Laminate furniture has long been a popular choice for homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance. However, over time, it can begin to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated in style. For these reasons, many people choose to learn how to redo laminate furniture as a cost-effective way to give their furniture a fresh, modern update. Whether it’s a scratched table, an old cabinet, or a desk that no longer matches your décor, refinishing laminate furniture is a practical solution that can extend its lifespan and enhance its appearance.
The process of redoing laminate furniture is simple enough for any DIY enthusiast. It involves cleaning, sanding, priming, painting, and applying a protective finish—all of which can be accomplished with the right tools and techniques. With a little time and effort, laminate pieces can be transformed into stylish, rejuvenated furniture.
Tools and Materials Needed
Redoing laminate furniture requires the proper tools and materials to ensure a smooth, professional finish. Below is a list of essential tools and materials and why they are necessary for the process.
Tools
- Sandpaper (Medium And Fine Grit): Used to scuff the laminate surface for better primer and paint adhesion.
- Sanding Block or Electric Sander: This makes sanding easier and more consistent, especially on large or detailed surfaces.
- Painter’s Tape: Ensures clean lines by masking off areas you don’t want painted.
- Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheeting: Protects surrounding areas from paint drips and dust.
- Paintbrushes or Foam Rollers: Foam rollers are ideal for smooth finishes, while paintbrushes are useful for detailed work.
- Putty Knife: Helps apply wood filler effectively to repair cracks or imperfections.
Materials
- Primer (Bonding Primer For Laminate): Essential for creating a strong base that adheres to the slick surface of laminate.
- Paint (Latex or Spray Paint Designed For Laminate): Provides the desired color and finish for your furniture piece.
- Wood Filler: Necessary for filling holes, cracks, or dents to create a flawless surface before painting.
- Topcoat (Polyurethane or Laminate Sealer): Ensures a durable and long-lasting finish, protecting your work against wear and tear.
Each of these tools and materials is pivotal in achieving a successful laminate redo, from preparation to the final protective coating.
Preparing the Surface
Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful laminate furniture makeover. Taking the time to clean, sand, and repair the surface ensures the primer and paint will adhere effectively for a smooth, durable finish.
Cleaning the Furniture
Before doing anything else, thoroughly clean the furniture’s surface to remove dust, dirt, grease, and any other residues.
Even small particles can interfere with the adhesion of paint products. Use a cleaning solution such as mild soap and water or a dedicated degreaser to ensure the surface is spotless. Gently scrub the surface with a sponge or cloth, being mindful not to saturate the laminate with water. Once cleaned, dry the furniture completely before continuing.
Sanding the Laminate
Sanding is crucial to removing the glossy finish from the laminate, which can hinder the primer and paint adhesion. Use medium-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) to lightly rough up the surface, providing texture for the primer to grip. Afterward, follow up with fine-grit sandpaper (180-220 grit) to smooth out the surface. Sand evenly across the entire surface, but be careful not to press too hard, as excessive sanding can damage the laminate. Wipe away sanding dust with a damp cloth or tack cloth before moving on.
Filling Cracks and Dents
Inspect the furniture for any cracks, dents, or deep scratches, and use wood filler to repair these imperfections. Apply the filler using a putty knife, pressing it into the damaged areas to ensure a seamless fill. Allow the filler to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions fully, then sand it down with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth, flush surface. Repeat as needed for a perfect finish. Properly repaired surfaces will result in a flawless paint job.
How to Redo Laminate Furniture: Priming the Laminate
Choosing the Right Primer
Selecting a bonding primer specifically designed for non-porous surfaces is essential when painting laminate furniture. Bonding primers adhere to slick laminate finishes, providing a solid base for the paint. Without this step, the paint is prone to peeling, chipping, or uneven coverage over time.
A high-quality primer ensures long-lasting results and enhances the final appearance of your furniture.
Applying the Primer
Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a high-quality paintbrush or foam roller. Start with smooth, consistent strokes, covering the surface entirely without leaving drips or streaks. Work methodically, section by section, to ensure complete coverage. Avoid applying too much primer at once, resulting in uneven layers. After application, allow the primer to dry completely. Drying times vary depending on the product, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended time frame before proceeding to the next step.
Sanding After Priming
Once thoroughly dry the primer, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit is ideal). This step smooths out any imperfections in the primer and creates a flawless base for the paint. After sanding, wipe down the surface with a tack cloth or damp cloth to remove any residual dust. A clean, primed surface is crucial for achieving professional-looking results when applying the final coat of paint.
How to Redo Laminate Furniture Painting the Laminate Furniture
Choosing the Right Paint
Selecting the right paint is critical to achieving a durable and visually appealing result on laminate furniture. Acrylic latex paint is a versatile and reliable option, as it adheres well to properly primed surfaces and offers excellent durability. Chalk paint is another popular choice due to its smooth, matte finish and ability to create a vintage or distressed look with ease. For those seeking a sleek, flawless surface, spray paint is an excellent option, particularly for smaller or uniquely shaped furniture. Spray paint delivers a smooth, even coat without brush marks and covers tricky areas like crevices or curved edges effectively. Always check that the paint is specifically formulated for use on laminate to ensure optimal adherence.
