The problem now adays is that people trying to make money in the reno business are too pressed for time, trying to maximize their profits while minimizing their time and effort. Being in the industry as a salesman for a higher end product, and seeing people buy low-end crap more frequently as of late, I can attest to this tragic trend.
To paint my kitchen cabinets with melamine paint, we took all the doors off and layed them down flat in our living room, propped up off the ground about an inch with 4 inch long sections of cut up hockey sticks (We had lots of old ones around). We then put the first coat on one side of the doors, and half the cabinets. 24 hours later, the second coat went on. 24 hours later, the doors were flipped and coated once, and the other half of the cabinets were coated. 24 hours later, the second coat went on.
When we hung the cabinet doors 24 hours later, they were completely dry to the touch, but we left the cupboard doors open and the cupboards empty for 3 more days while we took care of the countertops/sink/floors, to allow for fumes to air out and for the paint to fully dry if it wasn't already.
Some things to note: the cupboard doors were lacquered laminate, and to this day there have been no chips or scratches, despite being in a very small kitchen where they recieve ample abuse. Also, the paint dries better in colder temperatures as opposed to what I always thought. February nighttime temperatures worked wonders. We painted after work every day, probably around 4-5pm. By 8pm, it was still tacky but I could touch it. The next morning, fully dry.
Melamine's great, but apparently, it's being banned in some areas or stores. Too bad, it works!
May 27, 2011 Rating
Love Malamine paint by: Angie
I have used malamine paint on a counter at work, a steel file cabinet, counters in my kitchen and in two bathrooms. I love the results. There is a special technique to applying the paint and you need to use a small sponge roller. You have to have patience and take your time to see positive results. My next project is the motorhome table tops and counter top.
It's not the same as replacing the melamine, but for a temporary cheap way to change the colour without total restoration, this is the way to go.
Dec 09, 2010 Rating
Hi Jim by: Anonymous
There are a number of reasons why paint fails. Usually in painting - it is the fault of the applicator.
