Instructions on How to Paint Ceramic Tiles

Paint bathroom tile with any design you like.

Tile in the bath, shower or around a fireplace are some of the most abused surfaces in your home. They get grungy and look old while the rest of the house still looks brand new. Tearing out the tile from your bath or shower floors and walls and replacing the tile is a costly and messy job. New tile is also very expensive. You can save yourself a lot of hassle and expense by first painting the tile. You will be out very little money and best of all, if you don't like the results you can still undertake the big project of replacing the tile.

Things You'll Need

• Trisodium phosphate
• Rags
• Sandpaper
• Palm sander
• Primer
• Paintbrush
• Paint
• Small artist's brush
• Gold paint
• Urethane topcoat

Instructions

1. Remove the grime from the tile's surface with trisodium phosphate (TSP.) Dip the rag into TSP. Scrub the tile to remove the residue on the surface. TSP will also dull the shine on the tile, better preparing it for paint.

2. Sand the tiles with fine grit sandpaper. Sanding creates texture that will allow the primer to adhere firmly to the surface of the tile. Use a palm sander on large areas to make the job quicker and the sanding job more evenly textured. Wipe away all sanding dust with a damp rag.

3. Prime the tiles with oil-based primer. Oil-based primer will best withstand exposure to moisture from the shower. Apply the primer with a good quality brush, working from the top to the bottom of the tile. Do not feather the paint brush at the end of each stroke. Let the primer dry.

4. Paint the tiles with any color oil-based paint. Apply the paint in the same way that you applied the primer. Apply 2 to 3 thin coats of paint, allowing each to dry completely before applying another. Multiple thin coats of paint will be more durable than one thick coat.

5. Apply a urethane topcoat. Urethane will protect the tiles from water damage and scratching. Use a clean brush to apply the topcoat. Allow the topcoat to dry. Let the paint job cure for 7 days before heavy use.

Tips & Warnings

• Oil-based paint can take as long as 30 days to completely cure. During the first month after painting your tile, take extra precautions to prevent scratches. Do not walk on the tile with shoes and wipe away any standing water or moisture with a soft cloth.

References

• HousePaintingInfo.com: Painting Ceramic Tiles