Yes, Laminate flooring can be painted over. Usually, experts recommend enamel paint for best results. Laminate is an inexpensive option to apply. On the contrary, ripping the entire floor and fixing it is not advisable. Contact Flooring and Refinishing Guru for an optimal paint job.
Painting laminate floors is not a safe option for residents and employees: The finished layer looks shabby and messy at times. Moreover, the paint doesn’t last long. And, it’s not a DIY process for sure!
Painting Laminate Floors
Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is necessary before painting laminate floors. Unlike wood, laminate is a smooth and non-porous surface that does not adhere to paint. Normally, experts use a deglosser for this purpose. To ensure a successful job, you need to clean the area from pet hair, debris, dirt and more.
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Cleaning
After removing the particulates from the surface, clean the floor with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. It will eliminate dirt, grease, or residue that could interfere with the adhesion process. Rinse the floor and let it dry completely.
Sanding
Sanding is essential for better adhesion. Use a fine-grit sandpaper (around 120-220 grit) to roughen the entire floor. Oversanding is not a preferable option for laminated surfaces because of low thickness. In addition, it can get damaged easily.
Primer
To enhance paint adhesion and ensure uniform application, use a high-quality primer. Cover the entire surface with single or multiple layers (as per the requirement). You can also repair minor imperfections, such as crevices during the process.
Choosing the Correct Paint Type
Selecting the right type of paint is mandatory. Water-based or oil-based floor paint or enamel or patio paint are viable options. These paints are designed to withstand foot traffic and provide a durable finish.
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Paint Application
Use a high-quality paint roller or brush to paint the laminate floor. Start with a thin coat and allow it to dry before applying more paint. Multiple coats are better than a single coat; they provide a uniform finish to the surface. After you’ve achieved the desired color and finish, it’s important to seal the surface with a polyurethane or acrylic sealer.
Maintenance
Painted laminate floors require periodic touch-ups, especially in high-traffic areas. Invest some time in maintenance to enhance the aesthetic value of your home. Laminate is a durable and low-maintenance material; painting can alter its characteristics. If the laminate flooring experiences wear and tear, the paint will chip or peel over time.
Factors that Affect Laminate Flooring
Warranty Implications
If your laminated floor is under warranty, don’t opt for painting because of further complications.
Long-Term Plans
Think about your long-term plans for the space. If you’re planning to replace the laminate flooring in the near future, it might not be worth the effort and expense.
Aesthetics
To achieve the desired look, paint the laminate surface. Sometimes, a well-chosen area rug or new furniture can achieve the same effect without the need for paint.
Bottom Line
Laminate flooring is a process that requires proper preparation, pertinent materials, and durable equipment. If done correctly, painted laminate floors can provide a fresh, updated look to your space. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your long-term plans for the area before deciding to paint your laminate flooring. Painted laminate floor can be a budget-friendly and aesthetically-pleasing solution for homeowners looking to breathe new life into their spaces.
If you want to opt for painting laminate floor, contact Flooring and Refinishing Guru.