How do I paint my laminate counter tops?
Otis from Kokomo, Indiana
What happened? All of the post are out of order.Editor's Note Due to the number of feedback it was necessary to archive the posts. It reverses the order of the posts, so people can read from top to bottom. (10/15/2008)
By lisa colfer
You can have your counter tops redone in new Formica for under $100. And you'd spend half that buying a high-adhesive primer, paint & then putting 5 to 7 coats of varathane on top. Not to mention ALL the hassle!
Formica is cheap! Especially if you install it yourself. but even if you have THEM install it, it's STILL going to be under $100 if you have an average size kitchen. So before you start painting, go to Home Depot & check out the cost of their installed Formica. I doubt you'll be sorry! They have some that looks like granite, sandstone, marble or plain white.
They have several grades, make sure you look at their less expensive colors. On the back of the chips they have the cost per foot of it installed or DIY, so know your square footage or at least the measurements of your counter tops before you go in & talk with a salesperson.
I was surprised that I could afford newly installed Formica! And why have something that looks "painted" that you need to be extra careful not to scratch when you can have something brand new for the same cost or a tiny bit more money! (10/15/2008)
By Cyinda
Wow. It's awesome the admin people condensed all the old posts so we can see all the old pics and advice.
THANKS ADMIN PEOPLE!
BTW as someone who has recently priced installing new laminate countertops (diy and having pro install).. for me the end cost is way more than 100.00 even for a small kitchen like mine, and I wasn't even choosing the top of the line laminate counters. For starters it was going to cost over 100 just to buy the 2 sections I would need for my kitchen let alone having them installed which I was not even going to attempt to diy because my house is older and my walls are not perfectly square.
You should check out http://ezinearticles.com/?How-Much-Will-My-Laminate-Countertop-Cost?&id=850275 it gives an average pricing and materials list for do it yourselves.
And my counters don't look painted at all. I have beautiful shiny counters with a sparkle and depth you just can't get with Formica. ( I added black glitter on the paint then enviro'ed). Just beautiful!
I am not saying painting your counters is without it's flaws but it is definitely not as expensive as buying new counters and you get to choose your colors and not have to settle with what the store has or "their less expensive colors" which may or may not match your style or kitchen.
Also I have not had to worry about my finish on my counters. I used envirotex and it looks 100 times better than anything I have seen in laminate. And if god forbid anything should happen to my counters and I get a scratch...I wouldn't worry because I can always buff it out and refinish if necessary. Can't do that with Formica!
Ta2Dave - I am not sure I would suggest putting a router to the edge of a Formica counter. The Formica is just a thin sheet over plywood or particle board. so if you start routing it could "potentially" weaken the edge and it would all fall apart. (10/15/2008)
Yeah Finally took the Plunge after so much help from you guys.
I have not put my enviro on yet, think I will wait until this weekend so i can spend time leveling it (:
Will post a before and a after/excuse the paper have not taken it down yet (:
Gail (10/16/2008)
By Gail
Feeling Better about this Spray Job. (10/16/2008)
By Gail
Gail-AWESOME! Looks really good! I'm not using the glitter, but a lot of people here are saying they did and they loved how it turned out. In my own opinion, I wouldn't use a lot. But maybe you can find a gold/brown/or even clear to give it a sparkle. But I like it the way it is! Don't forget too, you are going to get a good shine when you finish it. (10/16/2008)
Glitter will make it sparkle! But I wouldn't add a lot. Maybe even a clear one! I don't think I am going to do the glitter. A lot of people here did and they loved it!
Megan (10/16/2008)
By Megan
Hey Tricia I let my primer dry overnight because I had to put on two coats and waited to make sure it was dry.
But if you don't have to prime twice I wouldn't wait overnight.
Can't wait to see your pics.
Gail (10/16/2008)
By Gail
Hey ya guys, I am so impatient too. As soon as my primer was dry to the touch I added the spray granite. As soon as that was dry to the touch I added enviro and my counters are still doing great!
Also on the glitter; I used some glitter on my bathroom but I guess the type of glitter I used did not end up being "glittery" once I put the enviro on. (the enviro was so shiny you couldn't tell) I used a different type of glitter on my kitchen (I think it was called something like black fairy dust lol). I wish I would have put more on. I did a very light sprinkling. The shine of the enviro with the glitter created a depth to the counter that was awesome. (10/16/2008)
I used a wide foam sponge brush. I poured some towards the back and brushed it on the back splash first. Don't be scared. It isn't hard to do at all. I can say that now that I'm finished. LOL Good Luck little lady!
Patty (10/16/2008)
By Paulette
Heya Tricia - I really think using a brush on glitter paint would work fine. I have even thought about trying to find some spray glitter to make it easier to apply and to help make the glitter stick better. I have really dark counters in my kitchen kinda like gator girls but mine look more dark grey in person.(light grey base with black stone spray and white flecks) I used a black glitter which turned out awesome.
It really gives depth to the counter. I would just make sure to paint, spray or sprinkle the glitter evenly across the counter and try to avoid clumps of glitter. Although there was a spot on my counter that I thought I had put more on than the rest and you really cannot tell once you enviro.
Hi Gail - Great job on your counter! My bathroom cabinets are black with the sienna stone spray top(tan with white and black flecks). My walls are tan and I have some tile that is beige that I am planning on putting down soon.
I will end up refreshing my paint. Not sure if I will go tan again or something else. Tan is so easy to match but idk maybe a nice moss or sage green?(your ideas are appreciated here) I will also be purchasing silver pulls to match my faucet.
I have posted several pics and the admin people have added them all back in if you want to scroll down a bit it will have my pics and name below them. I don't mind reposting if you want ;) I am really proud of my work lol and I am so thankful to have found such a great site and such nice people to help me along in this remodeling adventure.
Sharee (10/16/2008)
Here's my first effort. Started with a 70's yellow bathroom vanity top. I painted and painted. Stopped once because I thought I was finished but decided I didn't like it so painted more over it. I'm finally rather pleased. I used 5 coats of water based poly.
Hope it stands up. The hardest part was cutting the blue painters' tape away after I'd finished everything. It was on there for at least 2 months. It would pull off just fine, but I was afraid if I just pulled it, it would pull part of my hard work off, so I used an Exacto knife to cut carefully around all the edges. Now I don't like the wall color (that I'd just done) and plan to repaint the bathroom. And I still need updated fixtures, too. (10/18/2008)
By Critter Mom
Oh My Tplam, I must have over mixed (: Nobody but me will probably notice anyway. I might after a couple of days sand lightly and go over the spot where the air bubbles are. Hope I do this right (: Overall it looks great. I am not scared of the enviro now. Will post pics on Monday. But still anyone that has suggestions let me know. it's just a small spot near the front of the counter, if it was in the back I would be okay with that (;
Oh and Tplam your counter looks good. great job! Thanks, Gail (10/18/2008)
By Gail
Well, After 4 days of doing my entire kitchen, I am waiting for the spray to dry so I can start to poly the countertop. WHEW! I also just took a nap.
Thursday when I came home from work, I started taking the kitchen apart, long story short, I finished priming/painting my kitchen walls, cabinets, and countertops. I added new hardware too! I love the new look, but I must say, spraying the rustoleum wasn't as great as I thought it would be. WORDS TO THE WISE, don't forget to put a tinted undercoat on close to the spray color! I'll get pics asap! (10/19/2008)
By Megan
Here's a before (10/19/2008)
By Megan
Here's an after! Hope you like it. (10/19/2008)
By Megan
And here is one of the whole kitchen! Don't mind the mess. (10/19/2008)
By Megan
Thank you Gail! My mom and I put in a lot of work. The counter top is a brownish taupe color, but I texture sprayed it with rustoleum multi-tex spray in a desert bisque color. That was a treat Ill tell ya! I used only white primer, went through 4 cans of spray before I decided to buy the tinted undercoat, then I only used 1/2 a can! I'm on my 3rd coat of poly, so far so good. (10/19/2008)
By Megan
Mil - I had a small counter next to the stove that I put the Enviro on too thin and had divots/hail damage. I poured another thin coat on top a week later until I didn't see them anymore and it looks like it should - go for it. (10/20/2008)
By Michelle
Hey Mil15 I just called the enviro Hotline (:
I have some air bubbles also She said to sand with 80-grit sandpaper.
Blow the dust off real good,then rub some alcohol over the area. Let area dry. Then reapply your enviro.
Hope this helps.
Gail (10/20/2008)
By Gail
It took 2 coats of primer and about 5 coats of paint! I have 4 coats of poly so far and it is looking good! I need to buy more tonight! (10/20/2008)
By Megan
Gail - according to the Enviro box, you are supposed to get air bubbles if you stir it right. I'm not sure you can over mix - they say be sure to not under mix. The torch gets rid of all the bubbles instantly. I went back and forth with the torch several times during the drying process just to make sure. (10/21/2008)
By tricia
Hey not finished yet still need to enviro over the bubble spots (: I painted my white cabinet also, much better. Need too get more pulls for the bottom door cabinets. But it looks so much better.
Now I need to decide whether to paint my gray walls now or wait until spring (:
Let me know what you think.
Gail (10/21/2008)
By Gail
Let me know what you think. (: (10/21/2008)
By Gail
Very nice Gail. I love the colors.
