Think Twice Before Using Paint To Update Quartz Countertops

The durability and beauty of quartz countertops have made them a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. However, you may not like the quartz in your home because of the color or pattern, or maybe it looks worn out. With the cost of quartz countertops ranging from an average of $60 to $80 per square foot and sometimes reaching as high as $200 per square foot for high-quality stone, replacing the counters could require thousands of dollars. So, what should you do if this route doesn't fit your budget? Though adding a layer or two of paint works in many cases, it's not the best choice for quartz. While it might give your countertops an updated look, it won't last long.

Polished quartz countertops don't hold paint well due to their smooth surface. The paint often slides off, making it challenging to get an even coat. You'll also struggle to sand the material, as it requires specific compounds and pads. Even with a finished coat of paint, you'll have to deal with its susceptibility to scratches, forcing you to remain cautious with sharp objects like knives and avoid sliding objects across the surface. Heat from hot pans can also ruin painted counters, making coasters and pan trivets a must. If not properly sealed, water can get under the paint, causing it to lift or producing bubbles. Based on these pitfalls, you should consider forgoing paint in your quest to breathe new life into your quartz countertops. Thankfully, you have other options.

If your quartz countertops have lost their shine, clean the stone to restore its luster. Using warm water and a neutral dishwasher detergent, wipe down the counters with a non-abrasive sponge. Are you struggling to remove stains or a hazy layer on the stone? Look for products made specifically for deep cleaning quartz. Once you've cleaned them, you can elect to resurface quartz counters to remove damages like chips and permanent stains. This process requires special skills and equipment, so you should leave it to the professionals. You can expect to invest between $5 and $25 per square foot to resurface quartz.

If you've set your sights on achieving a brand new look for your countertops, consider selling the old quartz and putting that money towards new materials. Other homeowners interested in renovating their houses will often buy used countertops. When going this route, ensure you provide accurate measurements, mention any imperfections, and where in the home they were located. While you probably won't get the price you bought it at, quartz counters in good condition can still fetch a pretty penny.

Consider using epoxy to transform quartz counters or cover up deep stains or damage. With the addition of dyes, you can also utilize epoxy to change the color of your countertops, even adding veining to make it appear more like stone. However, bear in mind that epoxy will be more susceptible to stains than the original quartz.

You can pick up epoxy kits at various price points. For example, the Stone Coat Epoxy Gallon Kits range from $69.99 to $474.99, depending on the size. Most savvy DIYers can apply an epoxy coat on their own, making it an attractive option to save money.

Typically, you must combine a resin and a hardener, pour the mix on your countertops, and spread it with a paintbrush. However, achieving a smooth finish requires careful application, and you won't get a second chance. Because epoxy starts drying soon after application, you will have little time to get it evened out or remove air bubbles. You'll also want to protect your cabinets and floors from dripping epoxy, as the process can get messy.