When considering updating your kitchen, the countertops often come to mind. With the burgeoning price tag attached to replacements, repainting seems like a worthy option.
There are a few things to consider when planning a repaint — first, why do you want to repaint? Is this an impulsive project or part of an ongoing effort to update your kitchen? The answer doesn’t really influence whether or not you should go on with painting, but it can’t hurt to understand your motives. Second, if you’re renting, you should consult with the management about whether your project is approvable or will damage your chances of recouping your deposit. If you own and might sell one day, will your project impact your house’s value positively or negatively? Have you considered other options, such as installing a cheap tile over the existing countertops?
If you decide to go ahead and paint the kitchen countertops, there’s no reason why you can’t do it yourself — after all, you’re in this project because it’s cheaper than replacement, so you may as well find out just how economical this project can be.
Consider ventilation, particularly if your kitchen is fairly closed off. Precautions can be taken to prevent any injuries or discomfort. Cheap paper face masks are a good starting option — they don’t do much, but with this kind of project, extensive protection isn’t necessary. Open any doors and windows and turn on a fan or two to encourage fresh air circulation. This becomes slightly more difficult if it’s very warm or very cold outside, as increased cooling or heating costs become a concern, so if you begin this project during the summer, try it at night when the air is cooler, and if you begin in the winter, check the weather forecast for a comparatively warm day when you’re available and try to paint during the warmest part of the day. This extra bit of effort saves you some expense and can prevent health complications.
The first step in repainting your countertops is to repair them, if repairs are needed. Any holes and cracks should be filled; any escaping laminate should be sealed back down with a quality epoxy. Allow the glue to dry and scrape or sand up any glue drips that remain. After your repairs are complete, lightly sand your countertops surface to remove debris from the countertop and give it some texture for the primer to adhere to.
The third step is to apply primer and allow it to dry completely. Primer is available at most hardware stores and can often even be found at the general-store giants that are always right around the corner. Find one specifically for non-porous surfaces or countertops. Primer serves several purposes: it covers up any remnants of old countertop colors and provides your paint with something other than smooth (or by now, slightly roughed) plastic to stick to, providing later chips and peeling. Primer should be applied in smooth, even coats. Try not to apply it too thickly; if you feel that the layer is too thin, it’s better to allow it to dry and then apply another fresh layer on top of the first one.
At this point, you’re ready to paint. Try an exterior-grade oil-based paint to provide the greatest durability and staying-power, but make sure whatever you select is food safe. Checking for USDA approval isn’t foolproof, but it’s a good place to start. Apply the paint in smooth, even coats. A solid color is a good starting place — consider the theme you want your kitchen to have. Neutral colors have broad, long-lasting appeal and are sure to be congruous with almost any décor. White, in particular, looks clean and inviting. If you’re a bit on the adventurous side, neon shades and other funky colors might better match your personality.
When you’ve applied several smooth layers of your base coat and are satisfied with the coverage, it’s time to consider the next step. Are you pleased with the solid color or are you wanting to add some pattern or texture?
Stencils are a viable option for adding pattern to your newly painted countertops. Cheap stencils can be obtained at most craft stores (and, again, the super-sized general stores) in a variety of sizes and patterns. Select one that you enjoy and apply as-desired with craft paint. A small border along an edge makes a nice option, or you could go for a full-on mélange of kitchen art.
If you choose not to use stencils, texture can be applied in numerous ways — sponges, newspapers, and textured paint rollers are popular options, but use your imagination to achieve the color and look that you’re after. If you’ve used a neutral base color, particularly white, texturing with a strong color that matches your décor can be a good option for livening up the room.
When you’re satisfied with your paint job, the final step is to apply several coats of polyurethane. This protects the paint from chipping or peeling and ensures lasting consistency.
Good luck!
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