No, I did not sand between coats of poly. If I do, then the textures are sanded off. So I didn't do that. But I can tell you I finished last night with 8 coats of poly and I think I am done. It is really smooth. I can feel some texture maybe a little bit, but it is pretty smooth. And shiny. Looks really good. (10/21/2008)
By Megan
Hi Gail,
I have used 8 coats of Minwax Polycrylic Waterbased poly. It is REALLY EASY to do! But I recommend that you do not use the stone look granite sprays, the texture is what toooo bumpy. They have similar colors in the multicolored textured spray that work good.
Do not shake the can though, that causes bubbles, stir it good, and the only thing I don't like about it is when h20 gets on the countertop and you cannot dry it asap, a milky white spot appears. It is gone in 5 minutes, but it does appear.
I wrote to Minwax asking why and they said the finish is absorbing the water, they recommend putting a couple layers of fast drying oil based poly, any brand, so I am going to try that. Maybe try to use oil based instead of water based, then you will not have to go through what I did.
Megan (10/23/2008)
By Megan
Gail-I have no idea about your bubbles, I never used that before. Maybe someone else can help you with that part.
But no, I used a normal paint brush. It was simple, every hour or 2 I put a coat on, let it sit for the day and then I noticed the white spots. If you do the kitchen in poly, maybe do what I did. Use the water based poly since it dries so fast, then on the last 2 coats, use oil based, it takes a little longer to dry. (10/23/2008)
By Megan
Hi Gail,
Just wanted to let you know that I used Varathane Diamond water based poly in the satin finish (I did not want a high gloss shine) and applied it using a 2 inch high density foam roller. If you apply it in thin coats, there will be no bubbles. Be sure to stir the poly very slowly and do not shake it. Also I have had no problem with any water spots at all. I was afraid to try the enviro and I am quite pleased with the results I got using this product. Good Luck!
Joanne (10/23/2008)
I used Diamond Varthane last summer and have had now white spots at all. I love the look and will use it again. (10/24/2008)
By Beth
Hi Megan,
I did not have any problem with any water spots or milky appearance when water is left sitting on it. I did however pull my sink and did not put anything back together, or use any water around it until everything had cured for seven days. I think that might be a big factor. The product itself is milky looking when you open the can and goes on like a white film, but dries to a clear finish in a short period of time.
I also had a hard time finding it, but went to the varathane website and looked under store locations in my area and then started calling every one until I found it. Not every store that is listed will carry it. Since it is made by rustoleum, any store that carries the rustoleum line will be listed, but not all of them carry the varathane. I live in Michigan and finally found mine at a True Value Hardware store in Rochester.
Joanne (10/24/2008)
By Joanne
I have been working on my counters for a week now after reading everyone's wonderful comments. I have encountered a couple of problems. First I used a brush to add the polyacrylic as the can said and ended up with brush strokes. So I sanded it and tried a foam roller. Now I have bubbles. Sanding again today. I'm going to try an airbrush. Wish me luck! (10/26/2008)
By Veronica
Thanks Joanne, if I ever do this again, I will look for that more. I ran into the same problem, the stores on the internet said they sold it because the sell the brand, but ended up not having it.
I ended up using 8 coats of minwax polycrylic, got the white spots, so I emailed minwax and explained what Idid and what was happening. The told me to lightly sand down and apply 2-3 coats of the fast drying poly, so I did this on Sat. Let me tell you, the horrible stink is well worth it! It worked great. It came out A LOT shinier and hard and no more white spots! So I put everything back on my counter and I am back to normal again.
Minwax did tell the that since I put on so many coats, it will take up to 3-4 weeks to fully cure to the fullest strength. The only thing I don't like is I used a brush, and I have a couple hairs that got poly-ed in. Oops. (10/27/2008)
By Megan
Here is a finished countertop! I'm very pleased with it. Now let me say, you can't see the texture unless you are right there, but I think it came out good.
Megan (10/27/2008)
By Megan
My first crackle attempt along with using the Rustoleum stone paint. I used Parks Super Glaze that I found at Home Depot - 20.00 for 32oz. They told me it's the same as Enviro and made by Rustoleum. I just put it on and appear to have done it too thin in spots. I guess I'll need to do another coat :) thanks for sharing your stories (10/27/2008)
By Pattie
Here's my prior photo - pretty bad huh! See photo below of my nearly completed bath cabinet and counter (10/27/2008)
By Pattie
Hey Meicher & Bresy Great Jobs (:
Well I have sanded all the Enviro off my counter tops too many rough spots and bubbles.
I have reprimed and painted, Next is to let this dry and spray again.
I will be applying the varathane diamond gloss.
Wish me luck this time (;
Hey breasy how was the super glaze from HD did
you have trouble applying it?
Thank goodness this is a small counter (:
Thanks
Gail (10/27/2008)
Hi,
It comes with 2 liquid bottles - Resin and Activator - mix equal parts and pour on - sounds very similar to what I have read about Enviro. Their website www.newparks.com - photo of my counter (about 4hours cured) How long do you think I should wait before I do another layer? Thanks! (10/27/2008)
By Pattie
I am fascinated by all the information on painting laminated countertops. I am having a new counter top fitted 1st week of December - Black Marble Laminex in Diamond Bright finish. There is also a shelf in a wall opening - about four or five feet long, wood with existing laminate set on it.
To have this done professionally will cost an arm and a leg because of the way it sits "around" the opening and I have decided to paint the laminate, if possible.
Obviously it is possible, and I have located an importer of EnviroTex on the other side of Australia and will have to re-read all your useful posts to work out exactly how to do all this. But what I would like to know is, how are all your re-finished surfaces working out after a year or so?
If I google for advice within Australia, the advice is, don't do it - re-laminate it, but the results you all are obtaining look pretty terrific to me. Comments would be appreciated. From Makaleka at Lake Macquarie, Australia. (10/27/2008)
Sorry, for taking so long to get back with those of you wanting to know how I prepped for the painting. I had trouble trying to post messages. I have attached a finished picture of my counters. I might mention I do have some paint brush marks showing a little. Someone online mentioned using a paint pad. I make add more poly with that technique to see what happens. I'll be sure to post what happens.
Prep:
1. Make any needed repairs.Fortunately, mine were in good shape.
2. Wash with TSP
3. Multi Purpose Primer..nothing special. Zinser is good to cover markers, grease etc. I only used one coat..two wouldn't hurt.
4. Applied my accents colors individually ..drying times in between. I even let the gray in the primer peek through for an added color.
5. Used a water base poly (Min Wax ) Yes, it will make a milky spot where moisture collects. Don't panic..it does go away. I'm not sure that it won't be totally gone after a month or so of curing. We'll see.
6. When removing any tape off the wall after painting, use an exacto knife. Your paint will peel off if not careful. I removed all the silicone around my counter after painting..I wanted to put in new silicone help hold down the newly painted finish better.
7. I also brushed the poly underneath the counter top to help it have smooth surface that wouldn't chip if bumped.
I had lots of fun dapping on my colors I didn't even wait for each layer to dry. I mixed as I went and adjusted the design as I went. Doing it this way makes for a thicker paint job if your not careful. Try to apply lightly by dapping your sponge on a rag to get the excess paint off ..or as I did. Dap it on a paper plate and keep reusing what's on the plate to save paint.
I don't know if you can show more than one picture of not. I have some step by step pictures if anyone is interested. I love the change. Jean/Robards
(10/27/2008)
By ja
Hi Gail,
Using the Super Glaze from HD was much easier than I thought it would be. I was more worried than I should have been (reading some of the stories :) the website actually has the instruction sheet - under Brand finishes. I just did a light sanding and will apply another layer today as I did not apply as even as I would have liked - but they look awesome. Crystal clear where I applied a little thicker. I'll be doing the upstairs bath soon. Thanks (10/28/2008)
By Pattie
Hi Gail,
I think because I used the stone spray, the parts where I did not put on as thick may look like bubbles but may actually be the "bumps" from the texture of the paint. The parts of the counter that have a thicker coat are super smooth. I'll let you know how they look when I do the next layer. (10/28/2008)
By Pattie
Okay, I did another layer of the Parks Super Glaze. Looks so much better. Here's a photo of one of the spots I was concerned about. You can see the color much better. (blue spot is the flash) Some bubbles appeared (very small) I just blew on them and they disappeared! (10/28/2008)
By Pattie
I finished mine at 4 p.m. and it was dry to the touch the next morning but I let it cure for three days before I put anything on it.
PattyZone5 (10/29/2008)
By Paulette
I used the polycrylic. I loved how easy it was and hardly any smell. I did not like the white spots. They do go away, but I was not a fan on them. The longer the water stays on, the longer it takes for the white to disappear. I put 8 coats on, then I put 2 coats of fast drying oil poly from Minwax a week later. I recommend doing that! But it is up to you. As for the heat, but stove is very close to put not like yours. So far it hasn't hurt it. What kind of spray are you using? (10/29/2008)
By Megan
I'm not sure what kind of paint I will use yet. I don't know if I will go with spray or just brush on. I want to go with a black granite look with the white and gray specks, or just paint the base color black then sponge on white and black.
Thanks for the advice on the finishing up with the oil based poly. The oil poly shouldn't yellow up or anything should it? The oil base should dry clear. I have heard of someone on here say they used oil based and it turned the counter top a yellowish color, but I will take whatever advice I can get. (10/29/2008)
By Amanda
SCarolinagal-
I used textured paint and all the coats of poly made it very smooth. I kinda wish I didn't spray the texture because with the base coat I can't really see it. But mine is darker like a taupe or greenish color. So I can't see if it turned yellow or not, but I have heard of that happening. Off the subject, I'm jealous you live in SC, I love their Crape Myrtles! (10/30/2008)
By Megan
Hi everyone. I love reading the posts and seeing all your pictures. I did my counters down at my vacation property, a mobile home in NJ. I used a water based poly. they look good. There are a just a couple of small spots where you can see the brush streaks. Any idea on getting rid of those. Since the season is now done, I haven't spent much time there very recently so as far as holding up, I am not sure how they will do. but they look great.
