How can I paint a laminate kitchen countertop?

Brenda
by Brenda
  5 answers
  • If you want it to last a while, consider using oil based paint. I painted my bathroom countertop with shellac based primer, latex paint and top coated with polycrylic. It lasted about a year before we replaced it with a wood countertop.

    Clean it well before painting for best results.

  • Renee Vlna Renee Vlna on Aug 21, 2019

    I found the paint tends to chip. I did find great contact paper that makes it look real and made just for counter tops.

  • Robyn Garner Robyn Garner on Aug 26, 2019

    I painted my laminate kitchen counters in faux granite and it lasted perfectly for YEARS. First, clean well and use a deglosser. I also did some light sanding so the paint would grip.


    I had already purchased an oil based "direct-to-metal" paint from Sherwin Williams to paint my shed. I used that paint as the base coat for my faux granite. I HIGHLY recommend you do the same as I believe that base paint and the layers of poly were what made this project impervious to damage (of course use cutting boards, etc. as this isn't really granite).


    Use any colors paint you like in your granite (use real granite as a guide). I used all latex paints. Apply with a natural sea sponge by dabbing each color randomly all over the counter. Build up colors by layers paints. Periodically step back to see if you need any adjustments.


    I then sealed it all with probably 5-6 coats of poly, letting each coat dry a couple of days before recoating.


    As said, this lasted in perfect condition for years. In fact, when I sold the house I had to make sure potential buyers knew it was not really granite - that's how well it turned out!


    Super easy project to do. It only takes maybe 1/2 hour for each layer you add on and that time gets shorter as your layers build up. Have fun and go for it!

  • Deb K Deb K on Apr 03, 2022

    Hi Brenda, here's how I did mine, lasted 10 years till I replaced them, Hope this help[s you out,

    Lightly sand to rough the countertop up

    Go to your paint store, tell them what you are painting, they will pick the proper paint and primer for you, you can even get the primer tinted for a better coverage


    Once you have sanded, clean with TSP, then rinse and dry thoroughly,

    Apply your primer coat, let it dry according to the instructions

    Once the primer coat is dry, apply your paint coat, I would apply 2 or 3 as it will be stronger and thicker

    Once your coats dry, you can apply a matte clear coat, either by spray or roll on, keep a small container of it under your sink for touch ups, (I never touched up) I had my counters like this for 12 years, until I could afford new ones.


    I used a few uncolored glass cutting boards for protection. It held up very well. And only costs you the prices of the materials.

    Good luck!