Should You Be Painting Your Bathroom Countertops? - Caesarstone

Painting bathroom countertops is tricky. If done properly, it looks beautiful. If done poorly, there could be many issues.

If you have a paint-friendly countertop material (i.e. laminate – don’t paint high-quality materials like quartz) and are willing to take the time to properly paint your bathroom countertops, it could be a worthwhile project. But if you already know you won’t be able to do it correctly, consider a different method of upgrading your bathroom.

If you are looking to make an investment in your bathroom countertops for years to come, opting for a premium quartz option from Caesarstone can ensure you won’t have to even think about sprucing up your counter.

With incredible durability and longevity, ease of maintenance, and stunning styles and finishes, quartz is worth the investment in the long run. Consider a colour from Caesarstone like 5141 Frosty Carrina for a classic veined white bathroom countertop that is both practical and luxurious.

That being said, if you currently have a countertop that can be painted, here are a few tips on how to do it, as well as arguments for and against painting bathroom countertops.

Pros and Cons of Painting Bathroom Countertops

The Good 

Bathroom countertops are expensive to replace and many homeowners are looking for cheaper alternatives to breathe new life into them.

Fortunately, paint is a much more affordable means of doing so than something like modular granite covers. It’s also much easier to accomplish without the help of a professional.

Additionally, with paint, there are a greater number of options in comparison to laminate or stone. This makes it a great option for homeowners interested in non-traditional countertops.

Finally, paint colour can be changed much more easily than changing entire countertops. Changing the look in a few years won’t be a large investment.

The Bad 

Paint, if done poorly, can be prone to damage and will not look great in the long run.

Moisture and heat are harmful to most forms of paint and extra work will be required to ensure it comes out right.

The most significant downside to painting your bathroom countertops is potentially damaging the existing surface. Not all types of countertops should be painted. Avoid painting premium countertop materials like quartz.

However, if homeowners choose to invest in a premium material like Caesarstone quartz, it won’t matter that the countertops can’t be painted because they won’t need to be. Caesarstone quartz is developed to last and will stay looking new for years to come. 4001 Fresh Concrete is another great choice for bathroom countertop upgrades for the owner that appreciates a sleek, modern aesthetic.

How To Paint Your Bathroom Countertops

This is a rather easy process if specific steps are followed. Not following the steps could lead to a disappointing result.

1. Clean your countertop. Wipe with warm, soapy water, and allow to dry fully before continuing. You must let it dry to avoid moisture getting under the paint.

2. Sand the countertop with 150 grit sandpaper and remove any dust with a wet rag. Again, allow it to dry before continuing.

3. Use acrylic primer to prepare the painting surface. Use flash-bond primer that’s intended for gloss or high-gloss surfaces.

4. After letting the first coat of primer dry, apply a second coat and let dry.

5. After applying two layers of primer, it’s time for paint. Use latex satin or semi-gloss enamel paint and apply two to three layers. Again, be sure to let the paint fully dry between coats.

6. Once this is complete, apply a finishing coat of clear acrylic. Use semi-gloss or satin acrylic, as it will be more resistant to scratches and wear.

After following every step, the job is done. Be gentle with the painted countertop for a few days as it continues to dry and set.

If the results are unsatisfactory, restart at step two and go through the process once again.

Alternatives to Paint

Besides painting, there are other ways to resurface bathroom countertops. They each have pros and cons but are good options if painting won’t work in your space.

• Peel-and-Stick – Think of it as wallpaper for countertops. While it may not be more durable than a few coats of paint, it’s less expensive and still looks great.

• Tile – Tile is popular in bathrooms for many reasons. It’s simple, looks great, and comes in countless styles and colours. It’s also more resistant to damage, heat, and moisture than paint or peel-and-stick.
• Modular Granite – This is good for those that aren’t on a tight budget. It’s more expensive than other alternatives, but more affordable than full granite tops. It is more durable than other alternatives too.
• Laminate – Another cheaper option, this is often found in older homes. The upside is that it’s cheap and easy to install. The downside is that it takes damage rather easily and doesn’t always look the best.

Final Thoughts

Painting bathroom countertops is a process, but one that’s worth it when done properly. It allows more aesthetic flexibility and it’s something that can be done easily without the help of an installer or technician.

It does come with its own pros and cons, though. If applied improperly, paint won’t handle heat or moisture very well – very common factors in bathrooms. However, the affordability and adaptability of painted countertops may outweigh the cons for those willing to put in the effort.

Related Questions

Can You Paint Bathroom Countertops?

Yes, provided that they are composed of a paint-friendly material like laminate. Follow the above steps and you’ll have a perfect paint coat (or three) applied in no time! Just be sure to use the proper paint, primer, and finish coat.

How Often Can You Repaint Countertops?

About as often as you’d like. Assuming your paint and finish have dried fully, you’re more than capable of re-sanding and reapplying new paint in different colours or styles. Paint to your heart’s content!

What If I Don’t Like the Paint?

All you have to do is repaint. Yes, it’s a whole new process to do, but it can be done. Sometimes you don’t know how it’ll look until it’s done, and it is okay to change your mind.