Home Makeover Diva

Home Design Makeover Ideas

You are here: Home / Kitchen / Countertop / Granite Over Existing Countertop

Granite Over Existing Countertop

05.21.2011 by Amanda Hartley //

Today a reader asked:

Diva, I’ve seen a lot of products that you can use to paint over existing formica countertops to make them look like granite, and I’ve also seen the granite overlays that cover up the countertop. Which one is better? I want to “re-do” my kitchen without spending a ton of money. Please, help!

When in comes to low-cost kitchen remodels you’re definitely on the right track by finding lower cost alternatives to granite. Whether you’re putting granite over existing countertop with a granite looking paint process or opt for the granite overlay your kitchen will be transformed! So let’s look at the pros and cons of both:

There are a few different paint processes out there that transform an existing formica countertop.  They range in price from $50 up to $300 depending on the size of your kitchen and which company you opt for.  A paint process is definitely the lowest cost way to redo your countertops. And many of them fool the causal observer into thinking you put real granite in your kitchen! That said, the paint process typically takes a couple of days from start to finish and then you need to wait a period of time for the product to cure fully before using your countertops like you normally would.

Just like with granite-looking paint processes available, there are several companies that offer granite overlay products. Unlike the paint processes however, granite overlay is actually made of real granite. It’s just thinner than what you get when you purchase granite slab!  Most granite overlays are the same thickness you could expect from a granite tile, which is approx. 5/8″.  You can either order a kit and do it yourself or have a company professionally do it for you. One thing to be aware of is that some granite overlay products are actually granite tile and you will indeed have visible seams. So if you’re looking for the seamless look of a granite countertop, make sure to check into seam placement before ordering.

Granite Over Existing Countertop

Depending on the size and project granite overlay products can start as low as $10 a square foot and range in price up to $30. This is just an average and you should be aware that it depends on where you live and shipping costs for the do it yourself kits.  As with any other home improvement project, do your research before purchasing. Even though granite overlay products are not as thick as slab granite, it’s still more expensive than granite-looking paint. Still, it will generally take less time to complete. See, some companies boast that you can have completely different countertops in just one day using the granite paint method. Most mention it could take one to two days, though.  Once the granite overlay is installed you won’t have a wait period, unlike granite-looking paint process.

As you can see above, there really isn’t one type that is better than the other when it comes to granite over existing countertop.  It all depends on how much money you want to spend and how long you want the process to take. Consider your budget and your level of know how before deciding on this or any other project!

Do you have questions about the selecting or the installation of: tile, carpet or wall treatments (window blinds, etc)? Then email me your tale of woe (diva(at)homemakeoverdiva.com) and perhaps I will be able to answer your questions right here at the Home Makeover Diva Blog!

Categories // Countertop Tags // granite countertop, granite looking paint process, Granite Over Existing Countertop, granite overlay, granite paint, granite tile, low-cost kitchen remodel

Cheap Cellular Shades

Cheap Cellular Shades

Today Kathy writes: Can you find cheap cellular shades? I saw your article on hunter douglas but I don’t want to spend that much. I’m purchasing them for a vacation home and don’t want to spend that much money on somewhere we only spend a couple of months out of the year. What do you […]

1 Inch Blinds vs 2 Inch Blinds

Today Thomas asks: I’m getting ready to put new blinds in my condo and I’m not sure what I want. What is the difference between 1″ blinds vs 2″ blinds? Well Thomas, that is a very good question.  It’s very difficult to decide what type of window blinds to purchase, especially if you don’t know […]

replace-or-refinish-bathroom-vanity

Refinishing Or Replacing Your Bathroom Vanity Cabinet

Today Carissa writes: Dear Diva, I’ve lived in my house for 4 years now and I can’t take my master bathroom any longer! It’s fixtures are old and I’m ready for a re-do! Problem is, my budget isn’t very big. I have given it a lot of thought, and I think if I change the bathroom […]

healthy-carpet-choices

Healthy Carpet Choices

Today Pamela writes, Hello Diva, Please help me as I’m confused on which eco-friendly/healthy carpet to choose for my bedroom!  I know wool is good but I cannot handle the idea of bugs leaving eggs in it.  After reading the blog I know my choices are: Mohawk Smartstrand vs Dupont Sorona vs Beaulieu’s Bliss.  I even read […]

smartstrand vs shaw r2x carpet

Mohawk Smartstrand vs. Shaw R2X Carpet

Recently I found a series of videos on YouTube that reminded me of the Mac vs. Windows commercials we’ve all seen on TV. The difference however, was that these videos were for Mohawk Smartstrand vs. Shaw R2X Carpet!  Needless to say I was intrigued. With the exception of Armstrong, I’ve found that most flooring commercials […]

Copyright © 2021 · Modern Studio Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Reject Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

SAVE & ACCEPT