How to Paint Ceramic Tile Floor

Painting can cover ugly ceramic tile.

Say you don't like the color of your tile, but removing it simply isn't an option. While you could try to cover it with multiple floor rugs, a better option is to paint it. Painting ceramic floor tile can be done rather easily, providing the floor is in good condition. It will require the use of alkyd primer and paint. Latex paint will not be durable enough.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Abrasive cleanser Scrub brush 220-grit sandpaper Painter's tape Shellac-based or alkyd (oil-based) primer Denatured alcohol (if using shellac) Alkyd paint (high gloss or semi-gloss) Mineral spirits Paint roller Paintbrush Paint tray Clear floor finish (water-based urethane)

1. Clean the floor thoroughly with an abrasive cleanser and scrub brush. Take great care to get rid of any mildew on the floor, as it could compromise the surface after you're done.

2. Repair any cracked tiles and crumbling grout. If you need to regrout, do so before painting the tile. Regrouting will damage the paint.

3. If your tiles are very glossy, go over them with 220-grit sandpaper. This step is optional but can save you from having to repaint the floor again. You will need to clean the floor again to remove the dust of sanding afterward.

4. Tape over grout lines with blue painter's tape if you do not want to paint the grout. It's much easier to paint the entire floor one color, but the decision is yours. If you plan on painting the grout, you should let it dry for 48 hours before painting.

5. Tape over any areas you do not want painted. This includes wallpaper and trim.

6. Apply a coat of primer. You can use either a shellac-based primer or an alkyd (oil-based) primer.

7. Apply a second coat of primer after your first coat has dried thoroughly. Check the manufacturer's guidelines regarding dry times.

8. Lightly rub the primer with 220-grit sandpaper once it has dried thoroughly. Your goal is to remove any bumps that may have occurred and prepare the surface for your paint.

9. Paint your floor with a coat of semi-gloss or high-gloss alkyd paint. Use a brush to apply paint to corners and near walls before going over the floor with your roller. For best results, apply several thin coats until you get the look you want. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one.

10. Allow the paint to cure for several days before applying several coats of clear floor finish. A water-based urethane finish is a good choice for this step. Again, apply several thin coats rather than one thicker coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Use rollers with a low nap to prevent bubbles and give your floor a smooth coating. Buy or rent an electric hand sander if painting a large area. Sanding, although viewed as optional, will ensure the best possible results.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Painting Over Ceramic Tile
• Washington Post: Giving Ceramic Tile Color That Will Last
• How Do I Paint Ceramic Tile?