How to Paint Formica Walls

How to Paint Formica Walls
Written By
Ryan Lawrence
Ryan Lawrence
Published: Apr 7, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Before you get started, know the proper techniques that will allow you to combat these complications so you can generate an attractive, long-lasting finish.

Things You Will Need

  • Dish soap
  • Coarse brush
  • Rags
  • Palm sander
  • 120-grit sandpaper
  • Tackcloths
  • Heavy-duty fabric dropcloths
  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Nap roller cover
  • Roller frame
  • 4-inch latex paintbrush
  • Latex bonding primer
  • Interior latex paint
  1. Cover the flooring beneath the Formica walls with fabric dropcloths.

  2. Clean the Formica walls with soap and a coarse brush. Rinse away all soapy residue, using wet rags. Allow the walls to dry.

  3. Sand the Formica wall to promote paint adhesion, using a palm sander loaded with 120-grit sandpaper. Sand until the Formica feels slightly rough to your fingertips.

  4. Wipe down the Formica wall with a tackcloth.

  5. Apply a thin coat of primer to the wall, using the roller. Smooth the primer, using a paintbrush. Work quickly before the primer begins to dry. Watch closely for sags or runs in the primer and smooth these flaws with the paintbrush.

  6. Wash the brush with water. Allow the Formica to dry for three hours.

  7. Apply two thin coats of paint in the same manner as you did the primer. Allow two hours of dry time between coats.

The Drip Cap

  • If you want to paint your Formica walls, consider two factors.
  • Clean the Formica walls with soap and a coarse brush.
  • Watch closely for sags or runs in the primer and smooth these flaws with the paintbrush.
  • Wash the brush with water.

Photo Credits

sandpapier image by Thomas Aumann from Fotolia.com

sandpapier image by Thomas Aumann from Fotolia.com

Ryan Lawrence

Ryan Lawrence is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado. He has been writing professionally since 1999. He has 10 years of experience as a professional painting contractor. Lawrence writes for High Class Blogs and Yodle. He has a…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.