How to Paint Formica Laminate Countertops
One way to update your kitchen is to replace old Formica countertops with marble or granite countertops. In some kitchens this can be done relatively easily, but in others it means tearing out the old cabinets as well. A less expensive option is to paint your countertops. While this can be a bit time-consuming, the results can be worth the effort.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Heavy-duty cleanser
- Sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Bonding primer
- Paint
- Paint pan or tray
- Polyurethane
- Small paint rollers
- Sponge brushes
- Rags and cleaning sponges
- Foam brushes
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1
Clean the countertop thoroughly, using a borax powder solution and sponge, and really scrub it. Use a clean rag to rinse. Make sure the surface is completely clean, rinsed, and dried.
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2
Lightly sand the countertop to rough up the surface; this will help the primer adhere. Wipe down the area with a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust.
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3
Apply a good bonding primer such as Zinssers Bin, XIM 400, or Sherwin Williams Prep-Rite using a small paint roller. Allow the primer to dry completely according to package directions. Sand again and use a tack cloth.
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4
Apply the paint, again using small rollers. You will need at least three coats of paint, since the countertop is a heavily used area and must be protected from scratches and chips. Your paint selection depends upon your color choice and whether you intend to do any decorative effects. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely.
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5
Apply two to three coats of polyurethane, using foam brushes. Sand lightly and clean with a tack cloth between coats.
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1
Tips & Warnings
In general, medium- to high-gloss paints will brighten your kitchen best, but the gloss may depend on whether you are doing decorative painting.
Wear a dust mask on your face when sanding. Wear protective gloves while working with heavy cleaners and while working with polyurethane. Have as much ventilation as possible while applying the polyurethane coats. Treat your newly painted countertops more gently now: do not place hot pots directly from the stove onto the countertop; do not use abrasive cleansers. Keep in mind that the new "surface" is paint, not Formica laminate.
