Can I paint my laminate countertops?

Question

I would love to get new countertops but they aren't very cheap. I have heard of painting them but how does that work? Any suggestions to update the look of my boring counters would be great. Thanks!

Answer 1

Counter tops are not that dear. I would replace them as paint will continually chip and flake and scratch.  You will hate that more than you hate what you have now.

Answer 2

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Paint-L...

Make sure you use one of the recommended primers in the article.

Answer 3

1) Yes you can.

2) For best results, you have to use a special paint.

3) Even the special paint is not that durable.

If they are not "post formed" and the laminate is still firmly adhered, you can cover them with new laminate.  Although it can be done with a hand saw and file, a router and flush cut bit makes it much easier.  You'll need to clean and rough up the existing laminate to get it to stick with contact cement.

Answer 4

No not really

Answer 5

You'd have to sand the counter tops to get a rougher profile for the paint to grab hold.  I'm assuming a primer underneath then a good enamel......even a marine type paint that can withstand water, etc.  Defininately time to talke to several different paint stores......talk to the old guys,not the young studs.  

Read up on do it yourself tiling for counter tops.  That may be within you skills.  Other option is the overlayment countertops where they make something that fits over your existing countertop.  No, not cheap, but much better looking and longer lasting than paint.

Answer 6

You can do it but I'd recommend against it.  No matter what you paint it with it will need to be redone from time to time.

As a paint contractor I've run into this question before.  If you simply must paint the counter top, do this.  

1) start by being sure that the surface is clean and dry.

2) Use a primer made by Glidden called "GRIPPER"  It is a latex primer that will stick to your counter top.   Best to make a small test spot.  Let it dry over night and see if you can easily scratch it off with your finger nail. If not then you can prime the whole counter top.

3) Use a top coat that is recommended for the type of surface you are going  to paint.  IN other words don't use regular wall paint. It will not work for your application

Answer 7

With no offense meant at all, I answer so many "CAN I?" questions. The answer often is "Certainly" followed by, "But you may be dissatisfied."

   First of all, and beyond can you, is your notion to PAINT a surface that will not only endure a lot of abuse, but also probably come in contact with food substances. Obviously you could have cutting boards, etc.

   Without knowing at all, how you define "Cheap" or any budget limits, or skill levels, you could replace the MICA.

   You can do the SCUFF and ROUGH and waste $$$ on paint, OR even attempt the S&R and Mica over.

   Not to dampen your notion, I suspect in any case, removal of the MICA at least, might be a better alternative, or a new substrate applied over and then your choice of a new top finish.

Steven Wolf

Just my two "sense"