Painting your laminate flooring can give your space a new, modern feel and update the tired, worn-out look of the floor. But, before you embark on this project, it is important to know what kind of paint and primer are best.
Painting laminate flooring can easily be achieved with water-based paint that is specifically made for painting floors. These paints are designed to last and will not easily show wear. A bonding primer should also be used. This will help create a better bond between the paint and the surface of the floor.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 6 factors to consider when choosing paint for laminate flooring
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint, primer, and sealer for laminate flooring
The 6 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Laminate Flooring
1. Type of Paint
The type of paint you choose for your laminate flooring can make a significant difference in the overall look and durability. Choose a paint specifically made for painting floors, as this type of paint is designed to stand up to foot traffic and everyday wear and tear.
2. Durability
Durability is a critical factor when it comes to choosing the right paint for laminate flooring. You want paint that can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist chipping and peeling.
3. Color and Finish
Choosing the right color and finish for your laminate flooring can make a significant difference in the overall look of the room. When choosing the color, it’s essential to consider the existing decor and the mood you want to create.
Lighter colors tend to make the room look more spacious, while darker colors add depth and warmth. The finish you choose will also impact the look and durability of the paint.
Matte finishes provide a muted, subtle look, while gloss finishes offer a shiny appearance that reflects light.
4. Maintenance
When choosing paint for your laminate flooring, it’s crucial to consider how easy it is to maintain. Your floor will get a lot of traffic and wear, and you want paint that is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and stains. Water-based paints are generally easier to clean and maintain, while oil-based paints require more effort to keep clean.
5. Application Method
Paint comes in a variety of application methods, including rollers, brushes, and sprays. Choose a paint that can be applied with the method of your choice.
Spray paint is usually the quickest and easiest way to apply paint, while rollers and brushes are better suited for painting intricate designs or patterns on your floor.
6. Budget
Lastly, your budget plays a significant role in the type of paint you choose for your laminate flooring. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for.
High-quality paints tend to be more expensive, but they offer better coverage, durability, and a longer-lasting finish. Ultimately, the right choice of paint for your laminate flooring should balance quality, functionality, and affordability.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Water-based Paint
Water-based paint, also known as latex or acrylic paint, is a type of paint where the binder and carrier are primarily water. This is in contrast to oil-based paints, where the binder is an alkyd resin and the carrier is a solvent.
Pros
- Easy Clean-up: Can be cleaned up with just soap and water, making it easier to work with.
- Quick Drying: It dries faster than oil-based paints, which can speed up your project timeline.
- Low VOCs: Usually have fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them safer for indoor use.
- Less Odor: These paints typically have less of a strong smell compared to oil-based paints.
- Non-Yellowing: Unlike oil-based paint, water-based paint does not yellow over time.
Cons
- Durability: While water-based paint can be quite durable, it may not hold up as well on a high-traffic surface like a floor.
- Adhesion: Laminate is a slick surface and water-based paint might not adhere well without proper preparation.
- Multiple Coats Needed: Depending on the color and quality of the paint, you may need multiple coats to get an even, opaque finish.
- Not as Smooth: Often won’t level out as well as oil-based paints, which can result in visible brush strokes.
- Sealing Required: A sealer will likely need to be applied after painting to protect the surface from wear and tear.
Oil-based Paint
Oil-based paint, also known as solvent-based or alkyd paint, is a type of paint that uses an oil-based solvent as the carrier for the pigments and binders.
Pros
- Durability: Very durable and stands up well to heavy foot traffic and wear and tear, which makes it suitable for floors.
- Smooth Finish: It tends to self-level and dries to a very smooth finish, reducing visible brush strokes.
- Adhesion: Has excellent adhesion properties and can stick to surfaces like laminate better than some other types of paint.
- One Coat Coverage: Provides better one-coat coverage than water-based paint.
Cons
- Long Drying Time: Takes longer to dry than water-based paints, which can extend your project timeline.
- Strong Odor: They have a strong smell that can linger for days, requiring good ventilation during and after painting.
- High VOCs: Typically contain more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than water-based paints, which can be harmful in enclosed spaces.
- Difficult Clean-up: Cleaning brushes and rollers used with oil-based paint requires solvents such as mineral spirits or turpentine.
- Can Yellow Over Time: Over time, oil-based paint can yellow, especially in areas with low light.
- Environmental Concerns: Due to high VOC levels, disposal of oil-based paint can be more challenging and may have more environmental impact.
What Paint Finish Is Best?
In general, it is recommended to go for a high-quality, water-based satin or semi-gloss finish to ensure optimal durability and resistance against scuffs, scratches, and stains.
Satin finish paints are incredibly versatile, making them an excellent option for laminate floors. They provide a subtle sheen that isn’t too glossy, making them less prone to revealing scratches and imperfections.
