How to Paint Laminate Countertops With Melamine Paint
Melamine paint is a thick, super-sticky paint that adheres well to slick surfaces such as laminate countertops. The paint is particularly suited for use on countertops because on a horizontal surface it is self-leveling, meaning that you can apply this paint with virtually no drips, brush marks or other imperfections. Because the paint is thicker than other paints, it is slightly trickier to work with. The drying time is longer than latex paint, and it will not clean up as easily. The paint will dry to a durable finish that will transform your counters with very little effort and expense.
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Combine trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water according to the ratios suggested on the packaging. Saturate a rag with the solution. Wipe the laminate to remove any dirt and residue.
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Fill dents and scratches in the laminate with wood putty. Put a tablespoon of wood putty on a putty knife and fill the space, scraping the knife across the area to remove excess putty. Allow the putty to dry.
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Sand the entire laminate countertop with medium-grit sandpaper. Create a small amount of texture to the surface to help the primer adhere. Remove the sanding dust with a damp rag.
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Fill a paint pan with a primer suitable for slick surfaces. Apply the primer in a thin, even coat using a smooth foam roller. Let the primer dry for four hours.
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Paint the laminate with melamine paint. Apply the paint following the instructions from the paint manufacturer. The manufacturer will recommend application with a roller or a brush. Apply two thin coats of paint. Let the final coat dry overnight.
References
Tips
- Keep paint thinner on hand when working with melamine paint. Spills and paint splatter should be cleaned up immediately with a rag and a small amount of paint thinner.
Writer Bio
Lisa East Hunter is a consultant and freelance writer in Phoenix. Her background in marketing and technology led her to explore all avenues of writing. She is currently dividing her time between freelance writing and her consulting business. Hunter has a Bachelor of Science in management information systems and marketing.
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- Monkey Business Images Ltd/Valueline/Getty Images
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