If your kitchen needs a revamp but complete restoration doesn’t fit your budget, you can go for a vinyl countertop cover to breathe a new life into your space. Sheet vinyl is one of the most inexpensive options, and the best thing is— it’s available in a vast range of colours, designs, and patterns.
Vinyl countertops are super easy to install; even those who don’t have any experience with home improvement projects can also install them.
Before exploring more about vinyl counter covers, click the following link if you want to see kitchen countertops types and design ideas.
Table of Contents
Why revamp your kitchen counters?
Your counter takes up significant space in the kitchen and helps set the overall tone. Also, it goes through extensive usage resulting in a dull appearance among all other elements in your kitchen. So, if your kitchen counter has started to look tired, scratched, or old, you may go for updating or replacing it.
Moreover, if you cover countertops with vinyl, here are the benefits you get:
- Achieve a completely new look to your kitchen
- Switch to a new colour scheme without spending huge money
- Above all things, you will get a scratch and stain free workspace that will make your entire kitchen feel fresh again
How to install vinyl countertops
There are two common types of vinyl counter covers:
1) Peel and stick vinyl covers
Peel and stick covers are pretty easy to use; all you need to do is peel the back off and stick it on the surface.
2) Vinyl sheets without any self-adhesives
You need to use a separate adhesive to apply vinyl to the surface. Here are the steps to install your vinyl counter cover with separate adhesive:
1. Clear off the counter and check for any dents, chips, or damage. For smooth installation, mend any cracks or holes. Also, if the surface is laminated, peel it off as per the product’s instructions. Now, let the surface dry completely, especially if you used a compound for repairing.
2. Clean your kitchen counter with a high-quality cleaner. Make sure there is no dust or dirt left on the surface. Remove the grease that’s usually accumulated around the stoves, grills, and toasters.
3. In simple terms, vinyl counter covers are thin pieces of laminate and are quite simple to work with. You can cut the vinyl sheet as per your space with a knife or a pair of scissors. For a straight cut, make use of a straightedge.
4. You will need to apply the adhesive on the surface before the vinyl cover is laid on it. Make sure the adhesive is applied evenly on the entire surface.
5. Next, you will need to set the vinyl cover quickly on the surface covered with adhesive. Apply vinyl carefully by starting at one corner along the counter’s length. Also, you will need to wiggle it slightly so that the vinyl sheet bonds properly with the adhesive. You can use a rubber roller to remove any air bubbles for a flat and smooth application.
6. It is suggested to apply the vinyl counter cover that is a little longer and wider than what is required on your kitchen surface. Once the sheet is applied, you can cut the edges for a cleaner look.
7. Let the adhesive dry completely as per the product directions. Usually, it’s suggested to leave it for 24 hours.
Pros of vinyl countertop covers
Vinyl counter covers offer extreme versatility and diversity to any space, be it a kitchen, bathroom, or any other area in your home. Vinyl countertops come with several benefits:
- Good quality vinyl countertops can last you months or even years without wear and tear.
- Have you always desired luxurious marble counters? What about wooden kitchen cabinets? Vinyl counter sheets are available in plenty of designs, so you have the freedom to experiment with any theme, colour, and texture of your choice.
- These are waterproof, which means you don’t have to worry if something spills on them.
- The vinyl cover works as an additional protective layer for your counter.
- It gives your counters a contemporary and fresh feel.
- Replacing your kitchen countertop can be a pricey affair, but vinyl counter covers offer an inexpensive solution to homeowners.
- Vinyl countertop covers are easy to install
Cons of vinyl countertop covers
Here are the disadvantages of vinyl countertops:
- Some low-quality, cheaper vinyl covers may be hard to peel off, causing damage to your original counter’s surface.
- You cannot chop veggies directly on the counters covered with vinyl.
- If any liquid gets under the vinyl cover, it can cause it to peel away quickly.
- Even the good quality vinyl counter covers can withstand heat up to 75C, which means you can place a slightly warm utensil on the surface, but excessive heat can damage the vinyl counter covers. Therefore, you can’t keep a hot pot on it.
Frequently asked questions
Do vinyl countertop covers actually work for the kitchen?
Yes, they work well even for busy kitchens, but it’s important to invest in a reasonable quality vinyl sheet. In addition, you should avoid putting hot pans on the vinyl counters.
Are peel and stick vinyl covers long-lasting?
The durability depends completely on the sheet’s thickness and self-adhesive material’s quality. If the sheet is thin, there is a chance that it will become worn out. On the other hand, thick vinyl sheets may last a couple of months or even years.
How strong should the adhesive be?
When it comes to the durability of vinyl sheets, the adhesive plays a key role. A stronger adhesive will make the vinyl last longer. However, it should not be too strong; otherwise, it can damage the surface of the original counter when removing it.
Final takeaway – Is it a good idea to cover countertops with vinyl?
The bottom line is that vinyl covers can serve as an inexpensive, temporary countertop makeover, especially in the areas that either you don’t use frequently or can’t afford to revamp just yet.
Giving your kitchen and bathroom counters a facelift is an easy option with vinyl counters and a little touch-up to other elements such as paint on the knobs and handles of cabinets, doors, and windows. So, start revamping your kitchen today!