How to Paint a Laminate Countertop

If you are remodeling you know that it can get expensive. If you have a tight budget, then painting your laminate countertops could save you a little money. To paint your laminate countertops you will need a few things before you get started.

Materials:

200 grit sandpaper
Paint brushes
2 Foam rollers
Rags
Sponge (optional)
Artist paintbrush
Kilz or other brand of primer
Latex paint (one or more colors)
Acrylic glaze (optional)
Clear acrylic sealer coating or Polyurethane

First start off by sanding your countertop with 200 grit sandpaper. This will help the paint stick better to the surface. After you have sanded down the countertop, thoroughly clean the surface with a damp rag. Make sure that all residue has been removed. Your countertop needs to be completely dry before painting. Pour your paint into a pan and with a foam roller apply two coats of Kilz or other primer. Be sure to let the primer dry completely between coats. Then, apply one or two coats of acrylic paint with a foam roller and let it dry between coats. If you desire a shiny finish, then I suggest you use a latex paint with a glossy finish. Make sure that the surface dries
completely before the next step.

If you are not painting a design on the surface of your countertop, then you can skip this section. However, if you want a textural look to your countertop, you can use a variety of techniques. Start off with mixing one part paint to one part glaze. You can apply this with a rag dabbing it in the paint and blotting it onto the surface. Do not overload your rag with paint. You may also try a sponge for a different look. Another idea is to paint a design with a stencil or just freehand something onto your countertops. If you desire a speckled splatter look, then you can use one or more paint colors. Use a still brush or artist paintbrush and flick the brush to splatter the paint onto the countertop. This can be time-consuming if you plan to cover the entire surface. Once again let this dry completely.

Next apply two coats of water based polyurethane or clear acrylic sealer. You can apply another coat if you desire this will help protect your painted surface. Remember to let the sealer dry between each coat. I recommend that the sealer dries overnight before placing any object on the countertop.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you should not place hot containers on your countertops. Use pot holders for hot items instead. Don't clean your countertops with harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasives. If you scratch the surface it can easily be removed. Lightly sand the area and roll one coat of polyurethane or sealer over the mark.

resources:

http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/how-to-paint-a-laminate-countertop/index.html