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The Daily Insight

What paint to use on laminate countertops

Author

Olivia Owen

Published Mar 08, 2026

Many recommend a water-based acrylic primer, paint and top coat. Acrylic paint dries to provide the hard surface needed for heavy-use areas like countertops, while water-based acrylic paint cleans up with water and is low on odors.

Is it worth it to paint laminate countertops?

First of all, if I had it to do all over again, I would most definitely still paint my countertops. Changing the dated laminate without the expense of actually replacing the countertops was completely worth it. … Once the sealer was added, the shine and dimension really softened the color variation in the paint finish.

What kind of paint do you use on Formica?

Products and tools you’ll need to paint Formica Semi-gloss or high-gloss enamel paint – Choose a Formica paint color to brighten and modernize your space. Kitchen counter degreaser – A critical step to ensure you have a clean surface to work on.

How do you prepare laminate countertops for painting?

  1. STEP 1: Prepare the work area. Whether you’re redoing the cabinets in the bathroom or the kitchen, start the job by prepping your space correctly. …
  2. STEP 2: Clean the laminate surface throughly. …
  3. STEP 3: Lightly sand the laminate. …
  4. STEP 4: Apply two coats of primer. …
  5. STEP 5: Apply two coats of paint. …
  6. STEP 6: Seal to finish.

Why you shouldn't paint countertops?

Countertops. It can be tempting to paint countertops to repair a scratch or if you’re looking for a new look in the kitchen or bathroom, but paint isn’t the answer. Most countertop surfaces are difficult to paint correctly and food can easily stain painted surfaces.

Can you paint a countertop with regular paint?

If you prime your countertop, however, you can use an oil- or water-based latex house paint to cover your countertop. … When painting, you can use either a roller or brush to apply it. If you use a brush, however, be careful not to leave brush strokes.

How can I make my laminate countertop look better?

  1. Paint right over it.
  2. Cover it with contact paper.
  3. Re-finish it with a faux-marble look.
  4. Skim coat it with concrete.

Can you spray paint laminate countertops?

When you are desperately wanting to give your laminate countertops – in kitchen or bathroom – a new look, spray paint offers an affordable option over epoxy paint. … The best method for giving your laminate countertops a makeover is to rip them out and install new countertops.

Can you paint laminate countertops with chalk paint?

Make sure that your laminate countertops do not get painted on your walls or cabinets by taping the edges. You can paint one THIN coat of chalkboard paint on your countertops.

Can you paint laminate?

First, laminate can be painted over. It’s not difficult (at all), you just need to do it right. … Second, laminate is more durable than wood when it comes to scratches and dings. Most likely a piece with a laminate top will be in better condition.

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How much is epoxy paint for countertops?

Countertop MaterialBest MethodCost per Sq.ft. (Labor Included)QuartzEpoxy Coating$4 – $8WoodEpoxy Coating$4 – $8MarbleEpoxy Coating$4 – $8GraniteEpoxy Coating$4 – $8

Is there a paint for Formica countertops?

Use a paint with an epoxy base to paint your formica countertops. It dries up to give a harder cost and is more durable and will last longer than any other regular paints. Another advantage of using epoxy paints is that they are available in many colors and styles.

Is there a difference between laminate and Formica?

The truth is, laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are basically the same; laminate is the material while Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both brands come in a wide range of colors and patterns and are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters.

Can you use chalk paint on Formica?

Can Formica Be Painted With Chalk Paint? nothing! The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint adheres well to laminate surfaces. As long as I clean my piece, I can apply the paint.

How long does rustoleum countertop paint last?

How Long Will Rust-Oleum Countertop Transformations® Last? With normal use and proper care, your refinished surfaces will last for years. 10.

How long does it take for countertop paint to dry?

It dries to the touch in 24 hours, but it takes 3 days to cure, so make sure you don’t plan on doing it close to having to make a holiday dinner (if you’re painting your kitchen counter). Pros: No priming necessary. Unless your surface is totally smooth, no sanding is necessary either.

How do you paint a sink countertop?

Clean the countertop with warm soap and water and dry it with a soft cloth. Lightly sand the counter with 150-grit sandpaper and wipe off any dust with a damp cloth. Prime the entire surface with 100 percent acrylic primer. Use a flash-bond primer that will stick to the laminate and to the paint.

How do you update a laminate countertop on a budget?

Use a Countertop Paint Kit You can purchase paint kits that allow you to update the look of your countertops. The product is simple to use and can give you the look of stone for less than hundred dollars. If you want a new look, but don’t want to spend a lot of money, painting your countertops is a great option.

Can Formica be painted?

Formica® Countertops – Can I just paint them? “Yes“… Formica® countertops can be painted and over time people have used latex paints, epoxies, and even cans of enamel spray paint.

How can I brighten my laminate countertop?

To make the countertop shine, spray them with a vinegar solution. Mix 2 cups water with 1 tablespoon vinegar in a spray bottle (Image 1 below). Spray the countertop down, and allow the solution to sit for 2 minutes (Image 2 below). Finally, wipe the counter clean.

What's the best paint for painting countertops?

Acrylic paint dries to provide the hard surface needed for heavy-use areas like countertops, while water-based acrylic paint cleans up with water and is low on odors.

Can rustoleum chalk paint be used on laminate?

Chalked paint can be applied to most surfaces such as bare and finished wood, glass, ceramic, metal, and laminate. 2.

Can you use Dixie Belle paint on countertops?

It is easy peasy to change up your home decor with Dixie Belle Paint. You can paint your cabinets, counters, floors, ceilings, and any furniture!

Can you paint camper countertops?

Painting the countertops in your pop up can be an easy way to change the whole look of your camper. And if you do it right, it won’t cost much. … The countertops turned out beautifully, and they’ve held up so well over time. You see how we did them here.

Can you paint over textured laminate countertops?

Countertop paint should work fine on textured laminate, though the texture will tend to show through. You may be able to remove some or all of the textured look by applying several coats of countertop primer or paint, sanding lightly with fine sandpaper between each coat to fill in the textured surface.

Will epoxy paint stick to laminate?

The surfaces that you can directly apply your flood coat of epoxy to include: MDF Board. Formica. Laminate.

Can you use stone spray paint on countertops?

Spray Paints Stone Coat Countertops carefully selected these Rust-oleum Spray Paints for their compatibility with Stone Coat Epoxy. Use Spray Paint when creating natural veins, tinting epoxy in mixing cups, add colors to your epoxy edges before your pour. … Spray again then mix to achieve desired color.

Can you paint laminate without sanding?

So yes! You can paint laminate furniture without sanding! Keep in mind though, if you have any scratches or spots of nail polish (like I did), you’ll want to sand those areas so you have a nice smooth surface for your paint.

How can I paint laminate without sanding?

  1. Step 1: Clean. …
  2. Step 2: Prime. …
  3. Step 3: Paint with emulsion of choice. …
  4. Step 4: Varnish. …
  5. Step 5: Wait for the eggshell or varnish to cure and harden. …
  6. Step 6: Admire your project.
  7. BONUS TIP: Cover your paint tray with cling film before pouring your paint on it.

What kind of primer should I use on laminate?

Zinsser Primer for Laminate Furniture Zinsser BIN Primer – This primer is shallac based and sticks to all surfaces – including laminate furniture – without sanding. This primer goes on in smooth, thin coats. It drys very quickly, and it works with any top coat, including water-based latex paint.

How can I update my countertops without replacing them?

  1. Tile Style.
  2. A Coat of Paint.
  3. Penny for your thoughts.
  4. Chalkboard countertops.
  5. Make contact.
  6. Stone spray paint.