August 28, 2008
Painting plastic laminate or melamine countertops
Is there a paint I can use successfully on Formica? I have a 60-inch Formica vanity in a bathroom that is more than 50 years old. I would like to paint over it and have a finish that is both water resistant and durable.
-- Constance Young, Massapequa
First, Formica is a brand name. The generic name of the material is plastic laminate or melamine. There are many other brand names for this product, including WilsonArt, Pionite and Nevamar. And, yes, these plastic laminates can be painted. If you were considering painting a larger area, such as kitchen countertops, I might try to talk you out of it. In a high-traffic area, like a kitchen, the paint might not hold up. But in the bathroom, provided you prepare the surface properly, the project should turn out satisfactorily.
Remove all hardware and cover with tape all areas that you don't want painted. Clean the surface with TSP Substitute (available at home centers and hardware stores) or a solution of ammonia and water. Rinse thoroughly. Next, sand with a finishing sandpaper, like 220 grit. Wipe off the residue with a damp cloth.
I'd advise priming the surface with either KILZ, an oil-base product designed to cover stains on walls, or B-I-N, a primer-sealer from Zinsser. Two coats of primer might be needed to properly seal the surface.
You can use either a latex or oil-base cover coat. I've heard great success stories about two products: Rustoleum's Stone Creations and Aqua Borne from Graham Paints. Several colors are available, and I'd suggest two light coats using a roller.
Let the surface dry for several days. The final step is covering the top coat with a clear polyurethane, which will resist water stains. Use two coats, and I'd suggest a satin finish. Imperfections tend to show up more in shiny, glossier finishes.
Avoid harsh cleaners. Wipe spills and stains away with a damp cloth.
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