Thinking of Painting Your Kitchen Sink? Here's What You Need to Know
Is your kitchen sink looking dull or dated? Painting it can give an instant facelift without the cost of full replacement. With proper prep and materials, you can easily paint most sink types in a weekend.
Read on to learn everything required for a successful DIY sink paint job.
Overview of Painting a Kitchen Sink
Painting a worn-out kitchen sink transforms the space instantly with a fresh new look. It's a budget-friendly alternative to a full sink replacement, which can cost $200-$500 installed.
The process involves thoroughly cleaning and scuffing up the sink surface so paint can adhere properly. Quality enamel spray paint formulated for slick surfaces like porcelain or metal works best. With some simple tools and materials, plus a little elbow grease, even novice DIYers can paint most existing sinks in less than a day.
While cheaper than replacement, keep in mind paint may scratch or fade over time and require touching up. Proper preparation helps paint hold up longer. Overall, painting beats replacement for a quick, affordable kitchen refresh.
Pros of Painting vs. New Sink Installation
- Much lower cost - $50-$150 vs. $200+
- Faster project taking 1 day rather than 3-5 days
- No need to hire plumber for installation
- Can customize color and finish
Cons to Consider
- Paint may scratch, fade or require touch-ups over time
- Doesn't improve sink function
- Prepping surface thoroughly is critical
Sink Materials That Can Be Painted
The existing sink material impacts the paint type and prep work required. Common sink materials like porcelain, enamel, stainless steel, and cast iron can all be prepped and painted to refresh their look.
Porcelain
Porcelain is the most popular modern sink material. It has a slick, glass-like surface that requires thorough cleaning and light sanding to help paint adhere properly. High-adhesion enamel spray paint formulated for glossy surfaces works best on porcelain.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel sinks have an ultra-smooth surface prone to water spots and showing dirt. For best results, use an enamel paint made specifically for painting metal. Lightly scuff the steel with fine sandpaper before painting.
Enamel Coated Cast Iron
Older cast iron sinks coated in enamel have slight texture that provides added adherence for paint. For maximum durability, use a primer first before applying enamel paint. Sanding also helps the paint grip.
Ceramic and Stone Composite
Ceramic and stone sinks made from a mixture of materials should be painted according to manufacturer instructions. Most often, cleaning and sanding provides adequate preparation for an enamel paint job.
Keys to Proper Prep Work
Thorough prep work is the key to achieving smooth, long-lasting paint results. Properly cleaning and sanding the sink removes grime and creates texture for paint to cling to.
Cleaning
Start by washing the sink multiple times with a degreasing cleaner or soap scum remover until all oily residue, lime scale, soap scum and dirt are gone. Rinse thoroughly. Remaining debris interferes with paint adhesion.
Sanding
After cleaning, lightly scuff the sink surface using 150 to 220 grit sandpaper. Apply minimal pressure to avoid removing the glossy finish completely. This roughens the slick surface so paint can grip properly.
Priming
Primer provides extra durability for certain sink materials like cast iron or composite sinks. Use an enamel primer compatible with your paint, allowing it to fully dry before adding top coats.
Painting Process and Materials
Choosing the right painting technique and paint provides professional looking results that stand up over time.
Spray Paint vs. Brushes/Rollers
Spraying paint with an enamel paint gun offers faster application vs. brushes or rollers. Multiple thin coats prevent drips or uneven coverage. If spraying indoors, tent off the area to avoid overspray.
For smaller touch-ups, a brush allows precise application. Use high quality 2-3 inch angled brushes and mini foam rollers.
Paint Types
Enamel spray paint bonds best on slick surfaces like porcelain, stainless steel, and enameled cast iron. Ensure the enamel paint matches the existing sink material for optimum adhesion.
Multiple Thin Coats
Apply paint in 2-3 thin, even coats following the manufacturer's directions, allowing proper drying time between coats. Thin coats help avoid drips and ensure uniform coverage.
Achieving Best Durability
Proper curing and a protective top coat enhance the painted sink's longevity and appearance over time.
Cure Time
Allow freshly painted sinks to cure for 5-7 days before regular use. Avoid submerging in water or placing hot pans during this period. This allows paint to fully harden.
Top Coat/Sealant
Adding a clear enamel sealant or top coat after curing minimizes scratches and water spots. Re-apply every 1-2 years for added protection.
Touch Ups
Despite best efforts, chips or scratches can still occur over time from heavy use. Keep extra paint to quickly fix any damaged spots.
Cost Analysis of DIY Sink Painting
Painting sinks yourself provides dramatic savings compared to professional replacement. Be sure to account for all materials and needed tools.
Paint and Materials
For most standard sized sinks, expect to spend $50-$100 for primer, paint, rollers, brushes, sandpaper, cleaning supplies, gloves, and protective equipment.
Added Value
At less than $150, painting costs significantly less than a professional sink replacement ranging from $200 into the thousands. The savings leaves budget for other kitchen upgrades.
Labor
While DIY painting takes 1 full weekend, including cure time, hiring a pro painter can compress the timeline to 1-2 days. Either way, painting beats the 5+ days for turnkey sink replacement.
Transforming Your Space With a Fresh New Sink
A coat of paint allows your sink to match your style or evolve along with trends. Before starting, think how a color change can complement your kitchen.
Complementing Your Color Scheme
Try matching or contrasting your sink to the cabinetry, backsplash, walls or countertops. Neutral cream or white opens up smaller spaces.
Modernizing on a Budget
Painting drab old sinks provides affordable modern style, whether in your own home or rental. Even solid color enameling refreshes traditional cast iron and porcelain sinks.
Expressing Your Personality
Make a bold statement by painting your sink an energetic hue like crimson red or cobalt blue. Add whimsical patterns or designs for extra flair.
FAQs About Painting Kitchen Sinks
What mistakes should you avoid?
Rushing the cleaning and sanding steps can cause paint to peel or chip later. Also avoid spraying paint too thick or drying between coats. Always read manufacturer directions.
How long does the new paint last?
With proper prep and care, quality enamel paint can last 1-3 years before needing touch up. High-use areas succumb to scratches sooner.
What kind of prep is needed for porcelain?
Cleaning with a degreaser and 220 grit sanding ready porcelain sinks for painting. Rinse and dry thoroughly after sanding before painting.
What are the best paint brands to use?
Rust-Oleum and Krylon make top-quality enamel spray paints designed specifically for porcelain, metal and ceramic sinks.
For a seamless look, use the same paint on the sink's exterior surfaces. Remove hardware and fully mask areas not being painted.