You can tile over it but it requires a little prep work. I've seen it demonstrated it on the DIY network so you might want to search their site and see if they have a step-by-step on it.

I've never painted a laminate but I've seen it done for a short term update to sell a house. You have to use a special paint, make sure the laminate is roughed up with sandpaper so the paint will adhere and put some kind of clear coat over it to prevent scratching and chipping.

Replacing a counter top or tiling it would be better than painting it. I've never heard of any good stories of painting them.

I agree with mitchellw. I haven't studied it, but I suspect the cost of a new countertop may be less than the cost of the work you're thinking about and the result of going new will likely be much better.

I think tiling it would be a great idea. If would look nice and it would be heavy duty as well.

replacing the counter top will not ruin the backsplash

I am new to this site and am looking for new people to chat with over different things. My husband and I are very happily married and we are entering a new chapter in our life that I especially would LOVE to have someone to talk to about it and ask questions and get advice. We have entered the "lifestyle" and have had a few experiences but are hitting some road blocks. Ok I'm hitting road blocks! LOL Would love to find a couple to talk to about how it's going for them.

Thanks so much and I HOPE to hear from you!