Laminate flooring has long been a favourite among UK homeowners for its affordability, durability, and modern appeal. But if you’re staring down a dated, overly shiny floor that’s seen better days, you might be wondering — can I just paint over it?
It’s a fair question, especially if you’re craving a budget-friendly refresh. The short answer is yes, you can paint laminate flooring. But the longer answer? It’s not for the faint of heart. As experts at UK Flooring Depot, we’ve seen every DIY scenario imaginable, and painting laminate is one of those projects that sits firmly in the “possible but tricky” category.
Before you pick up that paint roller, here’s what you need to know — including preparation, process, and whether it’s really worth the effort.
Can You Really Paint Laminate Flooring?
Technically, yes — laminate flooring can be painted. But it’s not designed to be.
Unlike solid wood or engineered wood flooring, laminate is made from high-density fibreboard (HDF) with a photographic top layer that mimics the look of real wood, and a clear plastic coating that resists moisture, scratches, and stains. That protective layer is great for durability — but terrible for paint adhesion.
In short, laminate doesn’t like being painted. Paint will struggle to stick to the slick, plastic-like surface, and any shortcuts in prep will show quickly in the form of peeling, scratching, or flaking.
So while it can be done, it’s important to manage expectations. Painted laminate flooring can look great temporarily, but it won’t perform like its factory finish.
How to Paint Laminate Flooring (The Right Way)
Step 1: Preparation
Success starts with surface prep. Clean your laminate thoroughly using a degreaser or trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove any wax, dirt, or oils. Allow it to dry completely.
Next, lightly sand the surface using 120–150 grit sandpaper. You’re not trying to remove the finish entirely — just create a slightly rough texture to help the primer grip. Vacuum and wipe away all dust before moving on.
Step 2: Prime
This is the make-or-break stage. Use a bonding primer formulated for slick surfaces, such as an adhesion or multi-surface primer. Apply evenly with a roller and let it fully cure — not just “touch dry.”
Skipping this step or rushing the cure time will almost certainly lead to peeling later.
Step 3: Paint
Choose a durable floor paint, like interior enamel or porch and floor paint, designed for high-traffic areas. Two coats are the minimum recommendation, allowing proper drying time between applications (often 24–48 hours per coat).
Be patient — the longer the paint cures, the stronger the finish.
Step 4: Seal
Once the paint is fully cured, apply 2–3 coats of water-based polyurethane sealer. This adds a protective layer and helps resist scratches. Avoid oil-based sealers, as they tend to yellow over time.
When all’s said and done, wait several days before moving furniture back in or walking on the surface to ensure maximum durability.
The Pros and Cons of Painting Laminate Flooring
The Upside
Painting laminate flooring can be a cost-effective, short-term solution. If you’re staging a property, renting, or simply wanting a change without a full replacement, it’s a quick way to transform the look.
You also get full creative control. Whether you want a minimalist whitewashed look, a dark dramatic tone, or something bold and modern, you can tailor the floor to match your interior vision.
The Downside
Unfortunately, the cons are hard to ignore. Painted laminate is less durable, easily scuffed, and more prone to wear from furniture, pets, or heavy traffic. It’s also not water-resistant — any spill or moisture can cause bubbling or peeling.
And once it starts to flake, maintaining a consistent finish becomes a constant battle. Cleaning also becomes more delicate — no harsh chemicals or abrasive mops allowed.
For those seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring upgrade, it’s often wiser to replace rather than repaint.
Is It Worth Painting Your Laminate Floor?
If you’re handy, patient, and realistic about the outcome, painting laminate can buy you some time before a full renovation. But if you’re after a permanent solution that looks stunning and stands the test of time, consider replacing it with one of our modern flooring options:
Explore our Laminate Flooring Collection for affordable, stylish replacements that look and feel authentic.
For extra luxury, browse our Real Wood Flooring collection, offering natural beauty and timeless appeal.
Transform your home with the elegance of Herringbone & Parquet Flooring, perfect for a classic statement.
Choose Vinyl (LVT) Flooring or Waterproof Flooring for durable, spill-resistant options ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Don’t miss our Sale Section for premium floors at unbeatable prices.
Replacing your old laminate might take a little more upfront investment, but it offers lasting results, better aesthetics, and zero paint flakes to sweep up.
FAQs
Can I use chalk paint or regular wall paint on laminate flooring?
Not recommended. These paints aren’t designed for foot traffic and will chip or peel quickly, even with sealant. Use floor-specific enamel or epoxy paints instead.
How long does painted laminate flooring last?
Depending on traffic and maintenance, you might get 6–12 months before noticeable wear appears. Heavy use areas may show damage sooner.
Can I paint laminate flooring without sanding?
You can try, but adhesion will suffer. Light sanding helps primer and paint grip the surface — skipping it almost guarantees peeling.
Will painting laminate void its warranty?
Yes. Once painted, the manufacturer’s warranty is no longer valid, as the product has been modified from its original design.
Summary
So, can you paint laminate flooring? Yes — but with caution. It’s a labour-intensive project that can refresh a tired floor temporarily, but it won’t offer long-term durability.
At UK Flooring Depot, we recommend considering painting only as a short-term solution. For a floor that truly lasts — combining style, performance, and easy maintenance — explore our collections of Laminate, Real Wood, Herringbone & Parquet, Vinyl (LVT), and Waterproof Flooring — or visit our Sale section for exclusive offers.
Bring your space to life with flooring that’s built to perform, not just to impress.