I tried a small sample piece with envirote lite, but i didn't really like working with it. SO has anyone used both poly and enviro? what are your thoughts. does the poly protect well enough, does it hold up okay. I like the look of the enviro but don't really care for working with it. the poly is easier, i think, to work with even though it requires more coats.
I am doing a counter for someone and am so not sure which way to go.
ALSO, PLEASE HELP WITH THIS, in addition to the counters, the laminate goes all up the wall to ceiling, yikes, its bright pink. I do not want to faux granite up the wall, I think it will be too much. BUT I do want to paint the laminate wall. I will prime it and use a kitchen/semigloss paint. after that should I put anything else on it to finish it off? (poly or leave it). Thank you in advance. (11/01/2008)
By Lisa
Hi Julie,
I just happened upon the site a few days before I started as well. A lot of useful info :)
I'll send you a link to Kodak Gallery showing some pics as I went along.
I took out my sink because it is cast iron and started bleeding rust through which I wanted to
fix. I believe others have left their sinks in for the process.
I sanded the counters with a small electric one using fine grit sandpaper, just to get it really clean.
Taped around countertop and put on a coat of tinted Aqua Lock primer using a small roller.
I just used what I put on the cabinet - tinted with Western Hat color from Muralo paint.
Let it dry a few hours and sprayed on the Rustoleum Stone - color Sienna. I let it dry overnight.
I used the Parks Super Glaze from Home Depot. Mix according to directions - mix well but stir very slow so you limit making any bubbles.
I started by pouring it down from the back splash.
I used a small paint brush to completely cover the back splash and edge of counter.
For the counter top, I pulled the liquid from the back to the front so the excess drips over the edge.
I just used a plastic type scraper/putty knife. If you do get bubbles just blow on them and they should disappear. After about 1/2 hour, just scrap off any "drips" hanging from counter top and check periodically until they stop. You can sand down any you missed.
It dried enough overnight but found I did not do a completely even coat. The next day I hand sanded lightly with fine sandpaper and applied another coat. I let it cure for 72 hours before I put the sink back in.
Really happy with how it looks now.
The stone spray paint is very forgiving. You don't have to put it on real heavy - just your preference. I did some small bursts of the spray mostly. I don't use spray paint too often and was a little nervous. You can do some test sprays on something - it's real easy. I also dropped a screwdriver on it while it was not completely dry which left a mark and just sprayed right over - you'll see how easy once you start.
Good luck!
(11/02/2008)
By Pattie
These are mine. Did them in '06. All oil base paint and poly. The backsplash is "faux tumbled marble" Made from joint compound. I love the change. Mo (11/02/2008)
By Mo 1959
Hi everyone. Just one tip that is almost flawless in spreading envirotech, using your hands to spread it. You must be quick but you can actually feel how heavy it is in areas and spread out quickly to the others. After doing many other counters, this turned out perfect and flawless with hardly any bubbles. Another hint: start using a small hand torch within the first 5 minutes of the area you are doing and it makes it perfect! Using your hands also is great for the sides a and backsplash.
I got frustrated with all the sponges soaking up the product and making it uneven and the scraper making divets. My hands work perfect. Use acetone polish remover to get it off your hands immediately after you are done spreading. It hasn't irritated or done anything to my skin!
One more hint. No need to sand anything. Just get a good gripper primer! I will upload pix when i am finished and you will see. My island in my kitchen has a few flaws from using the other methods, but my other counter tops are as smooth as glass! Just use your hands to spread! :) (11/02/2008)
By dee
Envirotech lite takes about 3 days to hard cure. Don't put anything on it until then. You will end up with divets. Depending on where you live, humidity makes a difference to. (11/02/2008)
By dee
As I was reading all the posts, wanted to also let you know that envirotech is really the prettiest and toughest out there. As for the tiny bubbles, you won't get many if you do it really thick and use a small hand held bernsomatic torch from home depot. Use it immediately.
If you are in a high traffic area(The kitchen), I would recommend it. The key is to use envirotech really thick. 1 Gallon per area (very small area) such as each side of sink, on the island 1-2 gallons. The thicker the better and no show through with the spray stone fleck. Also, make sure you have plenty of envirotech to do an area.
Once you set it , you can't go back and start where you left off, it will makes a wave. It makes it rock hard and very easy to level. They use this on bar tops. Don't forget you can get it at michael's and use the 40% off coupons from the newspaper. This makes it really cheap! (11/02/2008)
By dee
Hi Everyone.
In response to the last post.
I just wanted to post this. I am not a fan of fire/flame and chemicals. Nor am I a fan of touching chemicals with my hands. Perhaps artsyfartsyfun doesn't mind putting their hands into them, but I would prefer not to - or maybe there are certain gloves to use - if so, please let us all know - (I will be doing the upstairs bath soon and would love to know what you used :).
The Parks Super Glaze also did not mention using a torch.
The few "bubbles" I got were quickly dissolved by blowing on.
My counter came out crystal clear.
This brand is also used in doing "barroom bars" in my area of the country - Northeast.
I love the look - being Enviro-tex or the Super Glaze - I would say they both have the same end results.
I just wanted to post my opinion. I know a lot of people are new to makeovers (as I was) and it can be very scary.
Thanks all - and don't be scared off - this is something very easy and money saving to do! I was very skeptical at first and love how it turned out.
(11/02/2008)
By Pattie
Julie
I have a pullout stove as well. I used a poly coating on mine. We let it cure for a couple of days..no problems. My toughest part was around the sink in the small area behind the sink. I had to do a lot of touch up with a small paint brush to make it match the rest of my counters. I had used sea sponges for my design. I didn't know about a granite spray at the time. Let us see how it turns out.
Jean/Robards (11/02/2008)
By ja
Hi,
I only had an area about 60in x 22in and used 24oz. On the instruction sheet it gives this...
16oz covers 3.2sq ft -
32oz covers 6.4sq ft -
gallon covers 25.6sq ft -
based on 1/16" thickness (11/03/2008)
By Pattie
Hey Ladies, I'm finally finished with my bathroom. Took some breaks and had to redo the counter. Had problems with the Enviro, just me I guess (: So I went with the poly. Had to apply about 8 coverings because I used the Stone Spray, but overall I am loving my new counter. Now I can get to the Bathroom upstairs.
(11/04/2008)
By Gail
Excuse the Mess Haven't picked up the poly yet, may do a couple more coverings. (: (11/04/2008)
By Gail
For those who didn't see the before pictures of the plain counter. Here it is. Pretty, huh?(: So plain. (11/04/2008)
By Gail
Hi Gail,
Looks great! Sorry to hear you had issues with the Enviro - I used the stone and Super Glaze with no issues. Good luck on the next one!
Bresy (11/04/2008)
By Pattie
Yeah Tpalm I just sanded over the Enviro a little not all of it, just enough to take the sheen off, with 80 grit sandpaper, And then used a tack cloth to get all the dust off. Then reprimed & repainted my base coat, two coats, let dry, sprayed my stone paint, let dry overnight and started my oil based poly. Poly is so much easier for me (:
GO FOR IT. (11/04/2008)
By Gail
To get it off my wood floor, I took a razor blade and slowly jiggled it around the spot until it started lifting, then just peeled the rest up. It didn't leave any sort of mark at all. I also used this technique for the spot that fell in my sink. You can also try to hold a blow dryer onto it for 30 seconds or so until it heats up, then take a wet wipe and get it up - it was just a lot stickier that way. (11/05/2008)
By Michelle
I took the plunge and here are my results! Before and after. (11/05/2008)
By Crystal
Here is my after! (11/05/2008)
By Crystal
Julie
I used the sponges and used the poly coating as well. The sponges work fine..if you do it one layer at a time..leaving time to dry completely in between, I'm sure it will be fine. Mine ended a little bumpy because I did mine all at once. I used six coats of poly and still feel it in spots. I will be adding additional poly later.
The poly is by far lots cheaper.the enviro looks good but sounds costly. I had around 50 square feel of counter to do. I'd do it again while saving up for the real thing later. Best of luck. My pictures are posted earlier. Jean/ Robards (11/05/2008)
By ja
Hi Julie, Yes I love my Shine on my Counter. Wish I could work with the enviro, but just can't seem to get it right (: Plus way to expensive for the amount of counter spaces that I have (:
And yes I used the stone spray, so had to apply a lot of poly, because the stone is bumpy. But over all
looks great.
I haven't decided what type of spray I will be using for the bathroom upstairs yet. Walmart does have some nice choices. I really like the stone look though. Oh and get the oil base poly.
Good Luck (11/06/2008)
By Gail
I used minwax polycrylic clear gloss, loved how easy it was and it worked good! I didn't like the water white spots it left, so I sanded with fine paper, and applied 2 coats of oil based poly! It came out A LOT harder and shinier than the water based. the only thing I am unhappy with is I used too dark of a base coat and I cant really see the specks/texture of the spray paint.
