5 Quick Ways To Cover Kitchen Countertops (Without Replacing Them)
If you're looking for an easy and affordable way to update your kitchen, consider covering your countertops. You don't have to spend a fortune on a full countertop replacement – there are plenty of options for covering your existing countertops and giving your kitchen a fresh new look.
No need to deal with the mess and time consumption of removing old countertops – just roll up your sleeves and get creative with these easy DIY ideas. Save money and transform your kitchen with these quick and affordable covering options.
Here are five ways to cover your kitchen countertops without replacing them so you can transform your kitchen on a budget. From colorful backsplashes to patterned contact paper, these ideas will help you create the kitchen of your dreams without breaking the bank.
5 Different Ways To Cover A Kitchen Countertop
Covering a kitchen countertop is a great way of bringing new life into your kitchen without the hassle of removing everything - and that is before the full cost too.
While we have suggested five ways, each one requires a different approach and level of skill. They also may take a different length of time too.
With this in mind, we also want to point out that each method has its own durability. Fortunately for you, we have made notes of everything to make it easier for you to choose the way that is right for you.
1. Peel And Stick
An easy way to give kitchen countertops a fresh new look is by using a product which allows you to peel and stick it to the surface.
The peel-and-stick products usually come in a variety of styles. For example, they can look like wood or even have a marble effect.
It gives you the option to completely change the design of your kitchen. Plus, application of this product is generally easy, though you will need to prepare the countertops before applying it.
They need to be clean and free of any greasy substances. You will then need to be very accurate when applying the paper, and make sure to remove any air bubbles that may get trapped underneath.
You will also need to cut the product to size too, so a sharp knife will do the trick rather than scissors.
While using a peel-and-stick is a great idea, it will not last forever. For this reason, it is great to use on rented properties or for when you want a temporary solution. It also means you can keep changing the look of your kitchen if you wish.
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2. Paint
One of the easiest ways of covering your kitchen countertops is by painting over them. It is a lot more permanent than using a peel-and-stick, though you will need to use a paint which will work.
Fortunately, an acrylic paint used for the interior of a house should do the trick, even painted on a laminate surface. Otherwise, you could opt for a specialized countertop paint such as Giani’s.
You will need to spend time preparing the surface of the countertops before painting, so make sure it is exactly what you want to go ahead and do.
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Not only will the countertops need to be free of debris, but you will need to lightly sand the surface. This ensures the paint will stick to it better.
If you are using a paint that has been made for countertops, then you will not need to use a primer. However, if you are using regular paint, then you will want to prime the surface first.
And here is a tip: use a paint roller for an even surface, and apply at least two coats for full coverage. Also, if using an acrylic paint, seal the surface with a special resin made for countertops.
3. Tiles
Another option is to use tiles to cover the surface. This works particularly well on a laminate countertop too.
However, you need to make sure the surface is both level and not broken, as the tiles will need an almost perfect surface to stick to.
Even so, you may want to have some knowledge in this area before you undertake this big task. This is because you will need to clean and sand the countertop, use a laminate adhesive, then the fiberglass paper, and a light coating of mortar.
Only then will you be able to install tiles. This option may also take more than a day to do.
4. Refinishing Kit
A dedicated refinishing kit has all that you will need to bring new life into your kitchen countertops. It includes the tools and the paint you will want to use to achieve the desired look, such as a marble effect.
It is very similar to painting the kitchen yourself, from cleaning and sanding to painting layers and providing a protective coat.
However, it is a complete kit that enables you to have everything in order to achieve professional looking countertops. Just make sure that the refinishing kit you choose can be used on your countertop surface.
The last thing you’ll want is to spend time finding the perfect kit, only to find you cannot use it.
5. Contact Paper
Using contact paper is a temporary solution, often used when you want to have a fresh looking kitchen before you have the permanent work done.
It is not as durable as the above methods and may peel away before too long. So keep this in mind when looking for a long-term solution.
It can be a little tricky to measure and cut, but with a little time and effort the desired look can be achieved quite painlessly.
However, if you are a novice, you may want to take some steps to avoid it looking shabby. For example, buy more paper than you need. If you make mistakes, you have back-up paper to use.
