Ever wanted to apply epoxy resin coating to your laminate countertops but didn’t think you had the time or the money? Well, we’re here to tell you that we’ve found a way for you to do it yourself, and without breaking the bank.
This article will introduce you to the different ways of applying epoxy resin coatings on your laminate countertops.
You’ll find all the information you need for each step of this process, from getting your supplies together to setting up a work area, preparing your surface, and mixing your resins.
After reading this guide and following these steps, you’ll know how to apply epoxy resin coatings yourself so that they look great and last for years.
How do you epoxy a laminate countertop?
You’ll need to sand the laminate surface first, then you need to remove all the dust.
Next, you apply the base coat and epoxy in several layers approximately one-eighth inch thick. To do this, you’ll use what’s known as a paint roller. Let it dry overnight between each layer. Then give it time to cure for at least 24 hours before using your countertop again.
Table of Contents
- How do you epoxy a laminate countertop?
- How do you apply epoxy to countertops?
- Can you put epoxy on top of laminate?
- Can you pour epoxy over laminate?
- How long does epoxy last on countertops?
- How well do epoxy countertops hold up?
- How hard is it to do epoxy countertops?
- What kind of epoxy do you use on countertops?
How do you apply epoxy to countertops?
To apply epoxy to countertops, first, use a sanding block to sand the laminate surface evenly. Then wipe down the countertop with a dry cloth to remove any dust.
Next, mix your two-part epoxy according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it by pouring a thin layer of it onto the countertop, then spreading it out with a paintbrush.
Make sure that you cover all of the surfaces uniformly so there are no bubbles or gaps where you applied too much or too little epoxy.
Once you’ve finished applying your first coat, wait for it to dry completely before adding another coat in exactly the same way as before.
Finally, after your second coat has dried thoroughly, seal and protect your newly-glossy countertops by covering them with contact paper for at least 12 hours.
Can you put epoxy on top of laminate?
Epoxy can be applied directly to laminate countertops. The only issue is that the area should be properly sealed before applying the epoxy coating. Laminate countertops are often made of particleboard, and so they must first be sealed with a wood sealer or primer prior to being coated with epoxy.
The epoxy should then be applied using a brush or roller and left to dry overnight. When it comes time for the second coat, ensure that you’re not over-brushing it—too much movement can cause ripples in the epoxy’s surface. Allow 24 hours between coats for best results.
Can you pour epoxy over laminate?
The answer is yes. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that you can just pour epoxy directly over your laminate countertop and expect it to look good.
That’s not going to work. There are a few steps you have to take first if you want your epoxy countertops to turn out correctly and look nice.
If you don’t know what those steps are, keep reading because I’m about to tell you everything you need to know about pouring epoxy over laminate countertops.
How long does epoxy last on countertops?
Once epoxy is cured and fully bonded to a surface, removing it is very difficult. In many applications, a properly applied epoxy can last for years. (Our clear coat finishes are designed to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of commercial kitchen use.)
Epoxy adheres best to surfaces that are clean and free of dirt, grease, or other contaminants. Epoxy will not bond well with silicone or wax.
How well do epoxy countertops hold up?
Epoxy countertops are incredibly durable. Because epoxy has a high resistance to heat, water, and most chemicals, it does not wear away quickly.
Epoxy countertops are also easy to clean and resistant to wear. What does this mean for you? It means that your kitchen will look fresh for years on end. Epoxy countertops can last for many years and keep your kitchen looking beautiful for decades.
How hard is it to do epoxy countertops?
Good news! Epoxy countertops are fairly easy to install and don’t require any expensive equipment. You will need safety glasses, gloves, a respirator mask, an orbital sander, a heat gun or blow dryer, epoxy resin and hardener (the amount of each will depend on what kind you get), microfiber cloths (you’ll want at least two), a non-ammonia based cleaner or denatured alcohol for primer and clean up.
If you can catch your dad looking cool in his garage in the 80s wearing all of that stuff at once—it’s a winner!
When it comes to color choices: be bold! The beauty of epoxy is that it can be tinted with just about any color. Use your imagination—or search Pinterest for DIY epoxy countertop ideas.
Beyond the tools we mentioned above there isn’t much that’s required beyond basic DIY skills to create an attractive laminate surface that looks like granite or marble.
All you have to do is sand the existing surface to help it bond with the new one and make sure you mask off anything you don’t want covered in epoxy resin—this stuff sticks like crazy so it may not come off without damaging whatever surface it’s attached to (so don’t go too wild).
Once everything has been cleaned and prepped, apply the primer first before pouring on the epoxy which should be tinted with pigment drops if you decided on a custom color.
After applying the first layer of colored epoxy wait 24 hours until applying a second layer. Once this step is complete wait 72 hours before using your new creative masterpiece!
What kind of epoxy do you use on countertops?
- Bartop Epoxy
- Countertop epoxy
- Tabletop epoxy
- Liquid glass epoxy resin
- Araldite (not technically an epoxy)
- Gorilla Epoxy
Conclusion
By now, you should be ready to apply epoxy to your laminate countertops. It’s a great solution for older surfaces. The process may seem simple, but it’s important not to rush through it, since that can result in a subpar finish.
You’ll want to take the time and care necessary to give yourself the best result possible.
After all, the investment and effort of applying epoxy are worth it when your older surface manages to look brand new again.