A new benchtop can completely change the look of a kitchen, but the price tag often comes as a shock. If replacement isn’t on the cards, painting your existing benchtop can be a smart, budget friendly alternative that delivers a noticeable lift without pulling the whole kitchen apart.
That said, benchtops aren’t like walls or cupboards. They cop constant use, spills, heat and cleaning, so success comes down to doing the right prep and using the right products. That’s where the Dulux Renovation Range Tiles & Benchtops comes in.
Here's what you need:
Here’s how you paint a kitchen benchtop:
Step 1: Clean
Start by removing grease, food residue and cleaning product build‑up from the benchtop surfaces. Then, using Selleys Sugar Soap, wash down the benchtop to cut through any remaining grime. Rinse well with clean water and allow the benchtop to dry completely before moving on.
Expert Tip – Don’t skip this step. Any residue left behind can stop paint from bonding properly, leading to a poor finish.
Step 2: Sand
Once dry, lightly sand the entire benchtop to remove the glossy finish and help the primer grip with 120 grit sandpaper. You are not trying to remove the surface, just rough it up enough to create a good surface for the primer to adhere to. Pay extra attention to high‑use areas around sinks and cooktops. Wipe away all sanding dust with a damp cloth and allow the surface to dry.
Step 3: Mask
Use masking tape to mask around the splashback, exposed cabinetry, sinks and any unmovable appliances. Lay drop sheets to cover floors and nearby surfaces. Trust us, taking the time to mask properly now will make the painting process cleaner and far less stressful later.
Step 4: Prime
Add the additive to the Dulux Renovation Range Primer and mix thoroughly. Apply 1x even coat, first cutting in around the edges before rolling the benchtop surface. The Dulux Renovation Range has much longer recoat times than standard wall paints. For the primer coat, 4 hours dry time is needed before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Paint
Apply 2x coats of Dulux Renovation Range Tiles & Benchtops in your chosen colour. Begin by cutting in with a brush, before rolling. Like the primer, Dulux Renovation Range Tiles & Benchtops has a much longer recoat time than regular wall paint. 8 hours drying time is needed before applying our next coat.
We suggest working in sections to try and limit the impact that this drying time has on your project. However, don’t rush to get painting again. For the best finish, you’re going to need to have some patience. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.
Step 6: Seal
Using the Dulux Renovation Range Clear Coat Satin, apply 1x even coat to the kitchen benchtops. This will protect your newly painted benchtop from everyday wear, adding extra durability and helping resist stains. Allow to cure completely for at least 8 hours.
A painted benchtop can make a surprising difference to the overall look and feel of your kitchen, offering an affordable alternative to a full replacement. With careful preparation, the right products, and plenty of patience between coats, you can achieve a durable finish that breathes new life into a tired space.
Ready to take your kitchen makeover even further? Explore our guides on painting kitchen cupboard doors, splashbacks and tiles to create a cohesive, modern look throughout your kitchen. With the right advice and quality paint products, your next kitchen transformation could be closer than you think.