If your kitchen countertop is looking outdated, painting it can be a cost-effective way to refresh the space without replacing it. You can achieve the color and style you want while avoiding the high expense of a brand-new countertop. But how durable is a painted countertop? Can you really paint marble? What types of paint work best? And how do you properly seal your countertop to protect the finish? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about painting and sealing marble countertops for a long-lasting, beautiful result.
Can You Paint Marble Countertops?
At first, painting a marble countertop might seem unusual. However, many people have successfully painted their marble counters and used them for years without major issues.
It’s completely normal to have concerns—can you place hot pots on it? Can you use a knife directly on the surface? Will cleaning chemicals damage the paint?
The good news is, painting marble isn’t new. With the right preparation and materials, you can paint your countertop to match your kitchen decor and extend its life.
Is Painting Countertops a Good Idea?
If a full countertop replacement feels too costly, giving it a fresh coat of paint can be a budget-friendly solution. When done properly, a painted countertop can last for years and look professionally finished. It’s one of the most affordable ways to refresh your kitchen.
What Kind of Paint Should You Use on Marble?
You can paint marble countertops using chalk paint, acrylic paint, or epoxy paint. These types of paint adhere well to various surfaces and offer strong durability. “Related article: Can acrylic paint be used on marble?”
However, sealing the surface after painting is essential. Without proper sealing, moisture, heat, and cleaning products can damage the paint or cause it to peel.
How to Paint Marble Countertops (Step-by-Step)
1. Prep the Surface
Marble has a smooth, non-porous surface that makes it harder for paint to adhere properly. To prepare it, you should lightly sand the countertop using fine-grit sandpaper to create a bit of texture. Once you’ve sanded the marble countertop, make sure to remove all dust by wiping it down with a clean, slightly damp cloth to create an even surface for painting. To improve paint adhesion, applying a bonding primer after sanding is highly recommended. Combining both sanding and priming steps will ensure the best and longest-lasting finish on your marble countertops. “Related post: What is primer paint?”
2. Apply Primer
Make sure to pick a primer that works well with the kind of paint you’re planning to apply. If you’re using chalk or acrylic paint, a water-based or acrylic primer works best. For epoxy paint, you should use a two-part epoxy primer for maximum bonding. After applying the primer, let it dry completely. This usually takes about four to five hours, depending on the product and room conditions. The primer must be fully dry before you move on to painting. You can read this article to find out how much primer you need.
3. Apply Paint
Once your marble countertop is properly primed and fully dry, you can begin applying the paint. For chalk or acrylic paint, use a soft-bristle brush or a short-nap roller to get an even finish. If you’re using epoxy paint, a high-quality short-nap roller specifically made for epoxy is ideal. For the best results, apply two thin coats of paint on your marble countertop. Be sure to allow at least five hours of drying time between each coat to avoid streaking or peeling.
How to Seal Painted Marble Countertops
Applying a proper sealer to your painted countertop helps shield it from heat, spills, and everyday use. If you used chalk or acrylic paint, you should apply a water-based polyurethane or acrylic sealer. These sealers provide a durable, clear finish that protects the paint without yellowing over time. On the other hand, if you used epoxy paint, finish with a compatible epoxy clear coat for the strongest protection. After sealing, allow the countertop to dry for at least 24 hours before use. For full durability, wait five to seven days before placing heavy objects or using it for cooking.
What You’ll Need
To complete this project, you’ll need a few essential supplies. Begin by lightly sanding your marble countertop with fine-grit sandpaper (220–320 grit) to help the paint adhere. Use a tack cloth to thoroughly remove dust from the surface of your marble countertops before painting. Select the appropriate primer—water-based or acrylic for chalk and acrylic paint, or epoxy primer for epoxy paint. Choose your paint type, and use either a paintbrush or a short-nap roller for application. Don’t forget a topcoat or sealer to protect the finish. Painter’s tape can help protect edges and surrounding surfaces, and gloves and a mask will keep you safe during the process.
