Painting particle boards is a great way of refurbishing them and is much cheaper than buying new furniture. If you are noticing spots, cracks, or chips on your particle board furniture, it’s time to give them a fresh coat of paint.
Particle boards are not as durable as wood. Therefore, you need to use paint that’ll not only make them aesthetically pleasing but also shield the boards from exterior damage.
It’s easy to get confused while choosing a paint given the highly saturated paint market. The best paint for particle board are ones that’ll provide proper moisture, heat, and scuff resistance.
If you’re struggling to select paint, don’t worry. We’ve discussed everything you need to know including the top products and a guide on painting your particle boards. So, without further ado let’s begin.
Quick Summary On Best Paint For Particle Board
Best Latex Paint For Particle Boards: Rust-Oleum 240285 Painter’s Touch Paint
“Exceptional latex paint that will shield your particle boards from moisture, humidity, and heat damage.”
Best Matte Paint For Particle Boards: Rust-Oleum 285140 Ultra Matte Paint
“ This high-coverage, low-odor, and easy application acrylic paint is available in over ten colors to transform your particle boards with its velvety matte finish.”
Best Pigmented Paint For Particle Boards: FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint
“Make your particle board furniture the talk of the town using this remarkable acrylic paint with superior pigmented formula.”
Best Exterior Paint For Particle Boards: Majic PAINTS Interior/Exterior Satin Paint
“Enjoy outstanding durability with this indoor outdoor paint. Its superior heat and moisture protection ensure excellent color retention on your outdoor particle board furniture.“
Best Chalkboard Paint For Particle Boards: Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint
“Rejuvenate your particle boards into chalkboards with this stunning chalkboard paint that’s easily cleanable for keeping your furniture looking as fresh as new.”
Comparison Chart for Top 5 Paint For Particle Board
Image | Name | Paint Type | Finish | Price |
  | Rust-Oleum 240285 Painter’s Touch Paint | Latex | Satin | |
  | Rust-Oleum 285140 Ultra Matte Paint | Acrylic | Ultra Matte | |
  | FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint | Acrylic | Ultra Matte | |
  | Majic PAINTS Interior/Exterior Paint | Enamel | Satin | |
  | Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint | Acrylic | Matte |
Best Paint For Particle Board Review
1. Rust-Oleum 240285 Painter’s Touch Paint
While talking about particle board paint, the first one that comes to mind is the Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Latex Paint.
You can apply this multi-purpose paint to wood, particle board, ceramic, plaster, metal, and many more surfaces. This premium latex paint is one of the best paint for particle board stairs, cabinets, and furniture.
What’s more, this paint comes with an outstanding chip-resistant formula that keeps the paint immaculate for years making it perfect for particle board furniture.
Particle boards are more vulnerable to moisture and humidity than regular wood and therefore require paint that’ll shield the boards from moisture. Otherwise, your furniture will get moldy and the paint will peel off.
But not with Rust Oleum’s latex paint. This latex paint is water-based and provides exceptional water resistance that makes it one of the best waterproof paint for particle board.
Moreover, one can of paint allows you to paint over a 120 sq ft area. As a result, you can refurbish multiple pieces of particle board furniture with just one gallon of paint.
That’s not all, exposure to sun or cooking fumes forms spots and stains on the boards. You can hide all of these imperfections with the superior coverage of this paint.
Pros
- Exceptional water-based latex paint
- Superior moisture-resistant finish
- Effectively hides imperfection
- Effortless cleanup
- Excellent surface coverage
Cons
- Requires extensive prep work
Product Speciality
The best part of this color is the superior moisture and heat resistance. That along with the water-based latex formula ensures effortless application with a flawless finish to give a new life to your particle board furniture.
2. Rust-Oleum 285140 Ultra Matte Paint
Glossy finishes add a contemporary look to your particle boards whereas matte finishes give a clean sophisticated ambiance. If you’re a fan of the second aesthetic, Rust-Oleum 285140 Ultra Matte Paint will be perfect for you.
You get to choose from more than ten chic colors of this acrylic paint. All of them will give you a sleek matte finish. In addition, you can apply it on wood, pressed wood, ceramic, and metal cabinets without worrying about adhesion capacity.
Painting particle board dressers, cabinets, and outdoor or indoor furniture are effortless with this premium quality paint. For ensuring enhanced durability, you will need to add a top coat after painting.
