/-182495704070C2139B.png

 

[Tranona]

I sourced laminate from a kitchen worktop manufacturer. You can usually find one locally - there are 3 in Dorset. I managed to get a near perfect match for my Bavaria to make a cover for the cooker for a fiver. You can get them to cut to size as well which saves a lot of work and reduces the risk of damaging the edges. Always use the industrial strength contact adhesive.

 

[chasroberts]

Thanks everybody for your input. Formica it is then......

Chas