Yes, you can absolutely resurface Formica and laminate countertops, saving thousands compared to a full replacement. You can either use a DIY countertop painting or epoxy kit, apply a concrete overlay, or hire a professional to spray it with a specialized acrylic enamel.
Updating Formica (laminate) countertops without replacing them is a highly achievable DIY project. For a quick, affordable, and durable transformation, you can paint them using a specialized kit, apply contact paper, skim-coat them with concrete, or cover them with peel-and-stick vinyl tiles.
You can easily cover outdated Formica (laminate) countertops to give them a brand new look without the expense of a full replacement. The three most popular DIY methods include painting them, applying an epoxy pour, or using peel-and-stick vinyl wraps.
Pros and Cons of Painting Formica
Cost effective — $50 to $150 versus $1,500 or more for replacement. Quick transformation achievable in one weekend.
Three steps for the everyday care and maintenance of Formica® products.
Before you start looking for a new countertop, try polishing your old Formica one to restore its original look. Be careful, though. Using the wrong method or material can do more harm than good. Clean the Formica with a neutral cleanser, such as water and a mild detergent.
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
An epoxy-based paint is the best paint to use when painting Formica for assuring adhesion. polyurethane paint is second-best to epoxy. While any type of paint can be used, all have varying degrees of adhesion qualities, along with other plusses and minuses.
Updating laminate countertops on a budget is highly achievable. For under $200, you can drastically transform your space using specialized refinishing kits, durable paints, or peel-and-stick vinyl contact paper. These DIY-friendly methods require excellent surface prep to ensure lasting results.
Yes, they are essentially the same thing. Laminate is the general name of the material, while Formica is simply the most well-known brand that manufactures it. All Formica is laminate, but not all laminate is Formica.
This simple DIY trick works especially well for renters or anyone on a budget. By adding peel and stick backsplash over laminate, quartz, granite, soapstone, or any countertop surface, you can quickly create a clean, stylish look.
Key Takeaways. Peel-and-stick countertops offer a budget-friendly, temporary solution for renters or low-traffic areas, helping refresh outdated surfaces without making permanent changes. They're easy to apply and remove, but quality varies—thicker options conceal imperfections better and hold up longer.
Yes, you can put new Formica (laminate) over old Formica, but the old surface must be completely secure, scuffed up for adhesion, and thoroughly cleaned before applying. If the existing laminate is peeling or bubbling, you must remove it entirely rather than laying new material over it.
Ceramic tile, laminate, and wood overlays are the most durable covers. Liquid coatings like spray paint and films like contact paper will tear and become scratched. Countertop resurfacing kits are a good compromise for many: longer-lasting and tougher than paint while easier to apply than laminate or skim concrete.
Yes, peel-and-stick countertop vinyl wraps work, but they are generally best suited as a, short-term, budget-friendly (1–5 years) solution for low-traffic areas rather than a permanent replacement. They are ideal for renters or homeowners looking to quickly update surfaces like laminate or wood in kitchens and bathrooms with heat-resistant, waterproof vinyl.
Updating Formica (laminate) countertops without replacing them is a highly achievable DIY project. For a quick, affordable, and durable transformation, you can paint them using a specialized kit, apply contact paper, skim-coat them with concrete, or cover them with peel-and-stick vinyl tiles.
Replacing laminate countertops typically costs between $20 and $80 per square foot fully installed. For an average-sized kitchen (about 30 to 40 sq. ft.), expect a total project cost ranging from $720 to $2,880, depending on the material grade, edging options, and your local labor rates.
Miracle Method has been refinishing countertops, bathtubs, and tile for nearly 30 years and has thousands of satisfied customers. Today we offer more durable coatings, more fashionable colors, and our revolutionary Natural Accents stone finishes.
Luckily, many paints work well on Formica countertops. Epoxy, acrylic and chalk paint are good choices, especially with a good primer. Oil-based paints also provide excellent adhesion and durability. Look for paints designed to adhere to multiple surface types.
Tip: We recommend using latex paint when painting laminate furniture because of its durability and smooth finish.
Yes, many types of countertops, including laminate, wood and ceramic tile are suitable for painting or resurfacing as long as you use the right materials and technique. To get the best results, follow the painting instructions for your refinishing product, be patient and work carefully.
A kitchen is typically considered outdated when it suffers from a combination of failing appliances, poor lighting, worn-out surfaces, and an isolating, disjointed layout. Trends evolve, and what was once fashionable can make the entire heart of the home feel less functional and visually unappealing.
Dark floors pair particularly well with lighter countertops in large kitchens, where there is enough natural light to prevent the space from feeling heavy. Charcoal tiles, dark-stained engineered wood, or concrete-effect porcelain are often used to create a strong architectural base.
The hottest countertop trends are a shift toward warm, creamy, and natural color palettes, replacing glossy finishes with matte, honed, or leathered textures. For materials, Quartzite and natural stone are surging in popularity as homeowners pivot toward authentic, unique materials.