How to Color Ceramic Floor Tiles
An inexpensive way to change the color of ceramic tile floors is the use of primer and paint. This type of renovation process should be considered a temporary application and not a permanent solution for covering ugly tile. The painting process does not penetrate the surface of the tile to cause color change but instead adheres to the tile's surface. Areas of ceramic tile that are continually exposed to water---sinks, bathtubs, showers---and dampness should be replaced instead of painted. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tile cleaner
- Scrub brush
- 220-grit carbide sandpaper
- Vacuum with hand attachments
- Painter's tape
- Painter's drop cloth or paper
- Spray primer for ceramic tile
- Oil-based enamel paint
- Paint sprayer
Instructions
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1
Clean tile thoroughly. Aggressive scrubbing works to remove substances like wax, dirt, and oil that prevent paint from sticking properly to ceramic tile. Allow grout and tile to dry for 48 hours.
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2
Sand ceramic tile. Tile surface can be roughened by using 220-grit carbide sandpaper. Use a hand vacuum on the tile after sanding and wipe with a damp cloth to remove remaining debris.
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3
Maintain the original grout color by covering it with painter's tape. Another option is to paint the grout the same color as the tile by leaving the grout bare during tile painting.
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4
Mask all areas of the room that need protection from spraying. Use drop cloths, painter's paper, and painter's tape for masking. Cover walls, appliances, and fixtures that may be affected.
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5
Apply a spray primer designed for use on ceramic tile. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer and always work in well-ventilated areas.
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Use an oil-based paint over the primer (water based paints will peel over time and extended use). A sprayer will provide a quick application of paint. Professional paint sprayers can be rented and provide a clog-free spraying application.
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Tips & Warnings
Two thin coats of paint always look better than one thick coat.
