Blog > Will Vinyl Flooring Scratch: Here's What You Need To Know

Can you paint laminate flooring: here's what to know before you start

Quick points about painting laminate flooring:

• Yes, it’s possible to paint laminate, but it’s rarely the best long‑term solution.
• Biggest issues: poor adhesion, peeling at seams, scuffs/scratches, and moisture around kitchens/baths.
• If you must paint, use rigorous prep, a bonding primer, and a durable topcoat, and manage expectations: touch‑ups are likely.
• Better alternatives for most homes: new click‑lock laminate or LVP over existing floor (if height/doors allow) or a full replacement for warranties and resale.
  
  

Why Painting Laminate Is Tricky

Laminate has a factory‑applied melamine wear layer that’s smooth and non‑porous—great for stains, bad for paint adhesion. Add micro‑bevels and joints that flex with temperature/humidity and you get a surface where coatings often scuff, chip, or peel. High‑traffic areas (kitchens, entries) and spots exposed to water fail first.

Expectations check

• Painted laminate is a temporary facelift—good for staging, short‑term rentals, or a tight budget.
• Not recommended for wet areas (full baths, laundry rooms) or homes with heavy pet traffic.
• May void warranties and could reduce buyer confidence at resale.
  
  

If You Still Want to Paint: The Strict Prep Routine

Note: Test a small, out‑of‑the‑way area first. If adhesion fails after a week of normal use, don’t proceed.

Tools & materials

• TSP substitute or degreaser, microfiber cloths
• 120–180 grit sanding screens, pole sander or orbital sander
• Vacuum (hard‑floor setting) + tack cloths
• Bonding primer (adhesion/"gripper" type)
• High‑quality floor enamel or urethane‑reinforced acrylic; optional 2K water‑borne polyurethane topcoat for extra durability
• 6" foam rollers + 1/4" nap roller, quality angled brush
• Painter’s tape, knee pads, respirator, fans
  
  

Step‑by‑step

1. Clean thoroughly: remove oils, polishes, and residue. Rinse and dry.
2. Scuff‑sand lightly to dull the sheen (don’t burn through the wear layer). Vacuum + tack.
3. Mask baseboards, transitions, and any adjacent surfaces.
4. Prime with an adhesion primer; roll thin, even coats. Dry per label.
5. Paint 1–2 thin coats of floor‑rated enamel; maintain a wet edge.
6. Optional: Topcoat with a clear water‑borne urethane for abrasion resistance.
7. Cure time: Respect full cure (not just dry) before moving furniture/rugs—often 5–7 days.
8. Protect with felt pads, chair mats, and breathable rug pads.
   
   

Design options

• Solid color for a clean look.
• Faux stencil or checkerboard—but expect visible joints to telegraph through.
• Low‑sheen/matte hides scuffs better than gloss.
  
  

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

• Peeling at plank edges: Don’t flood‑mop; avoid water pooling. Keep humidity stable.
• Scratches from chairs: Use soft casters or chair mats; replace felt pads every few months.
• Sticky finish: Heavy coats or incompatible layers. Follow recoat windows; use systems designed to work together.
• Roller marks: Use quality foam/short‑nap rollers; keep a wet edge; sand lightly between coats if needed.
  
  

Smarter Alternatives to Painting

1) Floating Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

• Waterproof, more scratch‑resistant, and often installs over existing floors (check height/door clearances).
• Realistic textures and quieter underfoot with proper underlayment.
  
  

2) New Laminate with Tough Wear Layer

• Modern laminates offer excellent scratch resistance and easier maintenance.
• Some are highly water‑resistant for kitchens and basements.
  
  

3) Area Rugs & Runners

• Budget‑friendly way to hide wear while adding comfort and design.
• Choose pads compatible with laminate finishes.
  
  

4) Partial Replacement

• Replace the worst rooms now, phase the rest later for a cohesive result.
  
  

Cost & Time Snapshot

• Paint route: Materials $100–$300+; 2–3 days of work plus 5–7 days cure before heavy use.
• LVP overlay: Material & install vary by brand and subfloor—often cost‑effective with better durability and warranty support.
• Full replacement: Higher upfront cost, but the best outcome for resale and longevity.
  
  

Care & Maintenance (Painted Laminate)

• Dry clean frequently; damp‑mop with pH‑neutral cleaner.
• No steam mops or abrasive pads.
• Use entry mats and furniture pads; lift, don’t slide.
• Plan for annual touch‑ups in traffic lanes.
  
  

FAQs

Will paint void my floor’s warranty?
Usually yes; painting is considered an alteration. Keep documentation if selling the home.

Can I paint just to change the color temporarily?
Yes, but treat it as a short‑term cosmetic fix. Expect visible seams and some touch‑ups.

What about bathrooms or laundry rooms?
Not recommended—moisture accelerates peeling and edge failure.

How do I remove paint later?
Removing cured coatings without damaging laminate is difficult. Most homeowners replace the floor when ready for a permanent solution.

Next Steps

Want help deciding between painting, overlaying LVP, or a fresh laminate? Bring measurements and a few photos. We’ll compare costs, timelines, and samples side‑by‑side.

Helpful links:

• Laminate Flooring
• Luxury Vinyl (LVP/LVT)
• Service Areas
• Care & Maintenance - get in touch with us for more information about the best care & maintenance for your flooring type.