Can laminate countertops be painted? If so what type of paint should be used?

Question

I'd like to have a glossy finish.

Answer 1

hiya dianne,

if this is a kitchen counter top you're thinking of painting, please don't do it...while it is true there are several products that'll adhere to properly prepared plastic laminates (with varying degrees of success, btw) ...here are just a few caveats:

the paint system you choose must be impervious to a variety of cleaning solutions, solvents, alcohols etc. (including bleach & vinegar, abrasive scrubs, etc.)

the paint system (prime, intermediate and finish coat) must be able to withstand - and not soften when subjected to - incidental contact with boiling water, sauces, grease, hot coffee spills etc. (the 'not softening' part eliminates most conventional coatings)

the the paint film must also be able to withstand incidental contact with hot skillets, pans, casserole dishes etc. without blistering or softening...(again, most single component conventional coatings are eliminated)...

the paint film must also be able to survive the occasional use as a chopping block when cutting vegetables, fruits, cheese etc. without flaking or chipping into the food product...

finally - and very important - this paint film must not harbor - or provide a food source for - germs, bacteria, mold or mildew which can, and will, affect all food stuff that comes in contact with the paint film.

so, there are paint systems that'll accomodate all of these concerns, but truthfully - by the time you (a) prep the surface as it needs to be, (b) prime with a coating capable of adhering tightly to an impervious surface such as laminate and able to serve as an occasional cutting board without chipping or flaking, (c) finish with a product (or products) that will withstand solvent and abrasive cleaning - not support bacteria growth - and not structurally change when subjected to high heat or extreme temperatures...it'll actually be cheaper - and you'll be much happier if you just install new laminate...

i hope this info helps...good luck

ric

Answer 2

Yup, you sure can. My roommate is repainting the countertops in our kitchen. Unfort. I not sure of the name of the paint, but she did go to Home Depot for it.

Answer 3

their is a plastics paint . go to home depot or Low'es and they will help you