How to Paint Your Kitchen Counters

Kitchen counters can be painted to match your decor.

Painting a kitchen counter is an effective way of giving old or worn-out countertops a fresh and updated appearance. Many people also find painting kitchen counters to be a more cost-effective alternative to completely replacing them. Properly preparing a counter and selecting the right type of paint and materials is important to guaranteeing that the results will last for many years to come. Be sure to also choose a paint color for your counters that complement the rest of your kitchen decor.

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• Soap
• Water
• Cloths
• Sandpaper
• Painter's tape
• Acrylic bonding primer
• Foam paint roller
• Clear acrylic

Instructions

Preparing the Counters

1. Select a paint color and design for your kitchen counters. Choose either a solid color or a faux finish, such as granite or marble.

2. Remove everything off the kitchen counters and thoroughly clean them with soap and water or a nonabrasive cleaner, then dry them with a clean cloth. Counters must be completely free of dirt and oil or the paint will not stick.

3. Use 150-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the kitchen counters, recommends HGTV. This will scuff the surface of the counters, helping the paint to adhere properly.

4. Wipe all dust and debris from the kitchen counters using a clean, damp cloth.

5. Use painter's tape to cover any areas of the counters and surrounding surfaces that you do not wish to get paint on.

Painting the Counters

1. Prime the counters with a single coat of 100-percent acrylic bonding primer used for gloss or high-gloss surfaces, recommends HGTV.

2. Allow the first coat of primer to dry completely before applying a second coat. Allow the second coat of primer to dry thoroughly as well.

3. Apply a single coat of latex satin or semi-gloss enamel paint to your kitchen counters using a foam paint roller. "This Old House" recommends oil-based enamel paint because it's easier to clean. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely, then apply a second coat of paint. Allow that to dry thoroughly as well.

4. Use two coats of satin or semi-gloss clear acrylic to seal the paint. According to HGTV, higher shine acrylics offer more protection against scratches and wear.

5. Allow the counters to dry completely, then remove the painter's tape.

6. Expect the seal on the kitchen counters to take up to three weeks to cure. During this time, you should avoid rough use and only wipe the counters using a damp cloth, reports HGTV.

References

• HGTV: Painting Your Countertops
• This Old House: Painting Over Laminate