Can I paint ceramic tiles?
One of the most frequently asked questions for bathroom or kitchen DIY “Can I paint ceramic tiles?” Short answer Yes! Painting your ceramic tiles is not only easy, but it can also be a quick and relatively affordable way to update your kitchen or bathroom tiles without breaking the bank.
In fact, if you don't want to put in the time, effort or expense of paying a professional to remove your existing tiles, resurface the walls and put in a new design or style. A little elbow grease and a fresh coat of paint can take your home from drab to fabulous in an instant.
Updating an outdated design in your new home is a great way to make your decor bearable when planning a remodel or even jump on a new design trend. Be careful, if you rent your property, your landlord may have strict rules about what kind of updates and DIY work you can do. If in doubt, always check before starting a new project.
Of course, while painting your tiles is quick, easy, and much cheaper than replacing them, you may see some wear and tear after a few years. If you don’t want to bother with repainting, avoid areas that get a lot of wear and tear, such as the tile floor, countertops, and shower surrounds. However, one person’s vintage is another’s vintage, so it really comes down to personal taste.
How to paint ceramic tiles: step by step
1. Prepare your tiles
To give your paint the best chance of adhesion, you need to make sure your tiles are completely prepped. First, clean the tile thoroughly with an abrasive bathroom cleaner and scourer. Once you’ve removed any soap scum and residue, wipe it down with a clean, wet sponge and leave to dry.
Next, lightly sand your tile with fine sandpaper (180-220 grit) to remove the glaze coating. You can do this by hand, but if you have an orbital sander, the job will be much quicker and easier. Once removed, wipe with a clean wet sponge and let dry.
2. Paint your ceramic tiles
You are now ready to paint. Before you begin, make sure that all surrounding areas are properly protected with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. If you are painting tiles around a specific area, such as a door or painted wall area, use painters tape to divide the area and ensure that your tile paint does not accidentally fall on adjacent areas.
There are several types of paint that you can use on ceramic tiles, but epoxy paint offers a finish that is both durable and water-resistant. Simply choose your color and then follow the instructions on the can. Typically, you will need to apply two coats of epoxy paint for the best results.
Important Tip: When painting ceramic tiles, be sure to allow full drying time between coats and keep the room well ventilated to reduce the possibility of drips, smears or mistakes.
