Are you tired of looking at your worn and outdated kitchen countertops but don’t have the budget to replace them entirely? There are plenty of cost-effective and creative ways to redo a countertop without replacing it. The most common ways to renovate a countertop without replacing it are to use one of the following materials and techniques; contact paper, peel-and-stick tiles,, granite countertop film, painting, resurfacing, laminate sheets, refinishing, tile and resealing granite or marble.
Many homeowners face this tight budget problem and feel like they are stuck with their old, unattractive countertops. Each of these options however, can give your countertops a fresh new look without having to replace them entirely. The chart below can help you decide which material and technique are right for your project.
| Material | Price Range (USD) | Typical Duration |
| Contact paper | $5 – $20 per roll | 1-2 hours |
| Peel-and-stick tiles | $20 – $50 per box | 1-2 days |
| Granite countertop film | $25 – $50 per roll | 1-2 hours |
| Painting | $50 – $150 for paint and supplies | 1-2 days |
| Resurfacing | $200 – $500 for materials and supplies | 1-2 days |
| Laminate sheets | $200 – $500 for materials and supplies | 1-2 days |
| Refinishing | $300 – $700 for materials and supplies | 1-2 days |
| Tile | $500 – $1500 for materials and supplies | 1-3 days |
| Reseal granite or marble | $20 – $50 for sealant | 1-2 hours |
These prices and the the time are estimates only and will vary based on the size of your project, your skill level, and your local and regional prices.*
Contact paper: Contact paper is a quick and easy way to give your countertop a temporary new look. This self-adhesive vinyl can be cut to size and applied to the surface. It comes in a variety of patterns and colors and can be easily removed if you decide you want to go back to the original countertop.
Peel-and-stick tiles: Another budget-friendly option to update your countertop is peel-and-stick tiles. These are adhesive tiles that can be easily applied to your existing countertop surface. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose a style that suits your taste. The time required to complete this project will depend on the size of your countertop and the complexity of the tile pattern. Peel-and-stick tiles are a great DIY project and can be completed over a weekend.
Granite countertop film: Granite countertop film is a budget-friendly alternative to installing a new granite countertop. It is a thin self-adhesive film that can be easily applied over your existing countertop, giving it the look of real granite. The film is designed to mimic the natural veining and texture of granite, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns to suit your taste. Applying the film is a simple process that can be done without professional help, making it a great DIY option. It is also removable, so you can easily switch up the look of your countertop whenever you want
Painting: Painting your countertops is one of the most cost-effective ways to give them a fresh new look. There are special countertop paints available that are designed to adhere to the surface and provide a durable finish. The time required to complete this project will depend on the size of your countertop and the number of coats of paint required. It is important to thoroughly clean the countertop and sand it lightly before painting to ensure good adhesion. Painting your countertop is a great DIY project and can be completed over a weekend.
Resurfacing: Resurfacing your countertop involves applying a thin layer of a special coating to the existing countertop surface. This can be done using materials like epoxy or acrylic, and it can create a durable, glossy finish.
Laminate sheets: If you have a laminate countertop that is in good condition but you want to update the look, consider using laminate sheets. These are thin sheets of laminate that can be glued onto your existing countertop surface. Laminate sheets come in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose a look that complements your kitchen decor. The time required to complete this project will depend on the size of your countertop and the number of sheets required. Using laminate sheets is a great way to update your countertop without having to replace it entirely.
Refinishing: Refinishing your countertop involves applying a new layer of material on top of the existing surface, such as a thin layer of concrete or a laminate sheet. This process is more involved than painting, but it can create a durable, high-quality finish that will last for years. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for best results. The time required to complete this project will depend on the type of material you choose and the size of your countertop. Refinishing your countertop is a great way to update its look without spending a lot of money.
Tile: Covering your countertop with tile can give it a unique and stylish look. However, this process is more involved than painting or refinishing, as it requires laying the tile and grouting it. The time required to complete this project will depend on the size of your countertop and the complexity of the tile pattern. If you are not comfortable with laying tile, it is best to hire a professional to complete this project.
Reseal granite or marble: If you have a natural stone countertop like granite or marble, you can simply reseal it to restore its shine and protect it from stains. This involves cleaning the countertop thoroughly and then applying a sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to use a high-quality sealant that is appropriate for your specific type of countertop.
When you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to update your kitchen countertops, there are plenty of options available. From contact paper and peel-and-stick tiles to painting, resurfacing, and refinishing, each of these methods offers a unique way to give your countertops a fresh new look without having to replace them entirely.
It’s important to keep in mind that each method has its own pros and cons, and not all of them will be suitable for every countertop material. It’s also essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to achieve the best results.
By choosing one of these cost-effective and creative ways to redo your countertops, you can transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. With a little bit of time and effort, you can achieve a beautiful new look.
