Nothing can detract from the overall appearance of a kitchen quite like a laminate countertop that is peeling, chipped, scratched or otherwise damaged. Take heart: Minor damage doesn't typically require total replacement. By learning how to make small repairs to your laminate countertop, you can keep it looking great for many years to come; some advice for doing so is highlighted below.Repairing Scratched LaminateScratches mar the surface of a laminate countertop and make it look old and unattractive. You can usually get by without having to replace the laminate by using countertop polish. Such polish can be purchased from laminate wholesalers and is available in a dizzying array of colors. Keep in mind that the polish will have to be reapplied every couple of months.Repairing Chipped LaminateChips in a laminate countertop can be managed with laminate repair paste. This paste is available from laminate wholesalers and home improvement retailers like Lowe's and The Home Depot. Simply follow the directions on the paste to fill in the chips and make your countertop look as good as new.If you can't find a matching color, mix together a few different shades to achieve the right result. Replacing Damaged Laminate EdgesIf the laminate edging on your countertop has become damaged, you will probably have to replace it. Doing so is easy enough. To remove the existing edge, use an iron or a heat gun to soften the adhesive. From there, use a putty knife to pry off the damaged edge. Carefully sand the countertop below. Use adhesive sealant to fix the new laminate edge into place. When done correctly, this repair produces seamless results.Repairing Peeling LaminatePeeling laminate needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. If it's not, it can incur additional damage and may need to be replaced altogether. At the first signs of peeling, use contact cement to secure it back into place. For best results, apply the contact cement to the countertop surface and to the bottom of the peeling laminate. Press it back into place; weigh it down with a heavy book until the cement is completely dry.