DIY Countertop Refinishing and Repair

diy countertop refinishing repair

Just because your laminate countertops are damaged doesn’t mean you have to replace them. Kitchen and bathroom countertops can be refinished and repaired in just one day.

Scratches, chips burns and knife cuts are easily repaired using a do-it-yourself repair kit. Changing the color or renewing your dull outdated laminate countertop can be done by refinishing it saving you money and the hassle and cost of having a new one installed.

Deciding When To Repair Or Replace Your Countertop

Most countertop repairs are minor like chips cuts and scrapes. These are easy repairs. Then you have burns deep knife cuts or discoloration that require a little more effort to repair. All can be repaired with a countertop repair kit or complete refinishing. The cost to repair or refinish your countertops can be anywhere between 25% to 50% of professional replacement.

Once the cost of repairing reaches a certain limit say 75% of a new countertop then you should consider replacing your old countertop with a new one. Another consideration is the cost of labor to have a contractor do the installation or the hassle of messy remodeling.

Preparing for Repair and Refinishing

Now that you have decided to refinish or repair your countertops the first thing you need to do is inspect the countertop and determine what needs repaired. Even if you are going to refinish the countertop all repairs must be completed before the refinishing. Purchase a Countertop Repair Kit to do the repairs. We recommend US Bath Products as they are experts in refinishing and repair of countertops and sell the right products for the job.

Thoroughly clean the countertops using Acetone to remove dirt grease and any silicone residue that may be on the surface then let dry. If refinishing the countertops now would be a good time to mask and paper the walls to avoid overspray from the paint coating and damage to the walls from sanding.

It is easier to use a single run of masking tape then apply the masking paper over the tape.

Surface Preparation

Perform the repairs needed per the instructions in the Countertop Repair Kit you purchased. If refinishing the entire countertop lightly sand the entire surface of the countertop with 100 grit sand paper to help the new finish grip better. Remove any old paint or finishes that might interfere with bonding and be sure to sand the sides and edges of the countertop too. A smooth, clean surface is the goal.

After sanding wipe the surface clean of a debris with a damp cloth. Once dry you can use a tack cloth the remove any left over particles. Wipe the surface again with Actone and let dry.

Countertop Refinishing Paint Coatings

There are several products you can choose from to refinish your complete countertop. If you want a standard color such as almond or gray Lowes sells a countertop coating by Rust-Oleum for $35. If you would like a granite stone looking countertop Amazon sells Giani granite countertop paint starting at $76.
Other coatings are available depending on the quality and your budget. Each paint kit comes with it’s own instructions for applying their coatings. Follow the directions completely.

Tools And Materials Needed

  • Masking Paper/Tape
  • Paint Brushes
  • Smooth 4″ Paint Roller/Handle
  • 100 Grit Sand Paper
  • Acetone

Safety Precautions

Chemicals used in refinishing can be hazardous wear a solvent rated dust mask and gloves when using chemicals or sanding. Always ventilate or use a fan to remove fumes. Read labels completely before using any products listed here. Keep children away when repairing or refinishing a countertop and keep products out of their reach..