Want to add an edgier distressed look to your particle boards? Sand the painted surface at the last step. What’s more, this exceptional formula provides excellent coverage with only one coat. Therefore, you can cover more than 150 sq ft of the surface with one can of paint.
When the paint has dried, you can easily clean up the surface with only soap and water. So, transform your particle board furniture with the trendy yet vintage colors of the Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Paint range.
Pros
- Smooth matte finish
- Minimal chemical formula
- Sophisticated distressed look
- High surface coverage
- Cleanable with soap & water
Cons
- Needs a top coat for durability
Product Speciality
All around, if you prefer a distressed antique look, this is the paint for you. Over 10 colors with premium coverage and an ultra-matte finish will make your particle board furniture the centerpiece of your home.
3. FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint
If you are an amateur in painting and don’t want to choose a paint that will require massive prep work, go for the FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint. This water-based acrylic paint offers effortless application. So, anyone can transform their particle boards into pieces of art.
You don’t need to sand or prime the surface for painting. Just clean the boards and begin painting. What’s more, once done you can clean up the mess with only soap and water.
Another noteworthy feature of this paint is its outstanding coverage. The incredibly rich pigmented paint allows you to cover up any imperfections and add a new vibrant life to the boards.
Turn your furniture into your canvas. Because you get to choose from a wide color palette of beautiful shades. All of the paints are extremely blendable and leave a smooth matte finish.
That’s not all, this paint dries within minutes. As a result, you can paint entire projects within a few hours and apply as many coats as you like without having to wait for hours or days.
Lastly, you can apply this paint to your particle boards without worrying about harmful toxins. Manufacturers ensure that it is completely free of any toxic chemicals.
Pros
- Safe non-toxic formula
- Provides sleek matte finish
- Effortless layering and distressing
- Available in versatile colors
- Extremely pigmented formula
Cons
- Not available in large sizes
Product Speciality
Enjoy the distressed chic aesthetic with one of the best chalk paints available on the market. Even if you are an amateur at painting you’ll be able to achieve excellent results with this paint.
4. Majic PAINTS Interior/Exterior Paint
Looking for a paint that can be used on outdoor particle board furniture too? Then, check out the Majic PAINTS Interior/Exterior Paint.
The water-based enamel paint includes all the benefits of oil-based paints without having harmful chemicals. However, the best thing about this paint is that it can adhere to particle boards efficiently and provide the ultimate durability. So, you can enjoy the vibrant satin finish for a long time.
Moreover, you can directly apply this color to the boards. There is no need for priming or sanding the boards. This paint can effectively cover the surface with its smooth self-leveling formula.
Once the paint dries, you get to enjoy a smooth vibrant color. This is excellent for outdoor usage as it’s completely scratch-resistant. No matter how much traffic it has to go through, the color will stay intact.
Sun tends to fade paint color faster. But not with this paint. It has superior color retention capability. As a result, all the colors will stay vibrant on your particle boards for years.
On top of that, the advanced formula insulates the surface from heat damage and makes it the best exterior paint for particle board.
Pros
- Outstanding color retention
- Immaculate satin finish
- Suitable with versatile surfaces
- Shields from sun damage
- Excellent scratch resistance
Cons
- Takes a long time to dry
Product Speciality
This versatile color comes in more than ten colors to match all your color palettes. Not only that, its premium durability makes your outdoor particle board furniture shine even in the harshest weather.
5. Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint
Next, we have a brand that has been producing top-quality paints for over 75 years. It’s none other than the Krylon Inc and their Krylon K05223000 Chalkboard Paint is no exception to the legacy.
This chalkboard paint on particle boards can turn your particle boards into actual chalkboards. Their state-of-the-art acrylic formula gives the painted surface a smooth slate-like finish.
What’s more, you can actually write on the painted board with chalk. So, write on the particle board cabinets what’s stored in them to eliminate the hassle of looking for stuff for hours.
In addition, the slate-like finish protects the particle board from heat and humidity. As a result, the paint stays intact without premature chipping or fading.
Moreover, you get to choose from navy blue and charcoal black. Both of the colors come with a self-leveling feature so you get to enjoy a stunning smooth finish. In addition, cover up to 20 sq ft of surface with this paint.
If you’re not a fan of glossy paints, this matte paint will be perfect for you. This paint formula is effortless to apply and you will get a brush stroke-free finish every time.
Pros
- Enjoy top-notch durability
- Formulated with low VOC
- Eye-catching chalkboard finish
- Provides outstanding coverage
- Suitable for several surfaces
Cons
- Long cure time
Product Speciality
Turn your particle board furniture into a statement piece with this chalkboard paint. With this, you get to enjoy excellent coverage along with durability for many years to come.
