Painting An Ugly Bathroom Vanity Counter

Leilani Smith
by Leilani Smith
$30
2 Hours
Easy
Four years ago I painted my bathroom vanity counter, and it is still holding up like a champ. The paint I used hardens into a tough enamel. Acetone seems to be its kryptonite, however, so clean up those fingernails somewhere else.
Looking for a cheaper alternative to remodeling your bathroom? Try a paint-on counter coat.
Here is what my bathroom counter looked like before the project: marbley-beige and stained. Not quite sure what the exact material the countertop is made of but it was ugly.


Before painting, I read all the product reviews. What I found was that some people loved it and some people hated it. I decided it was worth a try and got to work.
First, remove faucets. Mine were so old and calcified, I tossed them right in the trash. If yours are in good condition, set all parts is a box for safe-keeping during the project.


Second, sand entire counter and sink using a fine-grained sandpaper (I used 100 and 120 grit). No need to go crazy here, you just want to rough up the surface so the paint adheres well.


Finally, give the whole surface a thorough scrub-down, removing all grit.
To paint you will need:


-1 quart Rustoleum Countertop Coating


-1 soft roller


- small paint pan


-gloves


You will also want to wear protective clothing. This paint don't mess around. While you're at it, open a window and place a fan in backwards to suck out the fumes.
Take your time with this job. Rushing can lead to paint bubbles. Roll in a slow, steady, continuous line from counter end to counter end without stopping. Otherwise, you will create a smudge.


I will say that the sink was tricky-the paint kept wanting to slide down along the sloped side.


Some air bubbles are inevitable, but they can be sanded down with fine-grit sandpaper once the paint has dried.
Let the countertop dry for an entire week without so much as breathing on it if possible. The manufacturer recommends at least three days, but why take chances. Actually, this is a great project to do right before a vacation. Not only does it allow the countertop enough time to dry undisturbed, it allows you time away from the fumes. This area of the house smelled strong of paint fumes for at least three days afterwards.


Other than the fumes, I was very pleased with the results! So much cleaner looking.


For the full project, follow my blog post link below!
Leilani Smith
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Go
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  1 question
  • Sherry Reitz Diamond Sherry Reitz Diamond on Apr 06, 2017

    Im looking to paint my vanity as well. I tried to click through the link to see the link on your blog but was unsuccessful. Any suggestions? I'm going to pick up the paint & supplies today but would love to see more tips before I get started.


    Thank you!

    Sherry

Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 5 comments
Next