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What Is Countertop Paint?

M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet

As its name suggests, countertop paint is paint that can be applied to existing countertops, allowing homeowners to give cabinetry a facelift without spending a significant amount of money. It is generally available in a number of shades and can be used on many different types of countertops. In order to produce a smooth, even finish when using countertop paint, users should follow all steps indicated on the packaging, from properly prepping countertops to observing the recommended drying times to applying an appropriate sealant.

Countertop paint is a home improvement product that allows homeowners to change the appearance of their countertops without actually replacing them, a project which can be expensive and time-consuming. The paint can be purchased at many hardware shops and home improvement stores, and is typically available in a number of different hues, from basic neutrals to trendier, more colorful shades. It is even possible to purchase countertop paint kits that mimic the appearance of granite, although using these kits usually involves several more steps than required when applying a solid shade.

Countertop paint is a home improvement product that allows homeowners to change the appearance of their countertops without actually replacing them.
Countertop paint is a home improvement product that allows homeowners to change the appearance of their countertops without actually replacing them.

A number of different types of countertop materials can be treated with countertop paint. The paint works well with laminates, wood, tile, marble, and plastic. In order to stand up to the heavy use usually sustained by countertops, most countertop paint formulations are easily washable and difficult to chip, and many are designed to resist mold. It should be noted, however, that this paint may be damaged by exposure to extreme heat, and may become scratched if sharp knives are used directly on countertop surfaces.

Primers for high-gloss surfaces should be applied to laminate countertops before painting.
Primers for high-gloss surfaces should be applied to laminate countertops before painting.

To achieve the best possible results when refinishing counters with countertop paint, users should take care to follow the steps outlined in a product’s instructions. Depending on its material, for instance, a countertop may need to be sanded before painting begins. Users should also apply primer, paint, and acrylic sealant as directed, and should observe the recommended drying time before moving on to the next step. Failure to follow a product’s instructions may result in a finish that is rough, uneven, or discolored. Finally, countertop paint users should keep in mind that even when all directions are followed carefully, existing surfaces which have been repainted may not look as luxurious as new countertops.

Discussion Comments

Animandel

I have a friend who painted her counter tops, and she said I should look into it as a way to give my kitchen a new look. I am always complaining that I am tired of my kitchen, but I refuse to spend the money to buy new counter tops.

I think painting the counter tops could be fun. You can be as wild and bold as you want to be, and the great thing is that no matter how the finished product looks you have the pleasure of having created it yourself. Also, if the counter tops are really hideous then you can paint them again, and again, and again.

Drentel

@Feryll - I've been hearing more about counter top paint lately, but I have my doubts as to whether it is worth the effort to pain a counter top. I think you would do much better to save a little money and wait until you can afford a good butcher block counter top. These are less expensive than granite and quartz, but they are still good quality.

The butcher block also looks good in any kitchen, and these counter tops tend to stand the test of time. The designs of granite counter tops can be so varied that certain ones begin to look dated after a while. A solid butcher block counter top always fits in regardless of what other changes or additions you might make in the future.

Feryll

If we had our choice and money was not an object then we would replace the old counter tops in our kitchen with new granite or quartz ones, but money is a big object, so my girlfriend has come up with the idea of painting the ones we have. The counters are old, but they don't look terrible, just out of date.

It concerns me that this article talks about how the painted counter tops might not look as good as new ones. I worry that the end result may be worse than what we are starting with. Has anyone out there painted counter tops? How did they turn out?

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    • Countertop paint is a home improvement product that allows homeowners to change the appearance of their countertops without actually replacing them.
      By: mrallen
      Countertop paint is a home improvement product that allows homeowners to change the appearance of their countertops without actually replacing them.
    • Primers for high-gloss surfaces should be applied to laminate countertops before painting.
      By: Rob
      Primers for high-gloss surfaces should be applied to laminate countertops before painting.