If your home still boasts of those old laminate countertops fitted in the 60s, it's time you did something new and interesting to update the look. However, this does not mean that you replace the old countertops completely with new ones! With a little monetary investment and lots of time and labor, you can have these old countertops, looking as good as new!! How do you bring about this miracle? Simply paint over the laminate countertops, with some fresh-looking colors or even create interesting patterns using a bit of your imagination and creativity. Just follow the painting process described below and get going!
STEP 1:
De-grease the surface. Before you begin stripping the countertops as part of the painting process, it is important to de-grease the surfaces thoroughly. Use trisodium phosphate or TSP, as it is known, to remove grease and grime accumulated over a long period. Next, wash the countertops with alcohol to clear away the debris and wipe clean with paper towels.
STEP 2:
Sandpaper the surface. Use sandpaper to roughen the surface of the laminate, this will allow the primer and paint to stick to the surface better. After sanding the surface, wash it again with alcohol and dry-off with paper towels.
STEP 3:
Apply the primer. Check at your local hardware store for any high-quality primer which is specifically meant for shiny or metallic surfaces. Apply the primer evenly across the full countertop and allow it to dry completely.
STEP4:
Paint the countertop. When the primer has completely dried out, use paint meant for laminated surfaces, such as melamine paint in any color of your choice. You need to use a thick-foam paint roller or brush which will give you a smooth finish. Ideally, apply the first coat with a brush and then smoothen it over with a roller to get the best finish. You can opt for a single color which matches the general décor of your kitchen, or use two or more colors in a pattern which is pleasing to the eye. Another option is to use textured paint, which will give an interesting mosaic or stone-like finish to the laminate countertop.
STEP 5:
Apply polyurethane. Once the first coat of paint has dried completely, apply a coat of polyurethane to increase the durability of the paint. Allow it to dry, and then add the second coat of paint. Repeat with the polyurethane and then apply the third and final coat of paint. Ensure that the surfaces are completely dry before applying the next coat of paint or polyurethane.Your old laminate countertops will now sport a fresh and colorful look, at half the cost of a new countertop! Painting the countertops yourself means that you can update the look as often as you want, yet keep the laminate countertops durable and long-lasting.
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