I messed up at the beginning and used white primer and couldn't get the white from shining through the spray, so I bought a base coat exactly like the darkest color of the spray and now It didn't turn out like I wanted it too, but it still looks 100 times better than before. But it is VERY shiny and hard! (11/06/2008)
By Megan
Okay, I am going to go for it! We close on our new home tomorrow and I will buy the supplies that night. Just a couple more questions;
meicher79,
I am leaning toward the Polycrylic. I have read that water-based poly is what should be used on counters for food safety, etc. Also, I am pregnant and have a 19 mo old in the house, so do not want to deal with a great deal of fumes. However, I certainly DO NOT want white spots popping up, so will probably finish the last two coats with the oil based poly. Did you ask anyone about the safety of this? I'm not really that concerned, because I never put or prepare food directly on the counter anyway. Really, who does that?
Crystal,
I love your counter. I am thinking I am going to go with the stone spray that looks like that, and we are painting our cabinets white as well. What is the name of the spray color, and what base color did you use?
You guys have no idea how helpful this forum has been! My husband and I are buying our first home, and being in our twenties as well as a one income family, getting new counters simply is not in the budget for now.
I am confident that a good paint job on the counters and cabinets, new cabinet hardware, and laying vinyl planks will make this kitchen my own :).
(11/06/2008)
By Julie C.
The color I used was from rustoleum american accents stone spray called granite stone, and I used the envirolite. Thanks so much for the comments, I love it. (11/06/2008)
By crystal
Oh yeah, before I did the spray paint I did a primer coat and the a coat of light beige paint. (11/06/2008)
By crystal
Hey Jenn I used a sponge brush with my poly coatings. I really like the spray because I am too lazy to try it the other way.
And a sponge roller to roll on the two coats of primer and another sponge roller for the base coat. Hope this helps. Gail (11/06/2008)
By Gail
In reference to a post of using my hands and spreading the Enviro. Concerning it touching your skin. There is no harm unless you don't wash it off. (let me add. It would cure to your skin after 2 days) You could use gloves, but I would use several as it may stick to the glove and make divets. I would try it to see. I haven't used them; just easy to use your hands and wash them off when finished. As far using a handheld torch. It is very tiny, like using a lighter but much hotter to instantly remove any imperfections.
Even if you are hesitant and a "newbie" to DYI it is always good to have one on hand for many projects. The polymers won't blow up in your face, nor will you burn the house down. My suggestion using your hands to spread..is extremely quick and super easy, almost zero bubbles and fantastic for edges and backsplash. :) (11/06/2008)
By dee
Artsy - Not wanting to start anything here, but I also don't want newbies to be misled thinking that touching the enviro is perfectly safe. It is not. I have worked in hazardous waste for years and even the enviro instructions warn against contact with the skin. NOT because it can cure and harden, but because ANY chemical has the structure to be absorbed through the skin.
You are fortunate that you had no reaction, but someone with an allergy sensitivity or even someone who isn't aware they might have one, could have serious consequences if they were to have a reaction to the chemicals. The enviro MSDS sheet clearly states the chemicals used in its product and they are high-level DANGEROUS compounds.
Again, I am not wanting to cause friction here, but I strongly advise against anyone using their bare hands to spread the enviro. I personally used a filter mask, gloves and safety glasses and also had plenty of air circulating. My advise to anyone is ALWAYS follow the precautions listed on a product. It is there for a reason.
Tricia (11/07/2008)
By tricia
Artsy,
You may have just been able to rinse it off quickly enough but I would definately suggest gloves too. When I was doing my backsplash and leaning over to get the far edges, I didn't realize that I was leaning up onto the counter edge. The Enviro soaked a horizontal line thru my tee shirt across my belly. I washed it off cause it was sticky feeling, but the next day I woke up with a line of red bumps where the Enviro had hit. It lasted about 5 days and was super itchy and not so pretty.
So just be careful with the stuff while it's wet, and you guys try what I did to smooth it out - I used a plastic paint guard thingy - it's long like a ruler and you hold it up against the ceiling when you paint the walls so you don't get paint where you don't want it? dont know the official name, but it was extremely easy pushing the Enviro around with that, plus as long as you put it on thick enough, you shouldn't get divots.
Hope this helps. Gator. (11/07/2008)
By Michelle
YES I will chime in here also about using your hands to spread the enviro. This stuff is so darn thick and sticky, You guys know how much trouble I had with it (:
It sticks to everything in site (:
I even had trouble getting the little bit off my hands when I thought it was safe to take off my gloves. BIG MISTAKE!
No way would I use my hands, this stuff sticks to everything. I have a shirt I used when applying and the stuff won't even come off after washing, now i have to use the shirt as a paint/work shirt from now on (:
Newbees with that said use something other than your hands to be on the safe side.
And Artsy I am glad that you are Okay while using your hands to spread these chemicals. Gail (11/07/2008)
By Gail
FINALLY! Tech support finally got my computer fixed where I can show my pictures! I'm so excited! lol Anyway, here is my before: (11/07/2008)
By tricia
And here is the after. It's so shiny that my backsplash is reflected lol.
Tricia (11/07/2008)
By tricia
Thanks Gail - Here is a better shot. Yes I sponged the colors on and enviro'd. The one I am going to sand and start over is my coffee table. I think. Haven't made up my mind yet on that one. (11/07/2008)
By tricia
And here is my old hutch I tore down and made into a microwave table. Matched the top to the counters.
Tricia (11/07/2008)
By tricia
And another close-up - not sure why my brown is looking so yellow, but it's definitely brown in real life.
Tricia (11/07/2008)
By tricia
Kimbaleezy - Here are instructions in a nutshell:
1. Clean surface thoroughly. Use a TSP cleaner or I used vinegar and water - vinegar cuts through any grease you might have.
2. sand the surface lightly and fix anything that needs to be fixed.
3. Wash again with your cleaning solution. Let dry good. Then tape everything off you don't want the paint on. Lay papers on the floor for drips and over a sink if you have one.
4. then apply a primer - I used Kilz, some people use a spray primer. Again, let dry completely.
5. If you are sponging on your colors, apply a basecoat. Example, I knew I was going for black, brown and rust, so spray painted a black base coat. Let dry completely.
6. Now you take your colors (if you are sponging) and apply them randomly letting each color dry before starting the next. I used a sea sponge and acyrilic are paints from Wal-Mart. If you are using the textured spray paint, then just spray it on and let it dry. Apply more coats if you want a richer color. And let it dry.
7. Apply your enviro or polycrilic varnish as some have done. The enviro takes one coat and the varnish takes several. If you use the enviro, a small hand torch is recommended to get the air bubbles out. Enviro takes about 8 hours to dry, but is still slightly tacky until 12 hours.
Hope this helps. Also, have good ventilation like open windows and have a fan circulating, but not directly at your surface or you will get little dust fuzzies stuck to it. Use gloves, a face mask and safety glasses. I used a large plastic putty knife to spread my enviro. Had no problems at all with it.
If you have any other questions, everyone on here is great to answer. Good luck!
Tricia (11/08/2008)
By tricia
ana010, Thanks!
I used a small foam roller to put down a coat of gray primer. When dry I rolled on black for a basecoat. These were Home Depot paints. I let it dry overnight.
I bought acrylic craft paints for the sponging - light khaki, light tan, and dark tan. I put a small bit of paint in paper plate, dabbed my sea sponge in it, rubbed excess on another paper plate then randomly smooshed on countertop, rinsed sponge and dried with paper towel.
When that paint was dry, I put on two more colors - same method as above. If you don't like it, you can take a wet towel and wipe it off, let dry and start over. Let paints dry before putting on another color. They dry very quickly.
When dry, I put the enviro-lite on per directions and spread it with a wide disposable sponge brush with wooden handle. It was dry the next morning but I didn't put anything on the counter until the third day. I love mine.
(11/08/2008)
By Paulette
Hey Jenn,
Yup Keep applying to you feel better.
I think I did about 12 coats, will apply a couple more coats after I finish redoing my guest bathroom upstairs.
Oh yeah and I used oil based poly. I don't know for sure if the water-base poly could be the reason for the bumpy feeling still. Also you have to apply the poly really thick on the counters. Not thin layers.
No Don't Sand the Counters. You will sand off the texture and have to restart the process (:
Just be patient and the poly will cover the bumpies, I promise.
Hope this helps and don't forget to provide pics.
Gail (11/10/2008)
By Gail
Michael's sells the Envirotex Lite in 32 oz. packages for $29.99 in the Maryland area - found this site online that offers 1 gallon for $69.69 that includes the shipping. http://store.creative-wholesale.com. I am waiting for delivery now. (11/11/2008)
By Kimby
HEY fowkes5 & anyone else browsing to view all the beautiful pics, before the month of November go to the top and input. "Transforming Old Formica Counter Tops". Gail (11/12/2008)
By Gail
Hi mayrasar,
I think maybe this link will help with your "resin" counters. This refers to a "cultured marble" counter and came out great.
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf71629871.tip.html (11/12/2008)
By Pattie
Suzie, Kimbaleezay and gmiles, this is for you. Directions for painting counters.
PAINT FAUX GRANITE COUNTERTOPS
Wash all surfaces thoroughly with ammonia sudsy water.
Dry well. Painters tape off all wall edges, drawer fronts, sink edge and stove area, or move it out so you can get to those edges.
Apply oil based primer in base color of your choice. I used white.
Let primer dry overnight.
Get a sample piece of granite from Lowes or Home depot to use as a
guide. It helps inspire me not to mess up and shows me I really can't mess up.
Have your different colors for your creation ready to apply.
I used 3 diff colors. All from Sherwin Williams. I got a quart of each and have LOTS left.
