How to paint bathroom tile?
Sources
Answer
Here are the key steps to paint bathroom tiles:
Prepare the Tiles
- Clean the tiles thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner or sugar soap to remove any grime, soap scum or oil134. Scrub the grout lines with an old toothbrush.
- Sand the tiles with 120-grit sandpaper to remove the glossy finish and create a "key" for the paint to adhere to123. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.
- Repair any cracked or damaged tiles using caulk or grout filler23. Allow repairs to fully dry.
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Mask off any areas you don't want painted using painter's tape4.5
Apply the Primer
- Use a primer specifically made for tiles, such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Owatrol E.S.P3. These help the paint bind to the tile surface.
- Apply two thin, even coats of primer using a roller, allowing the recommended drying time between coats12. Use a brush to cut in along edges and grout lines.
Paint the Tiles
- Use a high-quality tile paint, such as an epoxy or two-part paint1. These are more durable and moisture-resistant than regular paints.
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Apply up to three thin, even coats of paint using a roller, allowing each coat to fully dry1. Use a brush for edges and grout lines.5
- For a smooth finish, use a short-nap roller sleeve34.
- Allow the final coat to cure for the time recommended by the paint manufacturer before using the bathroom.
Seal the Tiles
- Apply a polyurethane sealer over the paint to protect the surface14. This is especially important in wet areas.
- Caulk around fixtures and edges with a silicone sealant to prevent moisture from getting behind the paint4.
References
1. How to Paint Bathroom Tile the Right Way - Martha Stewart2. How to Paint Tiles - The Home Depot3. Painting Bathroom Tiles - The Ultimate Guide - Painters World4. How to paint your bathroom tiles - Rust-oleum5. How to Paint Bathroom Tiles the Right Way - YouTube
Author: This Old House
Key insights
- The contrast of the white kitchen cabinets and countertops creates a beautiful and gorgeous kitchen aesthetic.
- 🧼 Proper preparation, like cleaning and taping off edges, is essential before painting tile to ensure a successful outcome.
- The little trick of using a knife to smooth out edges ensures that the paint will not bleed underneath the tape.
- The preparation process for painting tile involves roughing up the surface for better adhesion, including hand-painting curved edges.
- Part B is tough, durable, and comes in a high gloss for application.
- Using a respirator is essential when working with strong-smelling paint to protect your health.