Paint to Resurface a Shower & Countertops

Preparation

• When painting a shower or countertop, proper preparation is the key to achieving the desired look and color. Showers and countertops must be thoroughly cleaned with warm water and soap, then dried completely prior to paint application. Countertops must be lightly sanded to create a slightly rough surface for the paint to stick. Both surfaces must be primed with two coats of acrylic primer, with each being allowed to dry completely before a new one is applied. Once the paint has dried, two layers of polyurethane will protect it from heat or water damage, stains and scratching.

Latex

• Latex paints are better choices for use in the bathroom and kitchen than oil-based paints. Latex paints spread more evenly, are easier to clean if spilled and won’t discolor over time. Additionally, once dry, latex paint is easy to clean with soap and warm water; it'll dry within an hour or two after application. The material will adhere well to properly prepped countertop and shower surfaces, as well as galvanized metal and masonry, but will flake or peel if it's painted over an old layer of oil-based paint.

Oil

• Oil based paints are better at sealing stains, and are better for dirty surfaces, steel and metal than latex. They're more durable in high traffic areas, but are more difficult to apply and clean up. Additionally, a layer of oil paint will require approximately 24 hours to dry, significantly prolonging the process. Oil paints are also flammable, meaning they're not ideal for use in the kitchen. Oil based products are more difficult to clean and require cleaning with paint thinner, a product that's also flammable and potentially harmful if handled incorrectly.

Brush Options

• Nylon and polyester brushes are both synthetic fibers, and are more durable and less expensive than natural fiber brushes. The thicker nature of the synthetic fibers means they will hold their shape better and last longer than natural fibers. Polyester holds more paint than nylon and will release a thicker, smoother finish than natural options, while synthetic brushes are also significantly easier to clean than natural bristles.