Tired of looking at your dated bathroom tile, but don’t have the money to replace it? Get a fresh new look by learning how to paint it. You’ll save a few hundred dollars or more by painting tile instead of replacing it, and the finish project will give your entire bathroom a brand new appearance. When done properly, it will look as if you DID replace it!
The most important step in any project that involves painting is the prep work. So, before you can begin to paint over bathroom tile, you’ll need to thoroughly clean and prepare the old tile. This is a time consuming, but very necessary task. Taking the time to do it properly will help the new paint adhere and ensure that your work is worth the effort. For best results, give yourself an entire weekend to complete the job.
Materials needed to paint over bathroom tile:
- – TSP cleaner
- – Scrubbing brush
- – Clean cloths
- – Latex paint made for bathrooms or kitchens
- – Paint primer
- – Sandpaper (150 grit or higher)
- – Drop cloth
- – Paint roller
- – Paint tray
- – Paint brush
- – Painters tape
- – Shop vacuum
How to paint over bathroom tile
Step 1 – Clean- Clean the old tile using TSP (found at any paint store or home improvement store) and a scrubbing brush. TSP will remove dirt, grease, hairspray build up, and any other surface debris. Be sure to clean the grout thoroughly, too. Allow the tile to dry overnight.
Step 2 – Sand – The next step will require the most work. Sanding the tile before you paint it is absolutely essential. This will give the new paint something to adhere to, and although it is time consuming and messy, it must be done if you want your finished project to look nice and last any time at all. You can cut back on the labor time (and mess) if you have a drywall sander. This type of sander has a vacuum attached, which will suck up the mess as it’s made. If you can’t get one, you’ll need to use a shop vacuum to contain the dust. Lay down several dropcloths before you begin and cover cabinets, vanities, mirrors, and so on. This job will make a mess.
Step 3 – Clean – When you’re done sanding, you will need to remove the dusty dropcloths, wipe down all surfaces, and clean the tile. There can be no dust on the walls when you paint over tile.
Step 4 – Prep – Prep the entire room for painting. Learn how here.
Step 5 – Prime – Paint on the primer with a paint roller. I have had a lot of success with gray primer, which can be tinted from any regular white primer. Gray primer seems to help cover darker colors better than the standard white. Let the primer dry at least overnight, although it may take longer in some climates.
Step 6 – Paint – Now it’s time to paint over bathroom tile and give it that fresh new look! When you shop for paint, don’t skimp. Purchase high quality paint made specifically for bathrooms and kitchens, as they are washable, durable, and easy to care for. A gallon of this type of paint will cost around $30, but it’s worth every penny.
Allow the paint to dry overnight before deciding if you need to apply a second coat.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
How to paint over paneling
How to paint over laminate cabinets
How to paint over concrete
Source:
Personal experience