Balance Beige, Network Gray--- Black. My base coat color was the white primer.
All in oil base. You also need Minwax Clear Gloss Polyurethane for your final top coats. Get a variety pack of about 5 or 6 sea sponges. You will use diff ones for each color. The real thin sharp sponges I used for the final color (black)
I started with beige over the white, just pouncing lightly all over in no particular pattern.
I left quite a bit of white showing for my particular pattern. While the beige was still tacky, I used a diff sponge for the gray. I just eyeballed the effect until I liked what I saw. I referred to my little piece of granite sample as I went.
Then finding a sponge with sharp little shards I dabbed it in the black and lightly went over the whole thing. Here and there. Let this creation dry about 5 hours.
With 120 grit sand paper, sand entire area. You're just knocking down any roughness or raised areas. Get some tack cloth and wipe it down real good removing all dust.
Using a sponge brush apply first coat of poly. Let it dry at least 4 hours. Sand again lightly, Tack again. Apply second coat poly. Let dry 4 hours. Repeat this sanding and tacking and poly at least 5 times.
DO NOT USE SPAR POLY IT DRIES VERY YELLOW.
I don't cut on my counters any way and I never put hot pans directly on them either, other than that they look great and handle water well.
Location: Cumming, Ga | Registered: May 20, 2006
and a link to faux tile directions. Mo
http://boards.hgtv.com/eve?a=tpc&m=7681003013
(11/12/2008)
By Mo
I recently have completed my kitchen tops and 1 bathroom counter top and sink, I haven't been able to post due to problems but looks like its working today. I had a some bubbles end up in one counter but overall you don't really notice and they look awesome, so many compliments. I used a stone spray from Wal-mart and Enviro-tek, I am very fond of my Bathroom, The cultured marble top and sink cam out FANTASTIC, looks somewhat like an under mount sink now I'll upload pics. (11/13/2008)
By Ben
More pictures (11/13/2008)
By Ben
My bathroom sink now looks like this for info please contact me on nebage @ gmail . com (11/13/2008)
By Ben
One more (11/13/2008)
By Ben
My kitchen (11/13/2008)
By Ben
Here's my after: (11/13/2008)
By Ben
Here's my before: (11/13/2008)
By Ben
I had cultured marble tops in the Bath. (11/13/2008)
By Ben
Now it looks like this: (11/13/2008)
By Ben
another of a part of the Kitchen, Im still yet to figure out what to do with the cabinets (11/13/2008)
By Ben
This sink and counter top now. (11/13/2008)
By Ben
Here's a close up. I used a Stone Spray from Wal-mart and then Enviro. (11/13/2008)
By Ben
This was a before: (11/13/2008)
By Ben
This is the after! (11/13/2008)
By Ben
handysabrina, I did use just one color of spray, I'll picture it here for you, I got it from Wal-mart. I had to do 2 coats though as the first coats comes out looking like a spray can would, 'Patchy', but the second coat really tops things off. The Enviro certainly smoothed thing out to, the back splash part is still a little bumpy but still shiny and I like that look for the sides, makes it feel more like a stone counter top, you would never know it was laminate.
Oh yeah I think the color was Ancient Ruins,
felt like i had to wait forever to get it as there is never any staff in the paint section of our wal-mart store, Ugh (11/14/2008)
By Ben
Hey Jenn yeah I can fell some bumps, but all together its smooth.
I'm sure the bumps will be okay as long as they have the poly on them.
Did I see your pics?
Gail (11/14/2008)
By Gail
Here is the coffee table I did in the stone spray paint...same that Nebster used (your counters look awesome nebster!) My husband made the table and I finished it. Whole project cost $60. I wanted it built a certain way so I could buy ottomans and put under it for extra seating and storage. I really like it!
Tricia (11/16/2008)
By tricia
And here is a close-up of the stone color.
Tricia (11/16/2008)
By tricia
Okay Ladies, I'll show you a pic of my Bathroom Remodel.
Still in progress, My Counter Top is done and I did repaint my Cabinet over in White, it was real Dirty (:
Still have to get Hardware.
I went to HD yesterday to purchase paint, but never got to that isle, I found some peel & Stick tiles for $5.90 a box.
Whew what a deal (: Excuse the other mess.
Take a look..
Thanks
Gail (11/18/2008)
By Gail
up close (11/18/2008)
By
Ok, after looking at this site for months, I finally took the plunge. My counters were white laminate and the cabinets were that fake wood laminate. I painted the cabinets, and then did the counters. The only thing I don't like is the cabinets are too light with the counters. So I think I'm going to paint just the frames of the cabinets a little darker, and keep the doors the lighter color.
I used the Rustoleum Stone spray and Polyurethane. The pics are not the best, and I can't get the other picture I took to download from my e-mail. Hopefully I can fix it! I had a lot of fun doing this! Thanks to everyone on here with your suggestions! Ann Marie (11/18/2008)
By Ann Marie
redssunshine and susie, here's pics of the tile process and I'll repost pics of counters. Someone asked about the sponges I bought. They were from lowes and I just used the very sharp points for the black specs. (11/18/2008)
Before: Ugly pink countertops! (11/18/2008)
By Jenn4u
After: Up to date more modernized look. (11/18/2008)
By Jenn4u
I don't know what to do with the blue painters tape on the backsplash. When I try to remove tape no matter how careful I am the poly pulls. Anyone have this same trouble and any suggestions on how to remove the tape without ripping off the poly? (11/18/2008)
By Jenn4u
Once again i'm having to leave painters tape on for now - any ideas or suggestions on how to remove without pulling up the poly that dried on to it? (11/18/2008)
By Jenn4u
Wow Jenn,
They look awesome.
I had to use a utility knife to cut loose the tape from the backsplash.
Just enough to break the connection.
(11/19/2008)
By Pattie
I used the Rustoleum Stone spray in Black Granite and the Poly. I used about 6 coats of the water-based poly and about 5 coats of the oil-based poly. Seems like the oil-based smoothed out the bumps much more than the water-based.
Maybe I'll try a utility knife as Bresy mentioned or a box cutter to cut away the tape. All of the back splash has the painters tape and no matter how careful I am I'm still having trouble removing without pulling away the poly. (11/19/2008)
By Jenn4u
Hey Jenn Looks Great. You did a great job! I don't know about the tape I always take mines off after the first application of poly. Why don't you wait a couple of days till the poly really cures and apply a towel or sponge with hot water to the tape, that might help. Did you use the black granite spray for your counters? Which one rustoleum or kyolite (SP)?
How are your bumpies? Gail (11/19/2008)
By Gail
Jenn,
As you can see in the corner of my pic, when I pulled the painters tape off, it ripped a lot of the actual paint off too, as well as getting sort of stuck in the hardened Enviro, so I ended up using a razor blade on the rest of the counter edges to get the tape up. It seemed to help because you get a good cut right on the edge. When I do the bathroom, I'm going to take off the tape before the Enviro dries completely and see if that helps. But try the razor. (11/19/2008)
By Michelle
Hi,
You've inspired and motivated me. I just painted my counters with stone spray and covered them with a coat of Parks Superglaze. Looks great, but I have bumps from the texture, and one or 2 dimples from air bubbles that released while drying. I really don't want to put another coat on, cause it takes 3 days to cure. Will the surface survive as is? Do I need to wait until fully cured before placing stuff on my counters?
Thanks :) (11/20/2008)
By tlegambi
Lynn, thanks! Yes, I definately used a primer. I also used a base coat of black paint, but realized later they sell tinted primer so that step might have been deleted had I known. The spray paint with the specks went on pretty thick so I think over a tinted primer it wouldn't have shown through - but I used Enviro not poly as my seal. Love the look, will use it again! (11/20/2008)
By Michelle
Lynn W
I used primer but had it tinted with a bit of black. I didn't use a base coat just the stone spray (the primer was already dark from the black tint). I sprayed on thick that's probably why I had to use over 10 layers of poly. I used both water based and oil poly. I preferred the oil-base.
Good Luck
(11/20/2008)
By Jenn4u
Hello all! You've really inspired me so I took the plunge. Check out my before and afters. (11/21/2008)
By Sabrina
Here's the after! #1 (11/21/2008)
By Sabrina
After #2 (11/21/2008)
By Sabrina
Great info on this site - best I have found anywhere! I want to paint my laminate counters and wanted some kind of mixed color - I love the granite look and think I'll go with that. My counters are old and have an aluminum corner strip where the backsplash meets the counter, as well as another strip across the top of the backsplash. What do I do with it? Paint over it, replace it with something else? Also, chips in the edges of the countertop (square edges), how do I repair before painting and such? (11/22/2008)
By momthebaum
Hi Katy,
This is from the enviortex website if you choose to go with enviro - also the same info as Parks Super Glaze from Home Dep. Both of these products are used as "bar" counter finishes which are used when serving food. I used only in my bathroom but others have used in their kitchens. It's awesome stuff.
I used stone spray paint with Super Glaze and clean with Clorox Green Works spray. You'll love the results! Good luck!
Surface Care.
Furniture polish will prolong the life of the surface and clean smudges, etc. If scratches occur that cannot be polished out, clean with acetone, then recoat with Envirotex Lite. This additional coat will remove all surface blemishes. Envirotex Lite is heat resistant, however, if should not be intentionally subjected to high temperatures such as cigarettes, cooking utensils, etc. Envirotex Lite is water and alcohol proof.
