Can You Really Paint Granite Countertops? Here’s the Truth

Have you ever looked at your old granite countertops and wondered whether they could possibly be painted rather than replaced?

The people living in Winnipeg are always on the lookout to renew their kitchens or baths in a more economical way. It also appears simpler and even free of charge to paint as compared to purchasing a new slab. But is it a good idea?

Let’s jump into the facts of painting granite countertops—what works, what doesn’t, and when replacing them with new granite countertops in Winnipeg is the smarter choice.

Can granite countertops be painted?

Yes, technically, but it is not that simple.

Granite can be painted! However, it is not to be equated to painting drywall or wood. Granite is a hard and shiny natural rock which is non-porous. It does not tend to take paint.

Here’s what makes it tricky:

Granite needs heavy surface prep before painting.
Regular paints will peel easily if not applied correctly.
You’ll likely need to seal the surface again after painting.

Why Do Homeowners Want to Paint Granite?

In most cases, people paint granite when:

The colour feels outdated.
The surface looks dull or stained.
Renovating on a tight budget.
They want a lighter or more modern look.

But just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s the best option.

Pros and Cons of Painting Granite

Pros:

Low upfront cost compared to replacing the slab.
You can change the colour to match a new design.
A DIY solution if you're confident in your skills.

Cons:

Paint may not bond well, leading to peeling or flaking.
Not as durable as original granite.
Hard to clean and maintain over time.
Can lower the value of your home if it looks cheap or patchy.
Could void warranty or resale appeal if not done professionally.

What Happens If You Paint Granite Wrong?

Many DIY projects go wrong because:

The surface wasn’t cleaned well enough.
The wrong type of primer or paint was used.
No protective topcoat was added.

Within weeks, users report:

Chipping around sink edges
Peeling in high-use areas
Discolouration from heat or cleaning agents

If that happens, you may need a full replacement—which costs even more.

Step-by-Step: How Granite Painting Works

Step 1: Clean

Wipe off the surface using a degreaser. Lips it dry.

Step 2: Surface Sanding

To get the fresh paint to adhere, scuff up the smooth upper surface using fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 3: Bonding Primer Step 3: Bonding Primer

This assists it in making a surface to which paint can adhere. Leave it to dry up.

Step 4: Painting Precisely

Apply epoxy paint or special paints meant to paint stones. Apply in thin and even layers.

Step 5: Apply a protection topcoat

Water, heat, and stains must be guarded by a clear polyurethane or epoxy sealer.

How Long Does Painted Granite Last?

If done right, it might last 1–3 years with light use. But don’t expect it to perform like natural granite.

In kitchens where spills, knives, and hot pans are common, painted granite often starts breaking down within 6–12 months.

**Stat Check:
**According to a home renovation report by HomeAdvisor, painted countertops last half as long as new installations and are 3x more likely to require rework within 2 years.

Is Painting Granite Worth It?

If you're planning to sell soon or need a temporary upgrade, painting can work. But if you want a lasting, durable, and easy-to-clean surface, it’s better to replace it.

Ask Yourself:

Is this a short-term fix or a long-term investment?
Do I want a professional look, or am I okay with DIY results?
Can I live with touch-ups or repairs every year?

Better Alternative: Replace with New Granite in Winnipeg

Instead of painting, many Winnipeg homeowners now upgrade to newer granite styles—and it’s more affordable than it used to be.

Granite is one of the most durable and heat-resistant stones. It’s built to last over 20 years with minimal maintenance.

Here’s what you get with real granite:

A surface that’s scratch and heat-resistant
Natural patterns and colours that never go out of style
Boosted home value
Easy maintenance with long-term durability

Rockwood Stone Countertops—A Smarter Solution

At Rockwood Stone Countertops, we work with homeowners across Winnipeg to provide custom granite surfaces that match their style, space, and budget.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen or upgrading a bathroom, we offer:

A wide range of granite colours and finishes
Fast turnaround on installation
Local craftsmanship with years of experience

Final Thoughts

Painting granite might sound easy, but it’s more of a temporary fix than a lasting solution. If you want something that holds up in a busy kitchen or bath, a professionally installed granite slab is the smarter investment.

And if you're in Winnipeg, Rockwood Stone Countertops has everything you need—from material selection to expert installation.