Painting quartz countertops can give your kitchen a quick and affordable facelift. With the right prep work and paint application, you can change the color of your quartz countertop without replacing the entire countertop. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of painting quartz countertops step-by-step.
Introduction to Painting Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from crushed quartz bound together with resin, pigments, and other compounds. The resulting material is non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable, making quartz a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
However, like all countertop materials, quartz is not immune to damage over time. Scratches, etching, and discoloration can occur. Replacing the entire quartz countertop is expensive, with the national average cost around $2,000.
Painting is an affordable alternative to completely replacing quartz countertops. With proper surface preparation and paint application, you can give your countertops a brand new look for a fraction of the cost of new countertops.
Painting quartz allows you to:
- Change the color of your countertops
- Cover up scratches, etching, or stains
- Update the look of your kitchen or bath for a low cost
- Avoid the high price of new countertop installation
Keep in mind that painting quartz countertops requires commitment. The process takes time, effort, and careful attention to detail. The finished look will not have the flawless appearance of new, professionally installed countertops. But for many homeowners, painted countertops provide an updated aesthetic at a reasonable cost.
How to Paint Quartz Countertops
Follow these steps to successfully paint your quartz countertops:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Proper surface preparation is crucial for good paint adhesion. Your quartz countertops must be completely clean and dull for the paint to properly bond.
Here is how to prepare quartz countertops for painting:
Clean thoroughly
Use a degreasing cleaner or mix together warm water and tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) to remove all dirt, grease, waxes, and residues from the countertops. Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely.
Sand to dull the surface
Use 220-400 grit sandpaper to scuff up the shiny quartz surface. This allows the paint to penetrate and adhere. Sand the entire surface until it has a uniform dull appearance.
Remove sanding dust
Wipe the countertops with a dry cloth followed by a tack cloth. Make sure all sanding dust is removed.
Apply etching cream (optional)
For maximum paint adhesion, use an etching cream after sanding. Apply a thin, even coat with a paintbrush and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and let dry before painting.
Proper cleaning, sanding, and etching ensures the new paint bonds securely to the quartz.
Step 2. Add Paint Adhesion Promoter
After cleaning and sanding, apply a paint adhesion promoter or primer made specifically for countertops and quartz. Adhesion promoters increase paint grip and prevent chipping or peeling. Allow to dry fully before painting.
Some good options include:
- Giani Countertop Paint Adhesion Coat
- INSL-X Cabinet Coat Bonding Primer
- Rust-Oleum Countertop Transformation Primer
Step 3. Apply Countertop Paint
Once your surface is prepped, you can apply paint to transform the look of your quartz countertops. Use a high-quality countertop paint designed for surfaces like quartz, laminate, solid surface, and more.
Look for paint with these features:
- Durable epoxy or urethane formulation
- Countertop-specific paint adhesion properties
- Moisture-resistance
- Ability to withstand hot pans and abrasion
- Easy soap and water cleanup
Be sure to use countertop paint and NOT regular paint, which will not hold up on quartz.
Follow all label instructions carefully. In general, painting procedure goes as follows:
- Stir paint well before and during application
- Use a smooth foam roller and angled brush
- Apply in thin, even coats
- Allow proper dry time between coats
- Apply 2-3 coats for full coverage
- Let cure fully before use
Patience is key! Allow each coat to dry thoroughly according to manufacturer guidelines before adding another coat. Proper cure time prevents issues like cracking or diminished durability.
Step 4. Seal with a Finish Coat (optional)
For extra protection and easier cleaning, apply a finish coat over the cured paint. Polyurethane, epoxy resin, or a specialized countertop sealant prevents paint wear and creates a smooth finish.
Choose a water-based, low odor product intended for countertops. Carefully apply 1-2 thin coats with a foam roller according to label directions.
Sealing the paint provides an added layer of protection and longevity for your painted quartz countertops.
Step 5. Use and Maintain the Finished Countertops
Once painting is complete, allow 1-2 weeks for the paint to fully cure before regular use. Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface during this time.
To care for painted quartz countertops:
- Use a cutting board and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans
- Clean with a mild soap and water
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
- Re-seal every 1-2 years for optimal durability
- Touch up paint immediately if any chips appear
With proper care, painted quartz countertops can look fresh and new for many years before needing to re-paint.
Tips for Success Painting Quartz Countertops
Follow these tips and tricks to ensure your painted quartz countertops turn out beautifully:
- Test paint colors on a quartz sample or scrap piece first
- Tape off walls, backsplashes, and edges for clean paint lines
- Work in sections for easier application and drying
- Maintain a wet edge while painting to prevent lap marks
- Use good lighting to see streaks or uneven coverage
- Apply thin coats of paint instead of thick coats
- Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for prep and application
- Be patient during prep work, paint drying, and curing times
Proper planning, preparation, paint application, and maintenance are the keys to successfully painting quartz countertops.
Painting vs. Replacing Quartz Countertops
Painting and replacing both have pros and cons when it comes to upgrading your quartz countertops:
Painting Quartz Countertops
Pros
- Very affordable (less than $150 for supplies)
- Quick DIY project taking 1 weekend
- No template or countertop purchase needed
- Change color without replacing counters
- Ideal for rentals or temporary updates
Cons
- Doesn’t have seamless look of new quartz
- More long-term maintenance required
- Shorter lifespan than new counters
- Potential for imperfections in finish
Replacing Quartz Countertops
Pros
- Beautiful, seamless appearance
- Wide range of color/pattern options
- Extremely durable for decades
- Easy maintenance
- Increase home resale value
Cons
- Much more expensive ($1,500 – $4,000 professionally installed)
- Lengthy process – up to 3 weeks
- Template and new countertop purchase required
- Permanent color/style change
As you can see, painting is the budget-friendly alternative for a quick kitchen update, while replacement is the long-term investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about painting quartz countertops:
What type of paint should I use?
Use high-quality countertop paint like Giani or Rust-Oleum Transformation formulated especially for surfaces like quartz. Do not use regular acrylic paint.
Does the paint bond directly to quartz?
An adhesion promoter or primer must be applied first for the paint to properly adhere to the quartz.
How long does the painted finish last?
With proper prep and maintenance, painted quartz countertops can last 3-5 years before needing to be re-painted.
Can I paint over quartz scratches and chips?
Yes, paint provides an affordable way to hide chips, scratches, and other imperfections in quartz.
What colors can I paint my quartz?
Countertop paints come in many different colors, from light neutrals to vivid brights. Be sure to choose a hue you love since it cannot be easily changed.
Is it possible to remove the paint later?
Painting quartz is a permanent change. Removing paint would require sanding/grinding down the surface, which is not recommended.
Painting your worn or outdated quartz countertops allows you to revive them affordably. With the right steps and paint products, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting results. Use this comprehensive guide to help you through your quartz countertop painting project.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops can develop scratches, stains, and discoloration over time. Instead of expensive replacement, painting offers an affordable way to restore their appearance. With proper cleaning, sanding, primer, paint, optional sealer, and ongoing care, quartz countertops can be painted to look fresh, new, and completely revitalized. While not as seamless as new installed quartz, painted countertops provide a budget-friendly update that adds beauty and value to your kitchen or bath for years to come. Follow the detailed steps in this guide for best results painting your quartz countertops.