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Are Prado cover plates paintable?

Yes, Prado cover plates are fully paintable. While we offer 6 standard finishes, we understand that achieving a truly hidden look often requires matching your specific backsplash material or custom cabinetry. Because outlet covers are high-touch surfaces, following a specific technical protocol is essential to ensure the finish remains durable and professional.

Professional Field Painting Guide

If you or your finisher choose to paint the cover plates on-site, surface preparation is the most important step. Standard latex wall paint applied directly to the surface may peel or show wear. For a factory-grade result, follow these technical specifications:

1. Surface Preparation & Primer

Begin by applying a light coat of a high-quality bonding primer. We recommend XIM Primer/Bonder or an equivalent product. It is critical to match the primer type to the topcoat (e.g., oil-based primer for oil-based paint) to ensure proper chemical adhesion.

2. Paint Selection

Because Prado Outlets are high-touch architectural elements, select a resilient paint type.

• Recommended: Lacquer-based, oil-based, or polyurethane-based paints.
• Alternative: If using water-based paints, you must apply a clear protective topcoat to improve resistance to scratching and daily handling.

3. Application Technique

For the smoothest finish, use a small spray gun (detail or cap spray type) equipped with a #3 tip.

• Settings: Set air pressure to approximately 60 psi.
• Distance: Hold the spray gun 10 inches from the cover plate.
• Angle: Position the gun at a 45-degree angle to ensure paint reaches the sidewalls of the plate without pooling on the face.
• Passes: Apply light, even coats using multiple quick passes rather than one heavy layer.

4. Finishing

Allow the paint to set briefly before rotating the cover plate to ensure all sides are evenly coated. If a water-based finish was used, apply the clear topcoat only after the base color has completely dried to lock in the finish.

Other Color Options

If you prefer not to paint in the field, you can choose from our standard finishes—white, black, sand, clay, espresso and graphite–which are designed to blend with common stone and tile tones. For larger projects (100+ units), we also offer custom factory RAL coloring.

To see how our existing finishes compare to your project’s palette before you start painting, you can order a Prado Unifit Finish Sample Kit.