Quartz countertops are an incredibly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz counters are highly durable, low maintenance, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. However, some homeowners may wish to change the look of their quartz countertops by painting them. So, can you paint quartz countertops?
What is Quartz?
Before discussing painting quartz, it’s helpful to understand exactly what quartz countertops are made of.
Quartz is a natural stone mineral, composed of silicon and oxygen atoms. It is one of the hardest minerals found in nature, just behind diamonds on the Mohs hardness scale.
To create an engineered quartz slab, quartz crystals are ground into a fine powder. That powder is then combined with pigments for color and resin as a binder. The mixture is poured into molds and allowed to harden.
The result is a non-porous, highly durable surface that resists scratches, stains, heat damage, and more. Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
The Challenges of Painting Quartz
The ultra-hard, non-porous nature of quartz makes it extremely difficult to paint. Unlike more porous natural stones, quartz will not absorb paint easily.
Here are some of the challenges faced when painting quartz:
- Poor paint adhesion – Most paints will struggle to properly adhere to the slick quartz surface. Without proper prep, paint will simply peel or chip off.
- Visible seams – Any seams between quartz slabs will likely remain visible even after painting, ruining the look.
- Stubborn stains – You cannot simply paint over stains on quartz. Stains must be sanded out or otherwise removed prior to painting.
- Loss of texture – Much of the natural pattern and texture of quartz will be lost under opaque paint. The surface may look flat and dull.
- Prone to damage – Painted quartz will be more prone to showing scratches, chips, and general wear and tear. The paint coat is less durable.
Proper prep work and using the right products can help overcome some of these challenges. But painting quartz countertops is still often more trouble than it’s worth.
Is It Possible to Successfully Paint Quartz?
While quite difficult, it is possible to paint quartz counters if done correctly. Here are some tips to achieve the best results:
- Use bonding primer – A high-quality bonding primer designed for slick surfaces will help the paint stick to quartz.
- Sand the surface – Lightly sanding quartz gives the paint something to grip onto. Be careful not to damage the surface.
- Apply thin coats – Multiple thin coats of paint layered on top of primer will adhere better than thick coats.
- Use cabinet/furniture paint – These heavy duty paints are formulated for hard surfaces like quartz. Latex wall paints may not adhere well.
- Caulk seams – Any seams need to be cleaned out and caulked to prevent visibility after painting.
- Consider local spraying – Carefully spraying problem areas can help paint adhere in hard to reach grooves or textures.
- Use quartz paint – There are specially formulated paint products for quartz surfaces that provide maximum adhesion.
- Protect the paint – Applying a clear sealer on top of the paint helps protect it from damage.
With meticulous prep and application, it is possible to successfully paint quartz and achieve an updated look. But expect the process to be labor intensive.
Should You Paint Your Quartz Countertops?
The amount of careful effort required to properly paint quartz counters leads many homeowners to avoid the process altogether. There are a few pros and cons to weigh if considering undertaking the project:
Pros of Painting Quartz
- Less expensive than replacing counters
- Wide range of color options
- Can mask damage or stains
- Provides an updated look
Cons of Painting Quartz
- Extremely labor intensive
- Risk of visible seams or grout lines
- Could appear spotty or blotchy
- Loses the natural pattern/texture
- More prone to damage long term
Painting can be an affordable way to refresh the look of quartz, but expect to put in a lot of prep work. And know that results may not last as long as desired before requiring touch ups.
Many opt to just embrace the existing counters rather than paint. Or choose to reface with new quartz or other surface materials for a permanent change.
Professional Painting as an Option
If attempting to paint quartz counters yourself seems too daunting, hiring professional painters is an option. Companies that specialize in painting quartz will have the right techniques, tools, and products to achieve optimal results.
The process of prepping, priming, painting, and sealing quartz requires skill. Professionals often use sprayers and airbrushes rather than rollers to get the best coverage.
Hiring out quartz painting also saves the hassle and allows your kitchen or bath to be transformed quicker. But it comes at a higher cost than a DIY project. Shop around for quotes from painters experienced with quartz.
Maintaining Painted Quartz Countertops
If you do opt to paint your quartz counters, keep in mind that maintenance will be required. The paint coat simply does not have the durability and stain/scratch resistance of the original quartz surface.
Here are some tips for maintaining painted quartz:
- Use cutting boards and hot pads to protect from knives and hot pans
- Clean gently with soft sponges or cloths to avoid scratching
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads
- Reseal painted surface annually to retain protection
- Expect to touch up paint as needed over time as it wears
Painting quartz is not a permanent one-and-done solution. Expect to put a little more care into maintaining your painted counters.
Other Options Beyond Painting
For those seeking an updated look without the intensive process of painting, what are some options?
- Remodel with new counters – Install fresh quartz, granite, solid surface, or other countertop materials for a brand new look.
- Quartz overlay – Some companies can install new quartz right on top of existing counters.
- Countertop resurfacing – Materials like liquid glass polymers create a smooth updated finish.
- Swap backsplash – New backsplash tile can help refresh the kitchen for less.
- Update accessories – New faucets, lighting, cabinets pulls, and more can makeover the space.
If your heart is set on paint, go for it. But weigh the pros, cons, cost, and effort vs. alternative options for giving your space a makeover.
Conclusion
Painting quartz countertops is certainly possible for the committed DIYer. But the non-porous surface presents some challenges that require extensive prep work. Results will not compare to the durability and stain resistance of unpainted quartz. And expect to put ongoing effort into maintaining the painted finish. For many homeowners, the juice is simply not worth the squeeze.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding if painting your quartz counters is the right solution for your kitchen or bath. Understanding the intensive process involved allows you to make an informed choice. With proper application, painting can refresh the look of quartz. But also know when it may be wise to explore new countertop materials or other options for an updated space.