How To Choose Best Paint For Particle Board?
Painting is an affordable way to refurbish your particle board furniture. However, choosing the wrong paint can end up doing more damage than good.
Check out our buying guide to know about the crucial factors you need to keep in mind to choose the best type of paint for particle board.
1. Paint Type
Oil-based paint for particle boards is preferred by professionals. They adhere better to wood, MDF, plywood, and other types of pressed woods.
However, oil paints are not easy to deal with and they contain harmful VOCs. Hence, you can go for water-based acrylic and latex paints. These paints are available in a myriad of vibrant colors and ensure effortless application.
But keep in mind that to use water-based paint, you’ll need to first prime and seal the particle board with a good-quality oil-based primer.
2. Finish
Glossy finishes dry with a hard durable finish. They attract less dirt and dust. Moreover, you can easily wipe them clean using soap and water.
But not everyone likes the glare of glossy finishes. A middle ground can be semi-gloss or satin finishes which are considered the best paint finish for particle boards. With them, you get to relish the blessings of glossy finish without the blinding shine.
3. Adhesion
You don’t want to apply paint that’ll chip off in a few months. Therefore, look for paint that will last for at least a few years.
Adhesion plays a major role in making sure the paint stays intact for a long time. So, make sure the paint you are buying can adhere properly to the particle boards.
Also, apply oil-based primers and paint sealers to increase both the adhesion capability and longevity of the paint. Lastly, use good-quality paints for enhanced coverage, fade and scuff resistance.
4. Water-Resistance
If you want to paint particle board cabinets in the kitchen, the primary feature you need to ensure is moisture resistance. This is also important if your particle board furniture is kept outdoors.
Particle boards can easily absorb moisture and get mold damage when they come in contact with moisture. Also, both outdoor and kitchen furniture require protection from heat.
Hence, choose paints that provide good moisture as well as heat resistance capability. Using heat and water-proof paint is crucial for elongating the lifespan of your particle board furniture.
5. Drying Time
If a paint takes a long time to dry, it faces a higher risk of getting scratched or chipped. Water-based paints take 30 minutes to an hour to dry. So, you can apply several coats of paint in one day.
However, oil-based paints take about 6 to 24 hours to dry properly. Therefore, it will be difficult to finish the project in one day.
How To Paint A Particle Board?
Painting or repainting particle board furniture can change the ambiance of any room. With the right tools and guidance, you can freshen up your particle boards all by yourself.
We’ve explained the entire painting process in a step-by-step manner to make sure you achieve the best results.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before starting, gather all the required supplies you’ll need for painting the particle boards. For starters, you’ll need drop cloths, tack cloths, primer, paint tray, paint brush, wood filler, 120-grit sandpaper, and good quality paint.
In addition, get yourself a pair of rubber gloves, goggles, and a ventilation mask for safety.
Step 2: Prepare The Work Space
Conduct the paint job outside or open doors and windows to ensure good ventilation into the room. Good airflow allows the paint to dry quicker and saves you from toxic paint fumes.
Place drop cloths under or around the particle board furniture to avoid getting paint on the floor. You can also use newspapers or cardboard boxes if you don’t want to spend money on drop cloths.
Step 3: Clean The Particle Boards
Painting on a dirty particle board will result in flaky paint. Use a foam brush and dry cloth to take off the dirt and dust effectively. If your particle boards have stubborn stains or grease, use a damp cloth to clean them properly.
Step 4: Repair The Boards
Particle boards are not as durable as regular wood furniture. As a result, they are prone to crack, chip, or get other kinds of damage more easily. Before painting them, you should repair the damages to achieve better results.
Apply wood filler to the damaged areas and smooth them over with a putty knife. Allow the filler to dry overnight and then sand the area to get the smoothest paint surface.
Step 5: Sand The Particle Boards
Most particle boards have a glossy laminated film over them. The paint will not stick to this laminated coat effectively. Hence, it’s crucial to sand the laminated particleboard using medium-grit sandpaper before painting.
Be careful while sanding the boards as they are softer and more prone to cracking. Wipe the boards with a tack cloth to remove the sanding dust.
Step 6: Apply Primer
Primer is indispensable to make sure the paint sticks properly to the particle boards. Get a high-quality oil-based primer and apply the primer all over the particle boards. Avoid water-based primers as they can seep into the particle boards and make them swell up.