The smooth, silky texture also makes it easier to clean and maintain, as it doesn’t attract dirt and dust as much as other finishes. Satin finishes dry slower than matte finishes, which can be beneficial for novice painters as they allow for easier touch-ups and smoother application.
On the other hand, semi-gloss finishes are much shinier and reflect more light than their satin counterparts. This makes them ideal for areas that experience high foot traffic and moisture levels, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Semi-gloss paints are incredibly durable and can resist moisture, grime, and mildew better than other finishes. They’re also relatively easy to clean and maintain, which is especially important for households with young children and pets.
When it comes to choosing the right paint finish for laminate flooring, it’s essential to keep in mind the surroundings, intended use, and personal preferences.
The Best Paint, Primer, and Sealer for Laminate Flooring
Best Brush-on Paint
It is important to choose a paint that can withstand wear and tear as well as weather-resistant, and Valspar Latex Satin Porch, Floor & Patio Paint is just the perfect fit for the job.
This acrylic coating is available in a range of satin and gloss sheens, which can protect your laminate floor for years to come.
One of its key benefits is its ability to glide ultra-smooth and create a hard finish. This means that after the paint has dried, you can expect a smooth, durable surface that is resistant to scuffs, wear, and scratches.
Another advantage of this enamel is its quick-drying formula that provides excellent color fastness. For those looking to give their laminate flooring a new lease of life in record time, this paint is ideal. What’s more, clean-up is a breeze with easy water cleanup.
Valspar Latex Satin Porch, Floor & Patio Paint is also available in a variety of sheens, including satin, gloss, and tintable to most Valspar colors.
This means that you can choose the perfect sheen that matches your interior or exterior decor and customize the color to your preference.
Best Spray Paint
Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint is undoubtedly the go-to option. This premium general-purpose spray paint boasts ultimate coverage and is formulated to adhere to a wide range of surfaces, including the notoriously hard-to-paint laminate flooring.
Thanks to its breakthrough Double Coverage Technology, this spray paint offers twice the coverage of other paints, giving you more bang for your buck and enabling you to finish your flooring project in half the time.
Plus, with its any-angle spray system and comfort spray tip, you can easily and smoothly spray even the hardest-to-reach corners without experiencing any finger fatigue.
But what sets it apart is its exceptional durability. This spray paint is designed to withstand both indoor and outdoor wear and tear, ensuring that your laminate flooring will remain looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. And with its smooth, semi-gloss finish, you’ll love the way your flooring looks and feels underfoot.
Available in four convenient colors, Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint is the ultimate solution for anyone looking to revamp their laminate flooring without breaking the bank.
Best Primer
If you’re in search of an effective and efficient primer-sealer for your laminate flooring, then look no further than Valspar Stain-blocking Bonding Primer-Sealer.
This versatile primer is specially designed to provide superior adhesion even over glossy surfaces, making it ideal for use on laminate flooring.
One of its standout features is its heavy-duty stain-blocking capabilities. This primer is formulated to prevent old stains from reappearing, ensuring that your laminate flooring remains looking pristine for years to come.
It’s especially useful if you’re dealing with a particularly challenging stain, such as pet urine or water stains.
Additionally, this primer improves topcoat performance and durability. Once applied, this primer-sealer helps your topcoat adhere better to the surface, which means it won’t peel or flake off easily. This not only saves you time and money but also ensures that your laminate flooring maintains its sleek look.
Another great advantage is that it works with all paint sheens and topcoats. So whether you’re using a glossy, satin, or matte topcoat, it will work seamlessly to provide excellent adhesion and stain-blocking protection.
The primer dries in just 30 minutes, which means you can get back to painting your laminate flooring in no time. It’s also sandable, which means you can easily smoothen out any imperfections on your laminate flooring before applying the topcoat.
Cleanup is also a breeze with this primer as it can be easily cleaned up with soap and water. This means you don’t have to worry about using harsh chemicals or solvents to clean up after your painting project is complete.
Best Sealer
There is no better option than Rust-Oleum Varathane Crystal Clear Water-Based Polyurethane Sealer. This specially formulated sealer provides excellent protection against scratches, stains, and other forms of wear and tear.
Unlike other sealers, Varathane Crystal Clear Water-Based Polyurethane is crystal clear and odorless, making it the perfect choice for those who want to maintain the natural beauty of their laminate floors.
What sets it apart from other sealers is its water-based formula. This allows for easy cleanup with just soap and water and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals.
Furthermore, the formula is non-yellowing, ensuring that your laminate flooring retains its vibrant color for years to come.
Not only is it perfect for laminate flooring, but it is also a great choice for other interior surfaces such as furniture, doors, windows, cabinets, and trim.
Its versatility and durability make it an excellent investment for any homeowner looking to protect and prolong the life of their interior surfaces.
In addition to its practical benefits, Varathane Crystal Clear Water-Based Polyurethane is also eco-friendly. Its low VOC content makes it safe for use in enclosed spaces and reduces harmful fumes and emissions.