New countertops can cost $2,000–$8,000+ installed. If your existing countertops are structurally fine but cosmetically dated, refinishing offers a dramatic transformation at a fraction of the price.
Heritage Coatings offers three distinct countertop refinishing methods to Montana homeowners. Each has different strengths, so let’s compare them.
Option 1: Traditional Spray Refinishing
Traditional refinishing uses professional-grade spray coatings to create a smooth, solid-color finish over existing laminate, tile, or cultured marble countertops.
Best for: Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and light-use kitchen counters
The process:
- Surface is cleaned, sanded, and primed
- Multiple coats of bonding primer and topcoat are sprayed
- Clear protective topcoat is applied
- 24–48 hour cure time
- Most affordable option ($300–$600 per countertop area)
- Clean, uniform solid-color finish
- Wide color selection
- Fast turnaround (1 day)
- Less heat-resistant than epoxy or microcement
- Best suited for lighter-use surfaces
- Doesn’t replicate stone patterns
Option 2: Epoxy Countertop Coating
Epoxy countertop refinishing creates stunning faux-granite, marble, and stone effects using metallic and stone-pattern epoxy systems. This has become one of our most popular services for homeowners in Helena, Bozeman, and Missoula looking for a designer look on a budget.
Best for: Kitchens, bathroom vanities, bars, and any surface where you want a stone-look finish
The process:
- Surface preparation and priming
- Base coat application
- Decorative epoxy poured and manipulated to create stone patterns
- Multiple clear topcoats for protection
- 48–72 hour full cure
- Stunning faux granite, marble, and quartz looks
- Excellent heat resistance (up to 500°F with trivets)
- Seamless finish with no grout lines
- Extremely durable and chemical-resistant
- Costs 70–80% less than real stone countertops
- Higher cost than traditional refinishing ($600–$1,200)
- Longer cure time before use
- Requires experienced application for realistic patterns
Option 3: Microcement Countertops
Microcement (also called microconcrete) is a thin cementitious coating that creates a modern, matte, industrial-chic finish. It’s gaining popularity in Montana’s design-forward homes, particularly in Bozeman and Billings.
Best for: Modern kitchens, bathrooms, and homeowners wanting a concrete or minimalist aesthetic
The process:
- Surface cleaned and primed with bonding agent
- Multiple thin layers of microcement applied by hand
- Sanded between coats for smoothness
- Sealed with penetrating sealer and topcoat
- 48–72 hour cure
- Authentic concrete/industrial look without the weight
- Applied over existing countertops (no demo needed)
- Seamless, no grout lines
- Can be applied to backsplashes and walls for a unified look
- Highly customizable colors and textures
- Requires periodic resealing (every 1–2 years)
- Not as heat-resistant as epoxy
- More labor-intensive application ($800–$1,500)
- Matte finish shows water spots if not sealed properly
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Traditional | Epoxy | Microcement | |---|---|---|---| | Cost | $300–$600 | $600–$1,200 | $800–$1,500 | | Look | Solid color | Faux stone/marble | Concrete/industrial | | Durability | Good (5–10 yr) | Excellent (10–15 yr) | Very good (8–12 yr) | | Heat resistance | Moderate | High | Moderate | | Cure time | 24–48 hrs | 48–72 hrs | 48–72 hrs | | Maintenance | Low | Low | Periodic resealing | | Best rooms | Bath, laundry | Kitchen, bath, bar | Kitchen, bath, modern spaces |
Which Should You Choose?
On a tight budget? Traditional refinishing gives you a fresh, clean look for the lowest investment. Great for rental properties and quick updates before selling a home in Great Falls or Butte.
Want a wow factor? Epoxy delivers designer stone looks that guests won’t believe aren’t real granite. Our most-requested option across Montana.
Love modern design? Microcement creates that coveted concrete aesthetic without pouring actual concrete. Perfect for contemporary homes and remodels.
See the Possibilities
Heritage Coatings has refinished hundreds of countertops across Montana. We bring samples to every estimate so you can see and feel the finishes before committing.
Call (406) 438-4288 to schedule your free countertop consultation. We’ll help you choose the right option for your space, style, and budget.