Practice at cutting the paper and make sure you are able to line it up with your countertop correctly.
To stop the paper from peeling, use a strong adhesive to keep it in place. However, because this paper isn’t as durable, it may suffer from scratches and nicks, so keep long fingernails away from the surface.
FAQ
Q: Can I cover my kitchen countertops myself?
A: Yes, many options for covering kitchen countertops are suitable for DIY projects. However, it's always a good idea to do some research and make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your ability to complete the project before starting.
Q: What materials can I use to cover my kitchen countertops?
A: There are many materials you can use to cover your kitchen countertops, including:
- Granite countertop film
- Peel-and-stick tiles
- Backsplash panels
- Contact paper
- Concrete overlays
- Laminate sheets
Q: How long do kitchen countertop covers last?
A: The lifespan of a kitchen countertop cover will depend on the material and how well it is maintained. Some materials, like granite countertop film and peel-and-stick tiles, may last for several years with proper care. Others, like contact paper and laminate sheets, may need to be replaced more frequently.
Q: Can I cover my kitchen countertops with any type of material?
A: It's important to consider the durability and compatibility of the material you choose to cover your kitchen countertops. Some materials, like concrete overlays and backsplash panels, may be too heavy for certain countertops and may require additional support. It's always a good idea to check with a professional or do some research before selecting a material to ensure it will work for your specific countertops.
Q: Can I use kitchen countertop covers to hide damage or imperfections on my existing countertops?
A: Yes, kitchen countertop covers can be used to conceal damage or imperfections on your existing countertops. However, it's important to properly prepare the surface and make any necessary repairs before applying the cover to ensure the best possible result.
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Final Thoughts
There are many ways to update the look of your kitchen countertops without the hassle and expense of replacing them.
From painting and tiling to using peel-and-stick paper, you have a range of options for both short-term and long-term changes that can give your kitchen a fresh, new look.
Looking for inexpensive countertop ideas to give your kitchen a facelift? Try resurfacing laminate countertops with new laminate sheets or paint. For a quick update, install peel-and-stick tile backsplash over an existing tile backsplash. Tiles come in unlimited styles and are easy to cut to fit your space. Another budget-friendly option is faux granite countertops, which have the elegant look of real stone without the hefty price tag. With creative and affordable options like contact paper, concrete resurfacing kits, or refinishing your existing countertops, you can achieve high-end style on a budget. Focus on quick, cheap countertop ideas that transform the look without replacing your current countertops.
With a little creativity, you can find inexpensive solutions to update your countertops and backsplash. Browse our kitchen remodeling content for more clever and cost-effective ways to refresh your space. Get tips on installing new materials over existing countertops and backsplashes to save time and money. We'll help you makeover your kitchen with easy DIY projects, materials like tile backsplash and faux granite countertops, and other inexpensive countertop ideas.
The best method for you will depend on your skill level and how long you want the changes to last. Peel-and-stick paper may not be as long-lasting as tiling, but it's much easier to install. If you're looking for a temporary solution, contact paper could be a good option.
And there you have it...
If your kitchen countertops are looking worn, but you don't want to go through the hassle and expense of fully replacing them, consider the options above to refresh their look. Here are a couple more thoughts.
- Resurface laminate countertops. Resurfacing involves sanding down the existing laminate and applying new laminate over top. This affordable option lets you choose a brand new color and pattern to update the look.
- Explore alternative countertop ideas like tile or concrete. Installing tile or poured concrete on top of your existing countertops can give them a completely new vibe. Tiles come in endless options and concrete can be stained, polished, or stamped.
- Look into solid surface countertops. Materials like quartz are durable, low-maintenance, and have the polished look of marble countertops at a lower cost.
- Create affordable DIY countertops with wood or stained concrete. For a rustic farmhouse feel, wood countertops can be made from inexpensive materials like plywood. Concrete can also be stained and sealed for a budget-friendly concrete look.
- Keep costs low with the cheapest countertops. Options like plastic laminate, wood veneer, or butcher block can be installed right over your old countertops for an instant upgrade.
With a little creativity, you can give your kitchen a whole new look without the expense of full countertop replacement. Try one of the quick and easy options we've discussed here to cover and breathe new life into your existing countertops.
Good luck!