Granite surfaces are an excellent option for countertops, backsplashes, and floors. They are durable, elegant, and easy to clean. However, sometimes homeowners want to put a creative twist on their granite surfaces, and that’s where painting comes in. You may wonder what paint and primer is best for granite surfaces.
Acrylic paint is the most recommended paint to use on granite surfaces. Acrylic paints are highly durable and provide great coverage. An acrylic-based primer should also be used before painting granite. This will help the paint bond with the surface and provide an even finish.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 3 factors to consider when choosing paint for granite
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for granite
The 3 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Granite
1. Paint Type
When selecting paint for granite surfaces, the type of paint you choose will largely depend on the location and desired outcome of the painting project.
You may want to use high-quality acrylic latex paint for interior surfaces such as kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, or fireplace surrounds.
On the other hand, if you’re painting exterior granite surfaces, you may need to use paint with better weather resistance, such as epoxy or polyurethane paint.
2. Durability
The durability of the paint is another critical factor to consider. You want to choose a paint that can withstand the test of time, resist chipping and peeling, and remain vibrant over an extended period. This will save on cost in the long term and ensure that your granite retains its new look for an extended period.
3. Quality
Quality is a crucial consideration when choosing paint for granite. You should never compromise on paint quality, as it can lead to a poor paint job. Invest in high-quality paint that is specially formulated for granite. A high-quality paint will provide a smooth finish, and it will also last longer.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a water-based paint known for its quick drying time and versatility. It’s made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion, making it flexible and resistant to external forces.
Pros
- Adhesion: Adheres well to granite with proper surface preparation.
- Fast Drying: Dries quickly, allowing for rapid application of multiple coats if needed.
- Water Resistance: Once dry, it is water-resistant, benefiting granite surfaces that may come into contact with water.
- Easy Clean-up: Brushes and spills can be cleaned easily with soap and water.
Cons
- Surface Preparation: Granite surfaces must be properly prepared for the acrylic paint to adhere well.
- Durability: While acrylic paint is relatively durable, it might not hold up as well as unpainted granite over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
Epoxy Paint
Epoxy paint is a type of paint that combines epoxy resin and a hardener to create a tough, long-lasting surface. It’s known for its durability and resistance to chemicals, heat, and abrasion.
Pros
- Durability: Provides a durable finish that can resist scratches and provide years of use.
- Chemical Resistance: Is resistant to many common household chemicals, making it a good choice for areas like kitchens.
- Heat Resistance: Can withstand heat better than many other types of paint.
- Glossy Finish: Typically dries to a high-gloss finish, which can enhance the look of the granite.
Cons
- Difficult Application: Applying epoxy paint requires precision and expertise. Errors during application can lead to imperfections in the finish.
- Potentially Hazardous: The fumes from epoxy paint can be harmful if inhaled, so proper safety measures should be taken during application.
- Surface Preparation: Granite surfaces must be properly prepared (cleaned and etched) for the epoxy paint to adhere well.
What Paint Finish Is Best?
Granite is a natural stone material known for its durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and heat. As such, it requires a paint finish that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use while enhancing its lustrous appearance.
Based on this, a semi-gloss or gloss finish is generally recommended for granite surfaces. These finishes offer excellent durability and protection against wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
A gloss finish, in particular, can enhance the reflective qualities of granite, adding a stunning shine to the surface. However, it’s worth noting that these finishes are highly reflective and may not be suitable for every aesthetic preference.
Alternatively, a satin finish may also be suitable for granite surfaces. While not as reflective or shiny as a semi-gloss or gloss finish, this finish is still relatively durable and can provide a nice middle ground between a flat and gloss finish.
It can offer a subtle sheen that enhances the natural beauty of the granite without being too shiny or attention-grabbing.
The Best Paint and Primer for Granite
Best Paint
Valspar Signature Interior Paint + Primer is one of the best when painting granite. This paint and primer combo boasts ScuffShield Technology, which resists scuffs and stains, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. Its 100% acrylic formula ensures that it stands up to anything while providing a smooth, high-hiding finish.
It is also ideal for granite surfaces because of its fade and mildew-resistant finish. No need to worry about the color fading over time or unsightly mildew growth.
And speaking of color, this paint offers stand-out colors that are rich and fade-resistant, ensuring that your granite surface looks as good as new for longer.
Not only does Valspar Signature Interior Paint + Primer look great, but it also comes backed by a lifetime warranty. That means you can trust this paint to stand the test of time, no matter how much wear and tear your granite surface experiences.
Best Primer
Kilz Adhesion Primer is not only effective on tough-to-paint surfaces, but it also serves as an excellent primer for granite. This water-based modified-acrylic primer features advanced chemistry that provides a strong anchor for topcoats, ensuring a long-lasting finished project.
The primer enhances adhesion, making it ideal for granite countertops or any other granite surface requiring a fresh coat of paint.
Using it on granite ensures the paint will adhere securely to the surface without heavy sanding or prepping. This primer reduces the time and effort spent prepping, giving you more time to focus on the task.
Moreover, Kilz Adhesion Primer is suitable for interior and exterior surfaces, making it the perfect primer for indoor and outdoor granite projects. However, it is not recommended for use on floors or horizontal surfaces subject to prolonged water contact.