How to Paint Formica

How to Paint Formica How to Paint Formica If you want to give a new, attractive look to your old and worn out Formica top, then painting is the best option to go for. Be it the counter top of apartments, older homes, mobile homes or campers you can give a fresh look to the formica tops by applying good quality paint over it. So, if you want to improve the look of your formica counter top, then simply learn how to paint it. Its easy and also saves money which otherwise you would spend on replacing it.

Instructions

Begin with cleaning the countertop. Remove everything from the counters. You must clear your kitchen for a couple of days, while waiting for the paint to dry. Use ammonia based cleaner to clean the counters. Rinse the area properly and allow it to dry. If you have decided to paint the backsplash too, do this again.
Now with the sandpaper lightly sand the surfaces of the countertops. This will help you remove all the embedded grease and dirt and hence ensure the paint adheres properly to the surface. After the sanding process is over, wipe off the remaining dust with a clean rag.
With the help of painter’s tape, tape off the areas that you don’t want to paint. This tape can be easily removed once the work is complete. Though you can skip this step, but then there could be chances of having paint splash on other areas.
Now apply a good quality primer over the surface area including the non-porous surfaces. Prefer using a foam roller for the purpose but make sure you work slowly so that no air bubbles are formed. Allow the primer coating to dry. Check the instructions directed on the product manual.
Sand once again but this time very lightly. Wipe down the surfaces to remove all dust.
Start painting the formica. Though there are several options available in the market Acrylic latex enamel is one of the best options to try. You can also go for Stone Creations (Rustoleum product). It holds up beautifully and gives a pebbled effect to the surface. Make sure you have at sufficient cans, so that you have plenty of the same color for touch-ups.
Apply the first coat and allow it to dry completely. Now go for the second coating, filling in any gaps that might be there. Let this one dry completely, too. If using Epoxy paint go for a soft-bristled paint brush.
Once the coat painting is dry apply polyurethene with foam roller. Work slowly to avoid air bubbles. This finish can be repeated as per your preference but let each application dry thoroughly before applying the next. You can use your countertop when it is dry.