Tools and Materials
Things to Consider
- Type of Paint: Painting the tiles on your floor and walls requires different types of paint. Water-based paints are best used for walls, whereas epoxy-based paints are to be used for floor tiles where you can prioritize durability and moisture resistance.
- Grout Lines: For floor tiles or wall tiles, you would have to paint over grout lines. Consider if this is something you want to do. Painted grout can be more prone to chipping or peeling over time, especially in high-traffic areas like floors. This means potential touch-ups and repainting down the line. If you want your grout lines to be visible, you might have to think about re-grouting later, which is a time-consuming process.
- Occupies Space and Time: While painting only takes a few hours, you’ll need to wait for the paint on the tiles to fully dry before using the space. It is recommended to allow each coat to dry for at least 4 hours and stay off the tiles for at least 24 to 48 hours after you apply the final coat.
- Effectiveness: Keep in mind that painted tiles are not as durable and long-lasting as the original tile. They typically work well for 3–5 years, after which you’ll have to consider repainting your bathroom tiles or kitchen tiles.
Preparing the Surface
Dust, debris, mold and mildew can settle on tiles if they’re not cleaned regularly. Knowing how to clean your walls and floor tiles before you paint is the only way you can make sure the process goes well. Here's how:
- For floors, run a vacuum over to get rid of loose dirt and debris. Use warm water and mild dish soap to wash and scrub your floors with a soft-bristled brush.
- Wipe your walls down with a damp cloth and allow them to dry.
- Use an all-purpose cleaner, but make sure it is compatible with your tiles. Try it on a hidden or small area first to be sure. Follow the instructions on the label to clean your tiles.
- To clean the grout, you will need to first make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the grout lines. If you’re using your hands, wear cleaning gloves.
- Then, in a spray bottle, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Spray it over the baking soda paste and you’ll notice a bubbling reaction. Once the bubbling stops, use a brush to scrub the build-up. Rinse with warm water.
Tips to Help
- Scrub gently and use a cleaner and brush that’s not abrasive.
- If your tiles have cracks or are chipped, use a caulking gun to caulk and fill in the gaps.
- Worn-out grout would have to be removed and reapplied. Our comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to tackle this project yourself.
Sanding and Priming
Sanding your tiles and walls gets rid of imperfections and smooths out rough surfaces, while priming helps the paint adhere to the surface by creating rough ridges. Both of these steps will give you a smooth finish when painting bathroom tiles or kitchen tiles. Here’s how to sand and prime your tiles:
- Use a 240-grit sandpaper and lightly sand the surface.
- Wipe your tiles with a damp cloth to clean off the sanding dust.
- Before applying primer, make sure that you use painters tape for the baseboards where the tile meets the floor and any other fixtures that need to be protected.
- Alternatively, if you’re painting your walls, cover your floors. Use a plastic sheet and secure its ends with painters tape.
- To apply the primer, you’ll need a foam roller and a paintbrush.
- Use the paintbrush to cut-in around the corners and the roller for full coverage.
- Allow the primer to dry completely for 2 to 3 hours to apply a second coat. Follow the instructions on your primer for drying time after the final coat.
- To help the paint adhere, use sandpaper and lightly sand the primed surface which creates a slight texture for the paint to grip onto, ensuring a stronger bond.
- Make sure to clean the sand dust so for smooth application of the paint.
Tips That Work
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from priming chemicals.
- Check for compatibility. Primers are specifically designed for the type of surface you are applying it over.
- Dampen your roller or paintbrush with water but do so just before applying primer for uniform absorption.
Applying Paint
- With a damp cloth, clean any dust or debris that may have accumulated over time.
- Using painters tape is crucial. Before applying tape, use a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust from the area. This ensures a stronger bond with the tape.
- Let the area dry completely. As you apply the tape, use your fingers or a putty knife to secure it firmly. To further prevent the paint from bleeding under the tape, run a damp cloth over the edges.
- Use a brush for the corners and simply roll your paint all over the tiles with the roller. Make sure you apply a thin coat and even application.
- Let the paint dry for at least 4 to 8 hours before applying a second coat. After you apply the second coat, allow the paint to dry for 24 to 48 hours.
- Once the paint is dry, carefully peel the tape slowly and at an angle to avoid pulling up any paint with it.
- If you’re looking to improve the look of your tiles, use a stencil to create patterns and designs of your liking. Start stenciling only after the paint has dried.
- Place the stencil in the center of your tile and secure it in place with painters tape.
- Use a paint roller and apply a thin coat of paint over the stencil. Allow it to dry and consider applying a final coat of waterproof sealant.
- Be careful while removing the painters tape and the stencil after you’re done.
- Leave the paint to dry for a few days before using the room again.
Tips That Work
- When choosing tile paint for your kitchen or bathroom, make sure it’s compatible with the tile material and complements your room’s interiors.
- Do not compromise on the quality of brushes, rollers and painters tape. Opt for synthetic bristles that work well with tile-specific paints. Choose a small, angled brush for detailed work around fixtures and a dense, short-nap roller for smooth application on larger tile surfaces.
- Since tiles are often textured, prioritize strong adhesion for your painters tape.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific tape you’re using. Allowing the painters tape to stay on for more than the required time can leave behind adhesive residue and cause the paint to peel.
- For tiles, always start at the far end of the room and move towards the door so you don't paint yourself into a corner.
- Make sure that a very thin coat is applied, or the paint will bleed or ripple.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask.
Caution
Wear a respirator to protect yourself from inhaling harmful paint fumes, especially if you suffer from any lung problems. It is always best to read and follow any safety instructions on the manufacturer’s label of the paint and primer you use.
Applying Sealant
A fresh coat of paint elevates the look of your floor tiles and walls. To make sure it stays that way, apply a sealant. Applying a coat of sealant will actually double the lifespan of your tiles and walls by preventing them from water damage and wear and tear. It will also make cleaning and maintenance easier.
- Evenly coat a sponge with sealant and liberally apply it over the tiles and walls.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s label of the sealant you use and allow it to dry as required before you can finally use the room freely.
Tips That Work
- Use a sealant specifically designed for the type of tiles you have. Check the same for your walls.
- Always do a test patch in a corner just to be sure.