Applying the Paint
Begin by applying the first coat of paint evenly with a quality paintbrush, foam roller, or spray can, depending on the desired finish. Use smooth, consistent strokes to avoid streaks and maintain a uniform appearance. Work in thin layers, as applying too much paint at once can lead to drips or a lumpy texture.
When painting edges and corners, use a smaller brush for precision and to prevent bleeding or buildup. Patience is key—take your time to ensure the entire surface is covered evenly.
Drying and Additional Coats
Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommended drying time; rushing this process can compromise the finish. Generally, two or more coats of paint are required to achieve full, consistent coverage. For the best results, lightly sand the surface between coats with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220 grit) to improve adhesion and create a smooth base for the subsequent layers. Be sure to wipe away all dust after sanding. By layering the paint carefully, you’ll achieve a professional-looking, long-lasting finish.
Finishing the Laminate Furniture
Applying a Topcoat
Protecting the newly painted surface with a clear topcoat is essential for ensuring durability and maintaining the finish over time. A topcoat, such as polyurethane or a furniture-grade sealer, protects against scratches, stains, and daily wear and tear. You can choose matte, satin, or gloss finishes depending on the desired look. Matte offers a subtle, non-reflective appearance, while satin provides a slight sheen, and gloss creates a shiny, polished effect.
Applying the Topcoat
To apply the topcoat, use a foam brush or roller to achieve a thin, even layer. Start with smooth, consistent strokes, being careful not to overload the brush or roller to avoid drips. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on drying time between coats to ensure proper adhesion and prevent smudging. Typically, this process requires patience to create a flawless finish.
Sanding Between Coats
For optimal results, lightly sand each layer of the topcoat with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220 grit) once it has dried. This step helps smooth out imperfections and improve adhesion for the next layer. Be sure to thoroughly wipe away any dust using a soft, lint-free cloth before applying subsequent coats. Multiple thin layers of topcoat generally produce a more even and professional appearance.
Allowing the Finish to Cure
Once the final coat of topcoat has been applied, it’s crucial to allow sufficient curing time. While the surface may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, full curing typically takes 24-48 hours. During this time, avoid placing any objects on the furniture or applying pressure to ensure the finish sets completely. Proper curing ensures long-lasting protection and a beautiful, durable finish for your newly transformed laminate furniture.
Tips for Maintaining Laminate Furniture After Redoing
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your newly redone laminate furniture looking its best. Use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of mild soap and water to wipe down the surface, removing dirt and grime without risking damage to the finish. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can harm the protective topcoat or paint.
Avoiding Heavy Scratching
Protect the surface from scratches or scuffs by using coasters, placemats, and soft pads under items like glassware, plates, or decor. When moving heavy objects on or near your furniture, always lift them instead of dragging them to prevent gouging or damage. Additionally, adding protective pads to the base of furniture or smaller objects resting on the surface can further minimize the risk of scratches.
Touching Up
Over time, chips or scratches may occasionally occur. Spot-repairing these imperfections promptly helps maintain the appearance and integrity of your furniture. To handle small repairs, lightly sand the damaged area, then apply a matching paint or topcoat color with a fine brush. Blend carefully into the surrounding finish, allowing the repair to dry fully before using the surface again. These touch-ups ensure your piece stays polished and beautiful for years to come.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Sanding Step
One of the most common mistakes in refinishing laminate is neglecting to sand the surface properly. Sanding is crucial because it roughens up the smooth, glossy surface of laminate, giving the paint something to adhere to.
Without this step, paint is more likely to chip or peel over time, leading to unsightly and short-lived results. Always use fine-grit sandpaper to ensure even and thorough sanding, avoiding any patches of untouched laminate that could weaken the finish.
Using the Wrong Type of Paint or Primer
Another frequent error is choosing the wrong type of paint or primer for laminate surfaces. Standard wall paints or primers often don’t bond well with laminate, which is a non-porous material. Opting for a bonding primer specifically designed for laminate and durable acrylic or enamel-based paints ensures a smooth and long-lasting finish. Skimping on the proper materials can lead to difficulty in achieving a uniform look and increased susceptibility to damage.
Rushing the Process
Patience is key when painting laminate furniture. Rushing through the process, particularly by not allowing adequate drying time between coats, often results in streaking, bubbling, or uneven coverage. Each layer—be it primer, paint, or topcoat—should dry completely before the next is applied. Proper drying times guarantee a professional, polished appearance.
Neglecting to Apply a Topcoat
Failing to seal your work with a protective topcoat is a critical mistake that can dramatically reduce the lifespan of your refreshed laminate piece. The topcoat generates a shield against scratches, stains, and daily wear and tear. High-quality polyurethane or polycrylic topcoats provide the durability and luster that preserve your furniture’s finish for years to come. Never skip this final step if you want lasting results.
Conclusion
Redoing laminate furniture is a rewarding DIY project that involves several key steps: cleaning, sanding, priming, painting, and finishing. By following these steps carefully, you can transform outdated pieces into stylish, modern décor while saving money. Taking your time ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish, allowing your hard work to shine. Remember, learning how to redo laminate furniture refreshes your space and sparks creativity. Enjoy the process and take pride in crafting a renewed piece that reflects your personal style. Your effort will result in beautiful, durable furniture you’ll cherish for years to come.