Make sure to apply several even coats of primer and allow it to dry for the recommended time. If possible, wait overnight before applying paint.
Step 7: Apply Paint
You can apply latex, acrylic, or enamel paint on particle boards. Stir the paint to make sure everything is mixed and pour out some of the paint into a paint tray.
Use a foam brush or wide bristle brush to avoid getting brush strokes on the board. Apply the paint in long strokes starting at the bottom of the furniture.
Depending on what color you are applying you may need two to five coats. Also, you’ll need to wait about 2-4 hours before applying the second coat.
Step 8: Cure The Paint
Once you are happy with the color of your particle boards, allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours. Check the paint for the exact recommended cure time. You need to let the paint cure sufficiently so that it can withstand scuffing, scratching, and everyday damages.
How To Paint Particle Board To Look Like Wood?
You can make your particle board furniture look exactly like wooden furniture. The faux wooden finish also makes them look more rustic and edgy. If that is the vibe you’re going for, check out our tips for turning your particle boards into chic wooden decor.
- Gather all the similar supplies mentioned in the previous section. The most important tools for this process are sandpaper, a two-inch paint brush, a good-quality wood primer, and a brown glaze that can adhere well to the particle board surface.
- Then follow all the steps for preparing the particle boards for paint. Start by cleaning the boards properly and check them for any dents or damage. Fill the dents with wood filler.
- If the particle boards have old paint on them, it’s a good idea to strip the paint. Apply a high-quality paint stripper and get rid of the old paint.
- Sand the particle boards with medium-grit sandpaper to take off the lamination and increase surface adhesion. Moreover, sanding will make the uneven surface smooth.
- Then, spread a wood primer all over the particle boards. After the first coat dries, lay a second coat.
- Once the primer is fully dry, dip the paintbrush into the brown glaze and apply random strokes on one side of the particle board furniture.
- Now drag the two-inch paint brush vertically through the glaze. Make sure to overlap each line to avoid gaps. Also, wipe off excess glaze from the brush after each stroke.
- If you want to accentuate the woodlike texture, tap the paintbrush bristles lightly over the glaze.
- Make sure to apply thin even coats of the glaze. Repeat the vertical strokes on each side of the furniture and allow each side to dry completely.
- Repeat these steps until you are satisfied with the wooden finish. At last, let the particle boards dry for at least 24 hours and enjoy your chic painted wooden particle boards.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
1. Is Acrylic Paint Good For Particle Board?
Acrylic paint can adhere to plastic, plywood, metal, wood, and particle board. So, yes acrylic paint is good for particle boards. But you’ll need to apply an acrylic sealer to increase the longevity of the paint.
2. Can I Paint Un-laminated Particle Board?
Yes, you can paint an un-laminated particle board. However, you’ll need to sand and prime the boards properly before painting.
3. Can You Paint Directly On Particle Board?
You can paint directly on a particle board. But the paint will not last for long. For ensuring the durability of the paint job, you need to prime the particle boards.
4. Can You Paint Furniture Made Out Of Particle Board?
Of course, you can paint particle board furniture. There are many kinds of paints specifically made for particle boards. You only need to choose the right one and follow the proper steps to paint your particle board furniture.
5. Can White Particle Board Be Painted?
White particle board can be painted by following some additional steps. You’ll need to properly sand and prime the particle board before applying paint.
6. What Kind Of Paint Can I Use On Particle Board?
Oil-based paints work best for particle boards. However, if you prime the board using oil-based primer, you can use acrylic paint on them.
7. Does Paint Stick To Particle Board?
Paint will stick better to particle board if it has been primed. Also, make sure to use oil-based primers as water-based primers will swell the particle board and destroy its shape.
8. Do You Need To Sand Particle Board Before Painting?
If the particle board is not laminated, you can paint without sanding. But it’s always better to sand the particle board as sanding removes uneven surfaces and spots.
Final Word
If you want to elevate the look of your home in an affordable way, painting your particle board furniture is an amazing option. Painting also increases the durability of particle boards and keeps them damage-free for longer.
But not all paint adheres well to particle boards. Therefore, selecting the best paint for particle board can be somewhat confusing. Hopefully, our elaborate discussion has removed all your doubts and given you a precise conception of which paint you need to buy for your particle board furniture.
So, get yourself the suitable tub of paint and revive the worn-out particle board furniture to give your home a bright new appearance within an affordable budget.
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