How to Redo Kitchen Countertops? TOP-5 Renovation Ideas
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Best Ways to Renovate Kitchen Countertops Without Replacing Them
Are you looking for ideas and inspiration to upgrade your kitchen look on a budget? Consider updating the countertops.
We understand it is not an easy decision to choose a material for the kitchen countertop. You have to consider cost, maintenance, functions, and aesthetic impact. A well-chosen countertop makes your kitchen more practical and beautiful. But some materials can take a significant part of the kitchen remodeling budget.
So, if your budget is tight but you still want to bring a new feeling to your space, there are other options. In this post, we gathered TOP-5 ideas on kitchen countertop renovation without replacing with small financial and time investments.
#1. COUNTERTOPS REFINISHING WITH INTERIOR FILM
It is a fairly new option on the North American market to redo kitchen countertops with interior film. But it has been a popular choice in Asia and Europe for years. So, let’s dive deeper into this option.
How to redo kitchen countertops with decorative vinyl?
Decorative vinyl is a perfect choice to redo the kitchen countertop without replacing it. It is fast and easy and produces no noise, dust, or odors. If you are looking for a quick and budget-friendly way to renovate countertops, you found it.
In the case of refinishing with the film, you cover old surfaces with new material. The only requirement is for the surface to be smooth and clean. Also, no water damage or warps should be present. The following are the steps of the film application:
- Create a smooth surface with putty and light sanding.
- Prime the surface where you need better adhesion, like corners and edges. Primer application requirements vary depending on the surface. For detailed instructions, contact Bodaq technical department.
- Measure and cut the material.
- Peel and stick the film to the surface.
- Adhere the film using a squeegee from top to bottom in a fan-shaped sweeping motion.
And the countertop is ready. Its refinishing takes merely a few hours. Moreover, the vinyl film replicates its original texture (whether it is wood, metal, or anything else); that is why refinished countertops will be as pleasant as natural ones. On top of that, we guarantee that countertops will preserve their looks for 10+ years.
#2. DIY CONCRETE COUNTERTOP
This Old House offered a great countertops reno idea – pour concrete on it. Concrete is very customizable – you can change color, stain, texture, and even shape.
It is also relatively easy to DIY. You will need a mold for the future countertop and a frame to support it. Make a sturdy support because concrete is heavy, after all. Then mix, pour, wait till it is dry, then sand, finish, and install. Or skip the installation part if you poured off concrete right on top of the existing counter (as shown in the video below).
#3. PAINT A MARBLE EFFECT ON YOUR COUNTERTOP
If your budget does not include new counters, we found one more option – a makeover with paint. But not just regular plain paint color. There is a new fun way to paint your countertops to look like marble.
As an example of the painted marble countertop makeover, we will show you a project by Diane from In My Own Style. She managed to create the faux Carrara marble counter with acrylic paints. For step-by-step instructions, please check the blog post.
How to Create Faux Marble: A Quick Guide
In a nutshell, the process looks like this:
- Surface preparation, including sanding, priming, and covering the surface with white paint.
- Only then start creating veins using craft paints. Diane advises using a small piece of wood to practice veining before doing that on the counter.
- Whitewash the surface before sealing to soften the veins.
- Then seal your faux marble.
And you will need a variety of supplies, like primer, eggshell or satin finish white paint, three colors of gray craft paint, foam roller and a roller tray, feather, sea sponge, soft paintbrush, paper towels, a toothbrush, small mixing bowls, sandpaper, paste wax or a water based polyurethane for the topcoat, etc.
You can also purchase a paint kit to update the look of your countertops. You might have seen one of those used by YouTube or TikTok bloggers.
If painting faux marble seems too daunting, you could always opt for a marble interior film like this.
#4. FAUX TERRAZZO COUNTERTOPS
Terrazzo countertops are durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and chips, making them a great option for high-traffic areas. Additionally, it is resistant to bacteria and easy to clean. It makes it a practical choice for kitchens, where hygiene is a top priority.
Christine & Jan from Little House on The Corner created a tabletop (which might as well have been a countertop) that imitates terrazzo with the help of resin and different colors of modeling clay. The result is impressive: dealing with rubber is not an easy job. This DIY project turned out great.
Photo credit: Little House on the Corner.
You might want to spruce your space up with terrazzo on your own and props to every DIY-er for that. Still, it is much easier to just wrap it.
#5. UPDATE COUNTERTOPS WITH TILES
Photo credit: Family Handyman
One more inexpensive option for the kitchen countertop renovation without replacing is to install some tile. Tile countertops bring a specific vibe to the room, so if you are aiming for a farm-style and rustic kitchen, this option is for you. However, it is a pretty complicated do-it-yourself project. To make it a little easier, use a tile membrane on top of the existing surface before laying down your tiles.
Step-by-step instructions are available on the Family Handyman detailed how-to post on a tile countertop, which includes everything from plywood counters to laying down mortar and trimming the tiles.
Conclusion
These are the top-5 ideas for the kitchen countertop renovation without replacing. We tried to analyze information about each way and bring it to you. However, it is up to you to choose the best way to redo countertops at your place. We hope you found inspiration in these stunning surfaces — timeless, trendy, or DIY-able!
FAQ: Kitchen Countertop Renovation Without Replacing?
- How do you redo a countertop without replacing it?
There are many options available on the modern market - wrap it with the interior film, DIY concrete one, paint it to look like marble, tile it, imitate terrazzo surface, etc.
- What is the cheapest way to redo kitchen countertops?
There are a few cheap ways to redo kitchen countertops. For example, you can paint them, cover them with contact paper, or sand them and stain them with a wood finish. These options are suitable for wood, linoleum, or laminate countertops.
- How much does it cost to upgrade countertops?
The cost depends on the type of upgrade you will opt for. On average, homeowners spend between $12,800 and $21,200, with $16,600 or $150 per square foot with traditional materials; and between $390 and $1700, with $9-12 per square foot with architectural vinyl films.
- Is it worth replacing the kitchen countertops?
The answer depends on your budget. If you are willing to spend a lot, definitely yes. If you are looking for a cost-efficient solution, you should go for countertop refinishing. The benefits of upgrading kitchen countertops include kitchen appearance and functionality improvement, which lead to the home price increase.
- How can I cover my countertop without replacing it?
One effective way to cover your countertop without replacing it is by using Bodaq Interior Film. This versatile and durable film can be applied directly over your existing countertops, giving them a fresh, new look without the hassle and expense of a full replacement.
- What is the easiest way to redo kitchen countertops?
The easiest way to redo kitchen countertops is by using adhesive films like Bodaq Interior Film. These films are easy to apply, come in a variety of styles and finishes, and can be installed without the need for professional help. Simply clean the surface, measure and cut the film, and apply it smoothly for an instant transformation.
- Can I replace kitchen countertops without replacing cabinets?
Yes, you can replace kitchen countertops without replacing cabinets. This is often done by removing the old countertop and installing a new one while keeping the existing cabinets in place. However, if you want a simpler solution, you can use Bodaq Interior Film to refresh the look of your countertops without any need for removal or replacement.
- How can I update kitchen worktops cheaply?
Updating kitchen worktops cheaply can be achieved by using materials like Bodaq Interior Film. This cost-effective solution allows you to revamp your countertops with minimal expense. Bodaq Interior Film offers a wide range of styles and finishes, enabling you to achieve a high-end look without the high-end cost.