Objects, when left on the surface for a period of time, may leave impressions on an Envirotex Lite surface (the coating is made tough, yet flexible so as to not be brittle and prone to shattering from impact). Impressions usually disappear in a few hours at normal 72° - 75°room temperatures. The warmer the environment, the more quickly impressions will appear and after items are removed, will disappear. This characteristic, coupled with outstanding moisture and chemical resistance, makes Envirotex Lite an ideal coating for bar tops, coffee tables and dining tables.
(11/22/2008)
By Pattie
Thanks a lot all of you! I used a light coat of spray stone then lightly sprayed a chocolate brown flat over it. Did 2 coats of poly then the enviro light which really wasn't all as difficult to use as I thought it would be.
Here's a pic of my whole kitchen makeover done in EXACTLY ONE WEEK! Thanks for all your posts. I was over educated when I started this and so nervous, but it was SO WORTH IT!
If you scroll way down you'll see the before. (11/22/2008)
By HandySabrina
After lurking here for quite some time, I jumped in and did it! I have 2 counter tops to do, so I tried the little one first. I am waiting to get tile work done first, then do my big one! Here are pics of what I have done. Before (11/24/2008)
By Mello33
And here's the after! I'm so happy! Thank you all for such awesome advice! (11/24/2008)
By Mello33
I ended up w/ lots of bumpies on my surface, but I lightly wet sanded the surfaces w/ wet sanding sponge, and I will put another coat of super glaze (when I feel like being w/out a counter for 3 days again :). The very light sanding smoothed the feel of the bumpies, and I think the second coat of glaze will make the surface completely smooth.
I did wait until the super glaze was completely cured (3 days)and the sanding was so light w/ out pressure (same pressure you would use when wiping down your counter w/ a regular cleaning sponge. The wet sanding didn't scratch the surface either, so even if I wait a while w/out recoating I think I should be fine. I know alot of people were concerned w/ the bumpies, so I hope this may help you too :) (11/24/2008)
By tlegambi9
I was speaking to my brother who is a very handy guy. He's a very talented guy when it comes to home improvement. I told him about some bumps I had with my counters, and he said the same thing about sanding. He said to try to use 600 grit sandpaper and wet sand it. He also said to used a compound kind of like rubbing compound for cars. He said it should come out like glass. If it doesn't I'll make him fly 1200 miles to fix it! Ha! (11/24/2008)
By Ann Marie
We used the Sante Fe color stone spray from Walmart. Looks fantastic. I've used 4/5 coats of minwax Polycrylic -water base and am getting the resin to finish it up. I would like to add some metallic flecks to it in order to make it look more like granite. Has anyone tried this yet? I could use flecks for car paint/floor paint, metallic paint...glitter. I was wondering if a metallic paper might work. Anyone tried anything like this?
Everyone's counter tops look fantastic! Way better than the cost it takes to rip out the old and put new in, with material and labor! (11/25/2008)
By Jandcbrown
Hello All,
I have been reading these posts since early summer. I have this site as my home page because I did not want to miss anything, I am addicted! I finally took the plunge last weekend, however, I "practiced" on my mother in law's bathroom first..LOL! Here is the before picture...see the lovely vanity? (11/26/2008)
By Christy
Here is the after. Thank all of you so much. I am just amazed at all of the transformations! (11/26/2008)
By Christy
Here is a closeup of the counter! It is hard to get a picture that does it justice. (11/26/2008)
By Christy
and even closer. I wish you could see the glitter effect. My mom in law and I just snicker to our selves every time she shows someone her remodel. They instantly assume she spent a lot of money on granite....ha ha ha! I would not have been able to do it without all the wonderful ideas on here. Thank you thank you thank you! (11/26/2008)
By Christy
Hi everyone,
Wow, you guys are really amazing! Beautiful job on your projects!
I refinished several counter tops in our 2 mobile homes and for my latest project used the envirotex as a top coat. They came out nice and shiny and look exactly like granite but after a few months of use I did get some cloudy scratches in some areas and am wondering, if anyone knows how to polish them out? I looked on envirotex's web site and they recommended furniture polish (did not help) and if that doesn't help to re-coat the surface with another coat of envirotex.
I hope there is something else that might help get the scratches out, I really don't want to re-coat the whole thing. Any ideas?
Thanks for your help!
Bea (11/28/2008)
By Bea
Ok, so I tried the 600 grit wet sanding idea that I posted about a little while back. I had some bumps from the stone paint and using the polyurethane. The sand paper works great!! So far I haven't even used rubbing compound, I just wet sanded and wiped it off with a towel and it's fine! The bumps are gone. When I'm all done sanding, maybe I'll try the compound to see if what it does, but right now I haven't done it. I am so addicted to this site! (11/29/2008)
By Ann Marie
Thank you for all the comments! I had such a fun time with it and can not wait to do my own. The paints I used were a gray tinted primer, black and brown stone spray paints, several shades of black, gray, brown, and white acrylics, white glaze, float (which is a clear liquid that makes things look 3d), iridescent glitter (just a little), fine white or clear glitter, and fine black (a lot of this!). It sounds like a lot, but it really isn't and the work is very much worth the end result!
The cabinet is actually a very dark brown. My mom in law wanted both colors in her bath and that is what I came up with. She literally has shown it off to everyone that comes by....even the cable guy! LOL
Thank you again! I can not wait to do my kitchen! Christy (11/30/2008)
By Christy
Look it's a portal to another dimension (11/30/2008)
By Ben
OK time for round Two. I'm starting the Master Bath, I'm going to go the same technique for the counter top, but a splash of different colors to the last. I'll display the Before Pics here and that after soon. If anyone has some other suggestions please let me know I'd love to hear them while I'm at the job. One thing, any suggestions on how to cover up my shower a little?, Its two glass sliding doors?
(11/30/2008)
By Ben
(11/30/2008)
By Ben
white (11/30/2008)
By Ben
2 coats of stone (11/30/2008)
By Ben
closer up (11/30/2008)
By Ben
Work so Far.
Ive manged to spray the bowl with a fresh white, and complete 2 coats of the stone Spray, I went a darker Spray this time called Harbor Fog Stone Touch from Wal-Mart. Cant wait for it to dry so I can get on the Enviro-Tek.
You'll notice I also drilled an extra hole, this is so the being that fell down the other hole to another dimension have a way of getting back. LOL. No but really I have a soap dispenser left over from my Kitchen remodel so putting it to good use. Oh yeah I had a heck of a time removing that that portal, Ugh it was in there good notice the mess in the Picture.
Heres the pics so far. (11/30/2008)
By Ben
Disaster strikes, Anyone working with Enivro-Tek will be able to relate. So I'm all excited my paint job has dried and looks fantastic, I mix my Enviro-Tek and start to apply it. I'm now at the stage of popping bubbles, I use a hair dryer, seems to work very well. While admiring my work and checking for more bubbles the F'n cat jumps up onto the counter. Now not only has he scratched the S@#t out of the counter he has raced off and dragged Enviro right through the entire house.
Believe me words can not even explain my anger at this time, especially since I have new laminate floors through the house. I'm slowly cleaning up the mess and making the best of what I can on the Bathroom Counter top. Looks like I'm going to have a wait of 2 days, start sanding the top back down where damaged, and try to get it to match the rest again. Looks like I'm in for a long week without a bathroom again no thanks to the F'n cat. Thank goodness I have some Enviro left over, though I am going to need more stone paint now. (12/01/2008)
By Ben
Nebster- I did the enviro and also had a prob while it was drying with my daughter touching it. I took the blow torch I had used for the bubbles and went over it several times and wa la.....no more problem. As long as the enviro is still setting up, you should be able to use the heat to fix it. I'm not sure a blow dryer is hot enough though. As for it being on the cat and everywhere else....try alcohol. You may have to just cut it off the cat though. I dropped some on my floor and once it dried completely, just took a putty knife and it came off wonderfully without damaging the floor. Good luck!
Tricia (12/01/2008)
By tricia
Tricia,
Thanks for the advice, I have some alcohol pads, I'm about the sweep the floor and give it a good cleaning to see if I can find any other spots the cat run while Enviroed. I dont have a blow torch this time, I think I got most of it up though. As for the cat, I wish I could take the blow torch to it, Ugh, Kidding. I gave him a good bath and used dish soap on his paws, I did my best, will just have to watch him over time I guess. (12/01/2008)
By Ben
Wanted to update all of you that worried about me using my hands(thanks). I did use latex throw away gloves and it works wonders. It was so fast and smoothing it out with my hands (with gloves) was great! Just wanted to let you know.
One question...what do you use on sinks in bathroom to retouch and paint? Do you need to prime first? Enviro over it? (12/01/2008)
By dee
Thats depends on if you plan to take the sink out ever, if you Enviro-Tek it in there you may never get it out again. I would best say take it out before you start for better results. Mine is part of the counter so I painted it to. (12/02/2008)
By Ben
And the results are in! Well somewhat, still need to put the mirror up and frame it, and decorate the shower somehow? Im also thinking of some beard paneling along the walls. (12/02/2008)
By Ben
(12/02/2008)
By Ben
(12/02/2008)
By Ben
So has anybody done their counters, thought they looked pretty good...and then when you see everyone else's, you start thinking they don't look near as good as theirs? lol I am at that point:( So be truthful, are mine ugly? lol (12/03/2008)
By tricia
And here is an "aerial" view. Seems to not shine so much from this view and you can see the colors better. Are they ugly? lol The floor is getting replaced with wood, so try to visualize that. (12/03/2008)
By tricia
OMG. I haven't been able to get on here in a few days. I hate it when that happens! I miss so much! LOL I used tinted primer made for glossy surfaces, enviro (yes, I have a horror story), and no I did not take out the sink. I just taped it off. I pulled the tape off before the enviro dried and it worked fine for me. YES, I still have a few bumpies from the spray paint even after two coats of enviro.
