How to Refinish a Formica Countertop

Formica has long been a surface known for its ability to mimic more expensive materials on kitchen countertops, in bathrooms and on furnishings like tables. Although the Formica company strives to produce a durable product, you may find your counters need refinishing--either because they are scratched and gouged, or because you are tired of the current color scheme in your kitchen or bathroom. By repairing any imperfections and painting your Formica countertop, you can give it an extended life and new appearance.

• 1

  Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap into a bucket of warm water. Dip a cloth into the soapy water, then wipe down the Formica surface.

• 2

  Dip another cloth into denatured alcohol. Rub the surface of the Formica countertop with the denatured alcohol to break down residual oils and grease.

• 3

  Roughen the surface of the Formica with 120-grit sandpaper. Wipe the countertop with a damp cloth to remove grit and debris. Allow to dry thoroughly.

• 4

  Apply wood filler to any gouges or chips with a putty knife. Allow to dry 10 to 15 minutes, then sand to blend with the surrounding Formica. Wipe with a damp cloth to remove debris and let it dry completely.

• 5

  Pour primer into the paint tray. Dip a short-nap roller into the primer and roll it back and forth to distribute the primer evenly on the roller. Apply primer to the surface of the Formica. Use a paintbrush to get primer into any cracks and to paint the edges of the countertop. Clean the primer from the roller, paintbrush and paint tray while you allow the primer to dry.

• 6

  Pour oil-based paint into the clean paint tray. Dip the roller into the paint and distribute paint evenly by rolling back and forth. Apply a thin coat of paint to the primed Formica, using a paintbrush for corners and edges. Allow the paint to dry, then apply another thin coat to the countertop.