Can old worktops be painted, how can I make them look good without replacing?

Question

They are melamine (rounded front) marble effect. One length has been damaged and repaired but the repair doesn't match
colourwise.

Answer 1

Fun user name btw.



With all due respect and certainly agreeing with those in this example; I answer many "Can I?" questions. Almost always my answer is "Certainly" THEN folloed by; "But you may not be satisfied."



Beyond the fact that the current substance was never designed to accept paint, you'll probably get answers that say SURE sand it rough/ use epoxies/ etc. This same issue applies to tile/ formica/glass.



Beyond the fact that it isn't a good idea because of the eventual result; it's not a good idea in that they are WORK TOPS; even to the point of perhaps coming in contact with food products. Certianly it's your choice; but I'd not ever want to combine the two.



There are options of course, but replacement of the melamime would be less than EASY, for a DIY; especially with a bull nose front on the tops.



Steven Wolf

Answer 2

If you do decide to rough it up and spray paint it, I recommend covering with a sealer. I like polyurethane, but most any durable sealer will work.



Note: the finish won't last long on a worktop, if it's actually used as a worktop.

Answer 3

You can paint them but i wouldnt advise it.Whatever paint you put on(after using a melamine primer)will just chip off eventually as it will only sit on the surface of the worktop.

Answer 4

Don't paint it will just mean doing it properly later on!

You can get worktops pretty reasonable, they will look so much better than painted.

The paint will not last, all those things bumping and scraping along them?!

Answer 5

Better than paint the tops, look into the granite finishes they are inexpencive and look great, they whare well , I have used this on out door steps and side walks here in Ottawa , have not had a problem for the cost you can,t go wrong,

Answer 6

er... you cant use paint, not without keying the whole surface, or itll peel off...



seriously. i suggest you use either a contact adhesive surface like fablon. or buy some good quality smooth flooring, and evo stick it.. or buy a new worktop... or, use a router, and recess the area and drop either a piece of marble in there, or goto a stonemason and get a bit of polished granite... or buy a sheet of stainless steel. 0.5mm -1mm, and fit that... ive even used 12" smooth floor tiles...



whatever you use, its got to be scrubbable, and resistant to sharp knives... hygiene....

Answer 7

paint them again