Here is my enviro horror story.....
After I put the enviro on I got a little bored while babysitting it so I decided to paint the beadboard that I put up behind the toilet (which is right next to the counter). So, I am sitting backwards on the toilet and painting behind it when I drop my brush. Not thinking about the enviro I flipped my hair (which was down to my bra strap) over my left shoulder and grabbed my paint brush off the floor.
When I tried to get up I could not....sigh. My hair...just about every single bit of it landed on the counter when I flipped it....yeah. It stuck in the enviro. I could not get up. I had to hold my hair very close to my head with both hands and pull...HARD. Needless to say I no longer have long hair, had to cut off about 10 inches. I couldn't even give it to Locks of Love cuz it was hard as glass! There were several strands of hair I could not get out of the counter, so needless to say my mother in law is now stuck with my DNA forever. LOL!
So, after loosing my hair...literally. I wasn't so much worried about the bumpies. She can live with them. LOL! (12/03/2008)
By Christy
Thanks for all the awesome comments, I cant wait to finish the rest of the bathroom. My friends have also said it looks like an under mount sink. I chose a Black Rose Brown for the Cabinets, again from Wal-mart, I love this color, its dark and rich in color, think I'll use it for my Kitchen Cabinets. The photos look crappy really and don't do a justice. Scroll down for the Before and During pics.
For everyone wondering about Enviro in your sink! This is the second one I have done in my house, both were the same type. The first one still looks awesome and its been a few months. Be sure to get as good tape line.
Instructions:
1. take off all the old hardware -
2. Sand down countertop and sink, be sure to get all nooks and crannies -
3. Clean and wipe off all loose dust -
4. Spray paint bowl and counter, I used a primer then a white plastic spray paint, I also sprayed the whole counter -
5. Once paint had dried completely (approx 1 day) I carefully taped off the line in the sink, I had to use several short pieces of painters tape due to mine being a seashell shaped bowl.
6. Be sure to press hard on the tape, even take a plastic paint scraper and run it along the edge of the tape to ensure it has stuck to the bowl. This will help seal the tape so nothing seaps under it and give you that clean edge.
7. I used plastic bags in the sink then taped off the edges to the bag as you see in the picture here, (this is to protect my newly painted sink.-
8. I the painted my stone spray, I had to do 2 coats.
9. Allow to dray at least 1 day and about 4 hr between stone paint coats.-
10. Remove bags and tape while wet, at least I do, but do this slowly and carefully, this way you'll keep you straight edge/line. If a few stone flecks fall in the sink dont stress, this happened to me to once dry they can be easily brushed out.
11. Now Enviro-Tek it, pour it across the top so it runs down the backsplash, across the counters and around the top edge of the sink, I made sure to pour a good amount around the edge of the sink and it slowly pours down the sides and through the drain hole, if needed I brushed the sides with a foam brush.
Be sure to have something underneath the drain hole and faucet areas for the Enviro to land in.
12. Be sure to watch the Enviro and pop those bubbles as the appear with a blow torch or blow on them.
13. Let dry, take a few days to be hard, hard. But worth the wait. I was able to fit all my faucets and drains late the next day. BUT I did have to careful take a knife/Razor to the drain hole as the Enviro made it smaller. wasn't hard though just took my time and was careful to edge it out a bit till the drain fit. I dremmel sander would have been perfect but I don't have one.
Whalla! Your done, Looks Bloody good huh.
(12/03/2008)
By Ben
OK Ladies and Gentlemen....drum roll please! I took the plunge and here are the before and after pictures of my kitchen. Now, remember, my house is only 4 years old and I live in Florida so I wanted nice Fla colors (nothing dark) and I wanted a real eye-catching counter top. I had to repaint the back wall because on the "before" pictures you will see that the back wall is "soft wheat" and now that the countertops are done, it is antique white so it would not clash with the counters. So here are 2 before pictures. (12/03/2008)
As you can see the before photos, I HAD white sink, white faucets, white countertops, white cabinets, white 18" ceramic floors, and white appliances. (12/03/2008)
Here are the "after pictures" of my countertops and YES, I DID remove the sink before starting. (12/03/2008)
Another view of finished product (12/03/2008)
I'm trying to get a close up view so you can see the coloring, but a camera does not do it justice. (12/03/2008)
Hi Zen:
The project time depends of course on how much counter space you are doing, but generally it can be done in a few hours and takes the enviro about 2-3 days to harden completely.
The enviro is a hard sealer and here is a link to it: http://www.eti-usa.com/consum/envtex/envlite.htm
The easiest way to choose your colors is to go to Lowe's or someplace like that and get their samples of granite colors. Or you can also do a google search online and pull up all kinds of samples.
As for rookie mistakes, well there can be several. Like getting it on the floor, the cabinets, your hair...the cat lol. The main thing is, let everything dry good and keep working a torch over the enviro to get out air bubbles. I don't recommend using any kind of oil paint as they take forever to dry. I used the little bottles of art enamel paint from Wal-Mart.
As for how long it lasts, I've seen several people that have had it done for 3+ years with no problem. The enviro is very tough and durable, however I have had a problem with it scratching easily.
Tricia (12/05/2008)
By tricia
Well its been a interesting weekend, IM almost done with our Bathroom (minus the scratches from the cat). I'll post pictures on Tuesday. Just need to frame the mirror. Thanks for the advice and tips people, Oh and if you cat gets into Enviro, get him/her to the vet, we had to go in the end and was an expensive trip close to $350. Grooming, blood work and one not so well and grumpy kitty. Thankfully he is perking up again. *Future note Remember to close doors behind you in you have animals when working with Enviro, or little kids. lol.
(Kiity before Enviro-tek)
(12/07/2008)
By Ben
Well here's the final results, I still think I'll add a little bead board late down the track. The lighting isn't the best so the picture don't do a justice. It's really nice overall, (minus the cat scratches). (12/08/2008)
By Ben
Bathroom Before (12/08/2008)
By Ben
I think it was called Black Rose and we got it from Wal-Mart, Its a dark Brown Reddish(maybe even a burgundy) color, very rich so to speak. Its took 3 coats to get a good coverage, but we love it, we're going to do our kitchen cabinets in the same color now.
Thanks for the comments, and suggestions, Florida gal I think the valance idea came from you, we picked ours up from Ross-Dress for Less for $10, $20 if you include the shower rod to hang it from. We probably spent less than $50 in total for the whole makeover.
(12/09/2008)
By Ben
HandySabrina,
Post a picture of your cabinets close up, I thought about creating a Shaker Style Cabinet by adding a small flat trim around the edge of the cabinet, then painting, however due to a beveled edge on the top and bottom I don't think I can. Also new hardware goes along way, we just ordered 26 new handles for our kitchen, we're getting ready to paint ours.
(12/09/2008)
I am so excited! We never even thought to paint our countertops. Now I have a project that is not going to be a bank buster :) BTW I think I have your cat's long lost brother. He is so naughty and I can just see him now trying to "help" so I think he will be banned to the basement or a bedroom. (12/09/2008)
By diannabyers
I wanted to thank all of you that have posted your pictures & steps to your projects. This website has been invaluable to me. I have started on my kitchen counters. Here is the before pic. The counters were off-white & have been soooo frustrating to keep clean! I have done the smaller counter sections and will tackle the large one this weekend. (12/09/2008)
I am so happy with how they look! We had quotes for $5000 to replace all our counters with granite & I will finish this for @ $100! We also plan to replace the 80's hunter green floor tiles with vinyl tiles and I'm going to glaze the cabinets. (these projects will have to wait until after the holidays) (12/09/2008)
Here's a close up. It really is hard to get one that does it justice. I had some trouble with the tape so I will have to touch up the paint. (12/09/2008)
OK Ladies I promised a few in progress pics of the bathroom.
I am still undecided on what to put up to the window.
I had the white wood blinds, but they always stayed dirty. So I have taken them down.
Will post some before pics, for those of you that didn't see the ugly Bathroom before :)
Thanks for looking
Gail (12/10/2008)
By Gail
(12/10/2008)
By Gail
(12/10/2008)
By Gail
(12/10/2008)
By Gail
(12/10/2008)
By Gail
(12/10/2008)
By Gail
Looking good there Gail
-Ben (12/10/2008)
By Ben
Great job Gail! It looks awesome and I LOVE the wall color! And you painted the tub? My bathroom is my nightmare. Really even in my dreams at night lol. My house was built in 1926 and has the original light GREEN pedestal sink, tub and toilet! YIKES! I am going to replace the sink completely, but didn't know what to do with the tub and toilet. Think I can paint them? Did you use a special primer and paint for tubs or was it for plastic like somewhere else I've read? After seeing your bathroom, now I'm anxious to get going on mine!
Tricia
PS - Nebster, how's little kitty doing? He is adorable! (12/10/2008)
By tricia
Thanks for the comments! I do have alot of counter left. LOL! There is actually more than you can see in the before picture. I will be busy this weekend:) I'll post better up close pics after I finish the rest. I used the black granite spray and the mineral brown but you can't see that in the pictures. I used Varathane Diamond oil based sealer & have about 5 coats at this point. I was too scared to take on that amount of square footage with the enviro. Maybe I will be braver when I do the bathroom! I've been motivated by all the great bathrooms this week:)
Lesley (12/10/2008)
Both colors were the Valspar Stone Spray - Black Granite (black with white specks) & Mineral Brown (brown with black specks). I sprayed an almost complete coverage with the black and lightly sprayed the brown. I sanded after it dried overnight before beginning sealing. After the 1st seal I used a toothbrush with a few different craft paints to splatter little specks.
