Before starting your countertop painting project, it's important to know what your countertops are made of. Different countertop surfaces need different prep work and products to ensure proper paint adhesion and longevity. Identifying your countertop material and its properties will help you get results that last through daily kitchen use.

Laminate countertops are common and budget-friendly surfaces in many kitchens. Their smooth surface makes them easy to paint, letting you make big changes without spending a lot. Many homeowners choose to paint laminate countertops to update old colors, cover damage, or make them look like marble or granite without the high cost.

While often used interchangeably, Formica and laminate are the same thing. Formica is actually a brand name for laminate countertops. When comparing laminate vs. Formica countertops, remember that all Formica countertops are laminate, but not all laminate countertops are Formica. Both are made from layers of paper or fabric combined with resins under high pressure. However, quality and longevity may vary.

Tile countertops need more prep work than laminate to get long-lasting results. You'll need special cleaners for the grout lines and primers made for ceramic or porcelain. Many people paint tile countertops because the grout lines can look dirty, and the tile colors can look outdated (like those pink or blue tiles from the 80s).

While you can paint granite and quartz, it's generally not a good idea. These are high-end materials, and painting them requires a lot of prep and costly special coatings. It also lowers your home's value if you sell. Most people want their counters to look like granite or quartz, not cover them up, so you won't want to paint these countertops.

Luckily, many paints work well on Formica countertops. Epoxy, acrylic and chalk paint are good choices, especially with a good primer. Oil-based paints also provide excellent adhesion and durability. Look for paints designed to adhere to multiple surface types. Tile countertops can be trickier because the smooth surface needs a special paint and primer. Our Extreme Bond Primer is made to stick to smooth surfaces like tile, glass and more. For paint, these work well: 

• Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint
• Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel
• Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex

Painted countertops can last for years with proper care, though they need more maintenance than stone or solid surface counters. With good care, your painted countertops should look good for 2-3 years before needing touch-ups. A well-sealed, well-maintained paint job can last up to 5 years before needing a complete refinish. To make your countertops last longer:

• Consider using a paint additive for extra durability
• Clean with gentle cleaners only
• Don't put hot items directly on the surface
• Use cutting boards to prevent scratches
  

Once you master basic painting, you might want to try special finishes that can make your kitchen look even better. These techniques take more skill and patience, but the results can be amazing — giving you high-end looks without the high-end price. Practice on a sample board first before trying on your actual countertops.

One popular option is creating a faux marble finish. This elegant look mimics expensive stone but lets you control the color and pattern. The process involves applying a white base coat, creating realistic vein patterns, and sealing with clear coats for depth and protection.

You can also create a faux granite finish using special stone-effect paints. This involves applying a base coat and adding speckles of different colors. Dabbing the paint with a sea sponge creates the natural look of real granite. Finish with a glossy sealer to mimic polished stone.

For a modern industrial look, try concrete-effect paint. Apply with a trowel or putty knife to create texture, then seal with a matte finish sealer for an authentic concrete look.

Don't let old countertops hold your kitchen back! With these steps and tips, you're ready to tackle this DIY project. Take your time with each step, and you'll get beautiful results that look professionally done. Don't wait to start your countertop makeover—get your supplies online or visit your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams for suggestions from an expert.