Considering 'refinishingh' two 8 foot 33 year old formica/arborite surfaced kitchen counter-tops using melamine paint. One counter contains a ss double sink. Any advice/warnings/precautions, success or lack thereof would be most welcome. Regards to all. Terry.
For a worktop, I don't think that this is going to give a good result in terms of wear resistance, Terry.
I've used a melamine paint on a vertical surface and it will tolerate being rubbed for cleaning with no real problem. The important thing is to abrade the surface with a sander and then clean thoroughly.
However, for a worksurface there is more mechanical activity in terms of things being slid around etc. and I think you will find that it will mark and show dings fairly quickly.
I think that you would be much better off getting some laminate, again abrade the surface, stick with a contact adhesive. You could then trim with a router and finish the edges with hardwood or something of that nature or even more laminate.
.andy
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Don't do it - melamine paint is ok for kitchen unit doors etc, but not for worktops.
I'd seriously consider replacement. Worktops are really cheap, and not very difficult to fit. New worktops can make a huge difference to the look of a kitchen.
Incidentally, if you do use melamine paint, I can recommend the International range, I've had good results with that.
I've done it with reasonable success in light duty areas .. it will chip and scratch easily. Melamine paint really is intended for cabinets, not work surfaces.
I'd suggest either you build a new counter top ... or re-surface the old one. Rough up the old countertop, then screw and glue 1/4 inch ply, then apply new laminate -- either self edge or hardwood reveal.
Applying new laminate directly over old can risk lifting.
Ken
Much appreciate the replies/advice which tend to confirm concerns about using melamine on a 'work' surface. But, having seen it on TV it was an idea that came to mind when contemplating our well used kitchen. The solution will probably be to install new counter tops since the existing ones have contoured edge and back splash and it would be difficult to cut or router to apply a new surface over them. The counters are two straightforward 8 foot lengths, no 90 degree corners and no ends to worry about because all abut appliances or walls! Also only one sink cut out. So having managed it when we originally built the house 33 years ago we'll do it again. Salutations and thanks. Terry.
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