How do I determine the most economical? counter top for a kitchen
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By looking at the prices.
Hi Cynthia, if you countertop is still in good shape but you are wanting to change the color, you can paint it with great results. I painted mine years ago when I could ot afford to replace it.
lightly sand it to rough it up
clean thoroughly with TSP and let dry i
Go to your local hardware/paint store and have them mix up primer and paint in the color you want, apply as directed. Once the final coat is dry, apply a matte or semi gloss seal to it. It will hold up for years, just remember not to set hot pots directly on it
Here are some guides:
https://www.thespruce.com/corian-quartz-and-granite-countertop-1822083
http://usenaturalstone.org/countertop-comparison-chart/
Laminate aka formica will typically be the least expensive. There are so many options out there, shop and compare. Countertops should enhance your kitchen but also require care if you choose a natural stone option.
I cook every single day without fail. My kitchen is a working kitchen, not just for show. Regardless of what you decide, invest in several quality cutting boards to keep your counters in shape and save your knives. I have boards for meat, fish, chicken and fruits and vegetables. Plus a marble slab for pastry and candy making.
Speaking of paint - I had a lifting formica countertop in my previous home and no funds. I could not get under the lifting portions to reglue them but I did proceed with:
Purchased the GREATEST dtm paint at Sherwin Williams per their recommendation for use on my rusting away shed. I used the leftover paint to put a base coat on the formica after cleaning/rinsing. I didn't even sand!
Then I used various paint colors I already owned to paint/dab with a sponge the colors of granite to match my cabinets and floor.
Once satisfied with the colors and density, I rolled on an acrylic food safe poly. I think I put 4-5 coats on after allowing to fully dry. The weight of layers of paint/poly pressed any loose formica (dried glue) down into place!)
The result held up perfectly to kitchen use - I do use cutting boards.
Several years later the house was put on the market and sold the 1st day! I had to tell potential buyers that the countertop was not granite, the paint job was that good! 😎
Laminate would be the most cost effective choice but you should get that water issue squared away first before you do anything, otherwise it'll keep damaging anything you put in. Naomie had a great tip, check Habitat ReStores for materials as they're very inexpensive there. You have to buy it when you see it though as stuff sells fast there.
Go shopping or call for quotes from a cabinet maker
Thanks everyone!