How to Refinish Arborite Counter Tops

Painting an arborite counter top can be completed with a paintbrush or roller.

Arborite counter tops are extremely durable, but over time the color of the counter top may become out of date or excessive wear and tear may make the counter top unsightly. Replacing the entire counter top can be expensive and time consuming. Refinishing an arborite counter top with melamine paint is an alternative solution to traditional counter top replacement. Refinishing provides the counter top with a fresh appearance, a change of color and keeps money in the homeowner's pocket.

Things You'll Need

• Counter top cleaner
• Rags
• Fine sandpaper
• Tinted primer
• Fine bristle brush or paint rollers
• Epoxy counter top paint
• Counter top finish

Instructions

1. Clean the counter top thoroughly before applying the primer. Use a cleaner that is able to dissolve and remove oil and any food residue.

2. Lightly sand the counter top with a fine grade of sandpaper. Be careful not to sand one spot of the counter excessively. The sanding will help the primer to adhere to the counter top. Use a rag to wipe off any residue left from the sanding.

3. Apply the tinted primer with a fine bristled paint brush. Spread the primer evenly across the counter top and the backsplash. The tinted primer will help enhance the color of the paint. Allow the primer to dry completely.

4. Mix the paint for the counter top according to the manufacturer's directions immediately prior to applying the paint to the counter top. This type of paint has epoxy in it which requires it be mixed with the active agents. The paint must be applied to the counter top within four hours of it being mixed.

5. Apply the paint to the counter top with a paint roller or fine bristled paint brush. Take care to spread the paint evenly across the counter top.

6. Apply a second coat after the first coat of paint has been allowed to set up for an hour. Once all of the coats of paint have been applied, the painted arborite counter top must be allowed to cure for a week before use.

7. Apply a food safe finishing coat to the freshly painted arborite counter. The finishing coat will seal the counter and help to improve its durability.

References

• Kitchen Countertops: Tips for Painting Kitchen Countertops
• House Smart: Spruce Up Arborite Countertop with Melamine Paint