6 Tips for Painting Laminate Countertops

If your laminate countertops in the Greater Columbus Ohio Area are looking a little dated and tired, replacing them might be a costly affair. However, if they are still in good physical and structural condition, you don’t have to toss them, a simple paint job might restore their looks and durability.
In this article today, we will be sharing six tips on how to paint your laminate countertops so you can restore their sheen. Have a look:

1. Surface Preparation

   Paint doesn’t adhere properly to dirty surfaces or surfaces that are partially cleaned. If washing doesn’t get rid of all the surface dirt and grime, consider sanding the surfaces to remove stubborn stains and grime. Subsequently, wash the countertop with hot water and detergent – tri-sodium phosphate is good at removing grease and other residues. Proper washing and sanding create a clean and roughened surface that increase paint adherence while reducing the chances of flaking and peeling.

2. Apply Primer

   Some homeowners and DIY enthusiasts tend to ignore the primer when painting countertops and kitchen cabinets. Paint generally doesn’t stick well to bare surfaces, and enamel is a particularly tricky surface in regards to paint adherence. The primer binds to the laminate surface better than the paint and gives you an even base to apply the paint on. This will ensure that your top coat comes out smooth and lasts much longer.
   Other than improving paint adherence, the primer can also help block unsightly stains and the dark underneath color. This is important if you’re moving from a dark to a bright, light finish –you don’t want the old dark finish bleeding through your new coat of paint. You can also tint your primer with a bit of the new paint to smooth out the transition.

3. Incorporate Texture and Color

   If you really loved the laminate look, you don’t have to ditch it entirely for a flat single-colored paint. You can recreate that look in a different way by using sponges, feathers, and paintbrushes to create surfaces that resemble marble or give a splattered effect to the surface. If you want your countertop to look like granite, use the faux-stone spray paint.
   These variations will add dimension and depth to your countertop. While at it, don’t forget to use a sealer –it minimizes daily wear to your countertop besides preventing the paint from being scratched.

4. Allow Enough Time for the Countertops to Cure.

   After painting has been completed, it will take 3-5 days for the sealer, primer and paint in your countertops to completely cure. It’s therefore important to arrange for an alternative countertop. After the five days have passed, avoid placing heavy equipment (such as a toaster or a microwave) on the newly painted surface for at least one more week.

5. Don’t Splatter

   And if you do, at least cover the other surfaces that you don’t intend to paint. The cabinets bellow your countertops are common culprits, and it’s nearly impossible to remove stray paint once it lands on them. Make sure that you tape and drape plastic cloth over surfaces that are not to be painted.

Bottom Line

Painting your laminate countertops is no doubt the most cost-effective way to restore them compared to replacement. While DIY painting is an option, painting your laminate countertops can be particularly difficult if you don’t have sufficient skills, experience, and tools to handle the job.
The best way to restore and make sure your countertops last for a little while longer is by hiring a professional painting contractor. They have done this countless times and will offer maximum value for each dime you invest in the project.