Can You Paint Bathroom Tile?
The short answer to the question is "yes". Painting tiles is certainly possible. But I know more information would be helpful, so let's continue. Another question you might have is "Why would you want to paint tile?" This question is easily answered in one sentence: It's a quick and easy way to redecorate your present tiles without the big mess and expense of removing the old tiles and retiling.
So now let's go over what you need to know if you're painting over tile.
Preparing the surface:
First make sure that you replace any cracked tiles or crumbling grout before you go any farther.
You will need to start your paint job with a thoroughly clean surface. In a bathroom, there are many different unwanted materials that may be coating your old tiles. Each of these must be removed.
- Dirt and soap scum. Clean this off using whatever household cleaner you usually use to clean your bathroom.
- Lime deposits. If you live in an area that has hard water, lime ( calcium oxide ) can easily build up. Many products are available in your grocery store that will easily remove this.
- Mold. This common fungus can be removed with a solution of 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water.
TSP ( trisodium phosphate ) is a very good all-purpose cleaner that may take care of all the above contaminants. Also, before painting tile, you must first remove the gloss, and TSP does that very easily.
Priming the surface:
Now you need to sand the surface of the tile to make it easier for your paint to adhere. Use a fine-grit paper, so as to get a smooth, unscratched surface. Then carefully clean off any dust with a lint-free cloth.
For priming, use a primer/bonder that is made for adhering to difficult surfaces. You can apply the undercoat evenly, using a brush with synthetic bristles, and let it dry. Don't overfill the brush, and be careful to avoid dripping. Sand again, and again remove the dust.
Painting:
Use an oil-based glossy enamel, which will give you a surface that is hard, durable, and washable. It should also protect the surface from mold and help prevent peeling.
Use a natural-bristle brush, and apply the paint the same way you did the primer. A second coat will give you a longer-lasting finish. Be sure to sand and wipe off the dust between each coat. The grout may be painted a different color with a tiny brush, if you want.
Once done, you should have an attractive new-looking finish. Painting your bathroom tiles has given them several more years of wear.
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