How to Paint Laminate Countertops

Faded, old laminate countertops can spoil the entire look of your kitchen. Getting a new one can be quite expensive. Instead of spending a few hundred to thousand dollars on buying a new one, the cheapest option is applying a fresh coat of paint to your existing laminate countertop. Often, a new color changes the look and feel of your entire kitchen. Therefore, giving a make over to your old laminate countertop is definitely a good idea. You can even consider doing this job on your own. Though, the idea might sound intimidating at first, the end results will definitely make you proud.

You can begin your project by buying the requisite materials, which include:

• Sandpaper or fine steel wool
• Detergent (for cleaning the countertop)
• Denatured alcohol (for removing greasy residues)
• Oil-based primers
• Oil-based paints
• Marine varnish or polyurethane
• Masking tape or painter's tape
• Paint pad, rollers and brushes
• Paint tray/pail

After, you are equipped with all the necessary materials, the next step is the cleaning of the laminate kitchen countertop. Use a detergent solution and clean it thoroughly. Clean the crevices for the dirt and grime. You may also use an ammonia based cleaner for effective cleaning. Clean the countertop with a rag dipped in denatured alcohol. Rub the surface with a sandpaper or steel wool, so that it loses its luster. Tape the edges of the surface as well as the sinks and walls, to prevent the paint from trickling onto them.

The next step is to apply a bonding primer to the countertop. The function of the primer is to make the paint stick to the non porous surfaces of the countertop. You can choose from XIM 400, Sherwin-Williams PrepRite or Zinssers Bin, which are considered superior quality bonding primers. Strictly follow the manufacturers instructions displayed on the primer. The primer takes about 24 hours to set. It has a very strong odor, so allow proper ventilation and if possible isolate the room from rest of the house.

Consider painting, only after the primer is set properly. Select a color that will work well with rest of the kitchen. Though, applying a shade of the existing color won't harm, it will lack the element of novelty. Hence, if you wish to change the look of your kitchen, opt for a new and fresh color. Apply a thin layer of coat and allow it to dry. Similarly apply the next two coats with sufficient drying time between them. You can use your creativity to make different patterns or designs on the countertop.

Remove the tape when the paint has dried properly. Have a look at your work and feel proud! However, your job doesn't end here. You still need to polish the surface. For that, rub the surface slightly with sandpaper or wipe it with a damp cloth. Then apply the coats of varnish or polyurethane, to render luster to the laminate countertop. Marine varnish protects the countertop from water.

Paint will no doubt prove to be a quick fix for your countertop, but if you want your laminate countertop to last longer, there are certain measures that you should take.

• Never chop vegetables or fruits directly on the countertop. Use a chopping board.
• Never place hot utensils or pots directly on the countertop, use a stand or a towel underneath.
• Always keep the surface dry, as frequent contact with water can damage the paint

If you take all the necessary precautions, you can expect your paint job to last for years. In case of chipping or scratches, a light touch up is all that your laminate countertop needs.