It only takes about four days for this paint to cure to full hardness and it does not require a primer! Epoxy fumes are harsh though, so be sure to ventilate the area you are working in very well. Two-part water-based epoxy – may be intimidating to first time DIYers because you need to mix the two paint components together.The topcoat takes 14 days to fully cure, so you will have to use your new countertops gently for the first few weeks. Water-based acrylic paint – convenient to use because messes or mistakes can be cleaned with water and it has less of an odor.There are many different paints one can use on countertops, each with pros and cons: This will create a smooth, glossy finish and protect the countertops from chips, dents, scratches, and stains.
Topcoat – a topcoat is 100% necessary on a painted countertop.If you are using an oil-based enamel primer, use an oil-based enamel paint.
If you have used a water-based acrylic primer, use a water-based acrylic color too.
Primer – the base coat acts as a sticky layer for the color paint to adhere to.You Will Need More Than One Kind of Paint for Your Countertops!Įven if you are planning to paint your countertops a solid color, you will still need to buy at least three different paints: primer, color, and topcoat. Using a high odor enamel paint in a bathroom under the staircase is not a good idea. Some spaces are harder to ventilate than others. Odor – water-based acrylic paint has a low odor, so by turning on a fan and opening some windows, you will get rid of the paint smell quickly.Matte or glossy? High-gloss enamel or resin give a shiny finish, whereas a water-based acrylic topcoat or polyurethane sealer can be a more muted matte.Do you want a textured finish? You will need to use three to four different paint colors to imitate a marble or granite finish.What material are your countertops? Are they laminate, wooden, ceramic tile? This will affect the type of primer you will need.Are your countertops going from light to dark in color? You may need to use a tinted primer to ensure good paint coverage in fewer coats.Using a resin topcoat will increase the hardness – good for heavily used counters. Acrylic paint dries very hard and is good for most countertops. Where are the countertops? In a high-traffic space like the kitchen or in a quiet guest bathroom? Consider durability to wear.Things to Consider When Choosing Paint to Use on Countertops You Will Need More Than One Kind of Paint for Your Countertops!.Things to Consider When Choosing Paint to Use on Countertops.