Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom can be costly, and one of the major expenses is often replacing the countertops. However, several cost-effective ways to refinish a countertop can give your space a fresh new look without draining your wallet. The cheapest option for refinishing countertops is painting. Other inexpensive options include staining, applying contact paper or adhesive film, using a concrete overlay, installing a countertop overlay, tile painting, resurfacing with epoxy, and laminating.
This chart shows the cheapest products for refinishing a countertop.
| Refinishing Option | Price Rangee |
| Contact Paper | $20 – $50 |
| Laminate Sheets | $50 – $100 |
| Paint | $50 – $100 |
| Sanding and Re-staining | $50 – $100 |
| Resurfacing Kits | $100 – $200 |
| Concrete Overlay | $150 – $250 |
| Epoxy | $150 – $300 |
| Tile | $200 – $500 |
This chart is an estimate based on current prices when this article was published.*
Each option offers a unique look but provides a cost-effective way to give your countertops a new look. Depending on the method you choose, there are various pros and cons to each one, but they all tend to be less expensive than completely replacing your countertops.
It’s important to consider your budget when deciding which method to use. Additionally, the current condition of your countertops will also impact the type of method you choose. If your countertops are in poor condition, consider a more extensive renovation, such as replacing them entirely.
Lastly, the style you want to achieve is another crucial factor. Each method will provide a different aesthetic, so you’ll want to choose a plan that aligns with your vision for your kitchen or bathroom.
Let’s examine the eight affordable countertop refinishing options and their respective price ranges. Additionally, we’ll provide a helpful list of everyday items you might need for any of the eight refinishing options.
1. Paint
Painting is the most affordable way to refinish a countertop. You can achieve a smooth, durable, and long-lasting finish with suitable materials. You need sandpaper, primer, paint, and sealer to paint your countertop. The cost of these materials varies depending on the size of your countertop, but it is still the cheapest option. Consulting with a professional painter and/or paint store would be useful in choosing a primer and product that will give you the best results. Certain paints may level out better than others. It’s also very important to know what chemical properties are in the paint as this will most likely be an area where food is being prepared.
2. Contact paper
Another affordable way to refinish your countertop is by using contact paper. Contact paper is a thin, self-adhesive vinyl sheet that can be easily applied to your countertop to give your countertop a new look. In addition, it’s easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms. Preparing the surface will be crucial as different vinyl manufacturers will use different methods of installation. Follow the instructions and use the recommended products for a successful installation of the contact paper.
3. Epoxy
Epoxy is a durable and long-lasting coating that can refinish countertops. It comprises two parts: resin and hardener, mixed to create a tough and glossy surface. While epoxy is more expensive than paint or contact paper, it is still a relatively affordable option. It is also resistant to stains, scratches, and heat, making it an ideal choice for busy kitchens. The popularity of epoxy is growing by leaps and bounds. The kits are easy to use and come in white, black, earth tones, natural blues, and many exotic stones that will mimic the look of granite, marble and silestone. Most epoxy products will have a return to service time of 48 hours. The epoxy will usually continue to cure for the next 30 days to reach its full hardness.
4. Tile
If you want a more permanent solution, consider tiling your countertop. While tiling is more expensive than other refinishing options, it can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing your countertop altogether. Additionally, tiles come in various colors, patterns, and materials, making it easy to find a design that suits your style. It’s always a good idea to use tighter joints when installing countertop tile. This way you will minimize the grout lines, saving you time cleaning and sealing in the future.
5. Concrete Overlay
A concrete overlay is a relatively cheap way to resurface your countertop. It involves applying a thin layer of concrete over the existing countertop, which is then stained and sealed to create a beautiful and durable finish. Concrete overlays are a great choice if you’re looking for a modern, industrial look.
6. Resurfacing Kits
Countertop resurfacing kits are an all-in-one solution that includes everything you need to refinish your countertop. They typically have a primer, paint, and sealer and are available in various colors and finishes. Resurfacing kits are affordable and easy to use, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.
7. Laminate Sheets
Laminate sheets are a cost-effective way to refinish a countertop. They come in various colors and patterns and are easily cut to fit your countertop. Laminate sheets are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for busy kitchens.
8. Sanding and Re-staining
If you have a wooden countertop that has seen better days, sanding and re-staining can give it a new lease of life. Sanding will remove any stains, scratches, or imperfections, while re-staining will give the wood a fresh look. Sanding and re-staining can be time-consuming, but it is a cheap and effective way to refinish a wooden countertop. While this is a great technique it’s crucial to test an area with the new stain color you desire. This way you can be sure that it will look that way you intended. Stain will vary from samples due to wood specie, age of wood, and also in regard to how hard the surface was sanded during preparation. Be careful not to sand so much that you close the pores of the wood so much that it doesn’t take on the full properties of the stain.
Get Started on Countertop Refinishing: Essential Tools and Materials
Although each of these refinishing options requires specific tools and materials, here is a list of everyday items you will need for any of the eight countertop refinishing options:
- Sandpaper (varying grits depending on the option)
- Cleaning supplies (such as soap, water, and a scrub brush)
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect your work area
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Measuring tape and a straight edge
- Utility knife or scissors for cutting materials like contact paper or laminate sheets
- Paint brushes or rollers (depending on the option)
- Primer (if necessary for the option you choose)
- Sealer (if necessary for the option you choose)
Again, remember that the specific materials and tools you need may vary depending on which of the eight refinishing options you choose. However, this list should give you a good starting point for assembling your supplies.
Refinishing countertops can be an affordable way to give your kitchen or bathroom a new look without replacing the entire countertop. There are eight options to choose from, ranging in price from $20 to $500: painting, contact paper, epoxy, tile, concrete overlay, resurfacing kits, laminate sheets, and sanding and re-staining. Each option offers a unique look, and it is essential to consider your budget, the current condition of your countertops, and the style you want to achieve before choosing a method.
