How To Whitewash Laminate Flooring Before And After

How to Whitewash Laminate Flooring: A Simple Guide

Whitewashing laminate flooring is a great way to give your home a fresh, updated look. It's a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours, and it doesn't require any special skills or tools. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you whitewash your laminate flooring:

Materials you will need:

White latex paint
Water
Bucket
Sponge or rag
Cheesecloth or a fine-grit sandpaper
Polyurethane finish (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare the floor: Clean the floor thoroughly with a damp mop and let it dry completely. Remove any furniture or obstacles from the floor.

2. Dilute the paint: In a bucket, mix 1 part white latex paint with 2 parts water. You can adjust the ratio of paint to water to achieve the desired opacity.

3. Test the paint: Apply a small amount of the diluted paint to an inconspicuous area of the floor and let it dry. This will help you determine the color and opacity of the whitewash.

4. Apply the diluted paint: Dip a sponge or rag into the diluted paint and apply it to the floor in long, even strokes. Work in small sections, and wipe off any excess paint as you go.

5. Let the first coat dry: Allow the first coat to dry completely for at least 2 hours.

6. Distress the paint: Once the first coat is dry, use a cheesecloth or a fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface of the floor. This will create a distressed look and help the whitewash adhere better.

7. Apply additional coats: If desired, you can apply additional coats of diluted paint to achieve a more opaque finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

8. Protect the finish: Once you are satisfied with the color and opacity of the whitewash, you can protect the finish by applying a polyurethane finish. This will help to seal the paint and protect it from wear and tear.

Tips:

For a more subtle whitewash, use more water and less paint.
For a more opaque whitewash, use less water and more paint.
Be sure to test the paint in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next.
Protect the finish by applying a polyurethane finish.