I had brown, copper and light gold paints. Then I sprinkled fine black glitter and white "snowflake" glitter (both are Martha Stewart brand at Michael's) then continued to seal. The diamond is easy and seems very forgiving but I still have a little bit of bumps. I did lightly spot sand between some coats of sealer and that seemed to help. There is a goldish tint to the diamond but that works good for the black and brown but could alter some other colors.
Here is a closer picture. It looks grayer than it really is and the colors are a little off because of the glare.
Lesley (12/10/2008)
I don't see pictures of the beautiful bath CPalm did for her mother-in-law. Are older posts removed? Would you please post those again? All of you, I love your bathroom and kitchen redos. Such inspiration! Thanks.
Editor's Note: Our site currently only shows the 50 most recent feedbacks. There have been so many new feedback that they have been pushed off the page I will try to get those photos up so you all can see them as soon as possible. (12/11/2008)
By LaRhee
Hey Guest, Sorry to be the one to tell you this, but you should have used a sponge roller from the beginning and not a spray sealer. You can sand it off lightly not all of it. And then roll a coat of water based primer over them and spray paint your coating again and then recoat with an oil based primer , but you have to roll it on not spray it on!
Very, Very Important!
(12/11/2008)
By Gail
Hey fowlkes I never used the epoxy, but from what I know is that if you gouged it , sounds serious. I would try and sand it lightly and reseal, but you might want to see if gator girl or someone else can help you.
Good luck, Gail (12/11/2008)
By Gail
Crazy, but I just threw more Parks Super Glaze over the top, and you can't even tell there was a gouge! And where I sanded, I thought the scratches would show up...NOTHING! Luckily, the gouge wasn't down to the paint underneath. It looks FABULOUS! I'll get pics up! (12/11/2008)
By Laura
Trinity,
With Enivro I didn't have much of an issue with it pooling, since its self leveling it really smoothed itself out. I did have to wipe our my sink a little though.
(12/13/2008)
By Ben
Pictures of Before
(12/13/2008)
By Laura
Picture of After
(12/13/2008)
By Laura
Close up of counter
(12/13/2008)
By Laura
I am a big fan of this site. I painted my countertops last summer and LOVE them. One thing I am not seeing on the current posts is the option of using Diamond Varthane Floor Poly. That was suggested last summer and it is what I used. I was afraid of enviro and didn't want the yellowing of oil poly. It turned out GREAT. I used plastic grocery bags (at the suggestion of someone else) to pounce my colors. They came out, as promised, not looking sponged. Over Christmas, I am going to do my bathroom with the spray stone. I love what I have seen. (12/14/2008)
By Beth
I just poured it on the top of the backsplash so it ran down the front and onto the counter. It sealed up the space between the wall and backsplash. You will only get one coat on the backsplash, but it makes it nice and shiny. It will also seal the crack between the counter and the backsplash. I don't think you need more than one coast on the backsplash. (12/14/2008)
By Laura
Beth, I used the Varathane Diamond and am very happy with it. I used foam roller and brush to apply it. I too was intimidated by the enviro with a large counter space.
BTW.. I finished spraying my main countertop this weekend and will post pics when finished. Thanks! (12/14/2008)
Here's the before and after pictures of my kitchen "facelift" I am so proud! I am also thankful to this website and all of your advice! It's hard to believe just what you can do yourself! I did it all myself, and I know now, I don't EVER want to sand my cabinet doors again! (12/15/2008)
Great Job Ladies
I am still in my guest bathroom :)
I still have to replace the faucet and do some more base molding, but it looks a 100% better.
I need some ideas on what to put on the wall above the toilet?
Oh and I am still working on my Mirror Frame. Should be finished by this Weekend.
Between Christmas Parties and Work, who can keep up :)
Any advice anyone...Please Suggestions?? You all have such great info :)
Gail (12/16/2008)
By Gail
Here's my finished product! Can't believe the difference. I only wish I had a "before" picture to post!
Thanks! (12/16/2008)
By sally
One more pic of my "new" bathroom.
Thanks to everyone! (12/16/2008)
By sally
SP0008, it looks gorgeous! I think just a simple tab top valance in the darker brown look great in my opinion. The wood work and vanity look good to me, it brings in the depth of color. (12/16/2008)
Here's the better pics of my kitchen (12/16/2008)
I've been looking at this and also 'transforming countertops' for awhile. I tried mine! (12/17/2008)
By In2Paint
By sally
One more pic of my "new" bathroom.
Thanks to everyone! (12/16/2008)
By sally
SP0008, it looks gorgeous! I think just a simple tab top valance in the darker brown look great in my opinion. The wood work and vanity look good to me, it brings in the depth of color. (12/16/2008)
Heres the better pics of my kitchen (12/16/2008)
I've been looking at this and also 'transforming countertops' for awhile. I tried mine! (12/17/2008)
By In2Paint
That was yesterday. Don't you all love my hideous wallpaper? Lol. I haven't put the topcoat on yet and I'm waiting for my paint to dry, but here it is (12/17/2008)
By In2Paint
Me and my wife did the envirotech counter top refinish, not fun stuff to work with. If you set any really hot pot or pan it will scuff the surface. There's no way to keep every bubble out of the finish, it looks real "home made" do it your self when its all said and done. Pictures look good, but by the touch you can tell something different! Thumbs down on all this. (12/18/2008)
By gerald
prior
HI Gail, Gatorgirl etc.
Repost your results - love my results and all yours!
gerald - everyone loves ours! (12/18/2008)
By Pattie
After. HEY Gail, Gatorgirl etc. Agreed! Repost your all your results - love my results and all yours!
Gerald - everyone loves ours! Definitely not cheesy - I have requests to do many other friends and family! They are amazed - and think its granite!
YOU must have messed up!
(12/18/2008)
By Pattie
sp0008,
Looks really awesome! If you are not happy with your woodwork, did you try lemon oil or bees wax on them? It will bring back the wood. (12/18/2008)
By Pattie
Hi! On my countertop, I used primer, 2 basecoats of a mud gray, and then I sponged on two other grays and a brown. I didn't think the first gray showed up a lot anymore so I went and sponged on a little more of that. I read a post here where someone let it dry between sponging colors, but I didn't, I thought it blended nicely when they were all done at once. I just used a different sponge for each color. Also I added a bit of glitter (in hematite!) which makes it really sparkle tho you can't see it in the picture, you can in person! It looks great though my cell phone takes pics that leave a lot to be desired. Lol! And I used Minwax Polycrylic...water based, on top. (12/19/2008)
By In2Paint
Namaruth2,
Let the enviro or poly run the edge for you and fall off onto the floor, make sure there is something to protect it of course. Use a foam brush to brush under the edges periodically also I found it easy to cut away or sand off dry drip marks. (12/20/2008)
By Ben
Question: Most of you have the countertops that are rounded, all one piece. What about when there is a straight edge at a right angle, where the top and the sides meet, and you can see the edge of the formica? Does the edge take the paint just as well as the rest of the formica? Thanks!
P.S. Everyone's projects look so wonderful. I'm still a little scared to try it, but probably will give it a try. (12/20/2008)
By Lahree
Ok here it is, I'll have to get a better shot later of the other side, Lighting is kinda bad, but looks great. Now just possibly a small tile backsplash, not sure?
Ben (12/20/2008)
By Ben
Originally (12/20/2008)
By Ben
Hello! I finally have my kitchen back together and thought I would post another pic. I still have a few other projects to do in here but I LOVE my new counters and they are getting great reviews from family and friends!
Nebster your kitchen looks great! You can't even tell the cabinets are laminate! Bresy, In2paint, Gsmiles, Fowkes5, Mello, sp0008-- all look great! My comment to not putting hot pans on the counter is I couldn't do that before and now my counters at least look good:) Good luck to anyone considering doing this. I know I researched this site for weeks before I made the leap. (12/20/2008)
Cindy, I think interior paint will work, but I'm not sure. Hopefully someone will be able to answer that for you.
I believe there was someone who practiced their painting technique on something before doing the counter tops. Did you use a sample laminate counter top or something else? I may get a sample and practice on that first before doing my counter top. I am hoping to get started on my kitchen in Feb with all the painting, installing and painting beadboard, and repainting the cabinets. I'm so excited I can't wait! (12/27/2008)
By June
Cindy, It seems like there was an older post that someone said they used leftover latex paints to faux finish their counters. I think as with any of these if you prime and seal it will work. I would never have thought to use spray paint! I definitely recommend practicing at least on a piece of scrap wood to make sure it's what you want.
Scrappinmama, I matched my cabinet paint today The closest match was Valspar "malted milk" in semi-gloss. I'm touching up this weekend so I can glaze them. I'll post pics when I'm done. (12/27/2008)
I primed first, but I used interior latex semi gloss paints and polycrylic on top, on mine. So far so good, lol! (12/28/2008)
By In2Paint
Craftygirlz,
Your kitchen looks awesome! I am looking to paint my cabinets white and trying for a black granite countertop look. Could you please tell me where to start!
(12/30/2008)
By lynn wright
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