Many companies aim to make home-improvement decisions easy for the DIYer by offering aptly named products. One such product, available from several major manufacturers, is counter top paint. This paint, as the name would suggest, is intended specifically for the painting of countertops and, as such, is designed to withstand the wear and tear associated with covering a frequently used counter. While the specific makeup of this paint varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, generally this paint is a combination of epoxy and oil-based paints. Many manufacturers offer several finishes, allowing you to decide whether you want your finished counter glossy or a bit more matte.
When you seek a paint that will take a beating, epoxy is the best bet. Unlike other paints that simply bond to the existing surface, epoxy paint hardens into a thick, almost impenetrable, layer. You can use paint of this type, available in both brush-on and spray varieties, on everything from appliances to floors including countertops.
While not as durable as some, you can use standard latex paint to paint your counters. Because this paint will not adhere to sleek surfaces, you need to prime your countertops before applying this type of paint. You may also add a clear coat of polyurethane to your painted counter to ensure that this paint, which lacks the strength of others, doesn’t crack or chip. Some major benefits of latex paint, which draw many paint buyers to select this option despite the fact that it isn’t as ideal as others, is that it a relatively light in odor, non-toxic and can be cleaned up with water when still wet.
When most people think of spray paint, they envision classic oil-based paint. The oil-based paint that comes in a standard spray paint is an option when painting your countertops; however, like latex paint, you must perform some pre- and post-painting steps to ensure that this paint sticks to your counter and withstands countertop use. Before applying an oil-based spray paint, prime the surface. After applying add a thick top coat, otherwise this paint will simply chip away, leaving your counter even more unsightly than it likely was from the start. Also, because oil-based paint emits noxious odors, ventilate the area well.