How to Paint Bathroom Tiles

Refreshing your bathroom doesn’t always require a full-scale renovation. If your bathroom tiles are looking outdated or uninspiring, consider a more budget-friendly and impactful solution: painting them. 

Learning how to paint bathroom tiles allows you to personalise your space and achieve a fresh new look without the cost and hassle of replacing them entirely. 

This guide explores the process, from preparation to maintenance, ensuring your bathroom gets a fresh look that lasts.

Can Bathroom Tiles Be Painted?

As mentioned, you can give your bathroom tiles a stunning makeover with just a few coats of paint. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, those outdated or uninspiring tiles can be transformed into stylish features that completely revitalise your space. Whether you’re aiming to revamp the walls, floor, or even the shower area, understanding the process of painting bathroom tiles is key to achieving a successful and long-lasting result.

Advantages of Painting Bathroom Tiles

Painting tiles is a quick and cost-effective alternative to replacing them entirely. It’s perfect for those who want a significant revamp without committing to the time and expense of retiling. Additionally, it allows for customisation, making it easy to match your bathroom’s style.

Limitations and Considerations

While painting bathroom tiles is a great DIY solution, it does have some limitations. For instance, painted tiles may chip over time, especially in high-traffic or high-moisture areas like showers. Using waterproof paint for shower tiles can help mitigate this issue, but regular maintenance may still be required to keep the tiles looking their best.

What You Need to Know Before Painting Tiles

Before embarking on your bathroom tile-painting journey, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of the process. 

Here’s everything you need to know, from choosing the right type of tile to selecting the best paint and primer to ensure your project starts on the right foot.

1. Types of Tiles Suitable for Painting

First of all, not all tiles are created equal, and using the wrong materials can lead to peeling, chipping, or uneven finishes. 

For instance, not all shower tiles are ideal for painting. Similarly, textured or uneven tiles can be harder to paint and may not provide a uniform finish. Rather, smooth, non-porous surfaces like ceramic and porcelain tiles are the best candidates, as they allow for even application and long-lasting results. 

2. Selecting the Right Paint

It’s important to choose the right paint to guarantee its quality and moisture resistance. Tile or ceramic paint is specifically designed to adhere to tiles and resist moisture, making it an excellent choice for painting bathroom floor tiles or wall tiles. For wet areas like showers, oil-based enamel paint is a solid option.

3. Choosing the Primer

When it comes to painting over bathroom tiles, priming is a key step. An adhesion primer, such as Zinsser Bullseye 1-2-3, is essential for helping the paint stick to the surface and for creating a smooth base. This process is important to ensure the paint lasts, especially in areas that are frequently exposed to water.

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Bathroom Tiles

Painting bathroom tiles might seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, it’s a project anyone can tackle. Follow these steps to help you kickstart your project, from preparation to painting and sealing. 

1. Cleaning the Surface

A clean surface ensures the paint adheres properly. So, start by thoroughly cleaning the bathroom tiles. Use warm, soapy water to remove dirt and grease, and tackle mould or mildew with a fungicidal wash. And ensure all surfaces are completely dry before painting. 

2. Sanding the Tiles

To create a surface that the paint can grip, lightly sand the bathroom floor tiles. Begin with 80-grit sandpaper, followed by finer grit for a smooth finish. Make sure to reach the edges and corners for an even texture. Once done, remove all dust using a damp cloth.

3. Masking and Protecting the Area

To protect the surrounding areas, apply painter’s tape along the edges and fixtures. Also, use drop cloths to cover the bathroom tiles and countertops, shielding them from any paint splatters. Make sure the tape is pressed down securely to avoid any paint seeping underneath.

4. Applying Primer

Apply an adhesion primer evenly over the bathroom tiles using a brush for corners and a roller for large areas. Work in thin, even layers to avoid drips or streaks. Allow the primer to dry completely before painting, which typically takes 30 minutes to 3 hours.

5. Painting the Tiles

Using your chosen waterproof paint, apply thin, even coats on the shower tiles with brushes or rollers. Start from the top and work your way down to prevent drips. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly, typically 1-2 hours for water-based paints and 24 hours for oil-based. For most projects, two coats of paint are sufficient.

6. Optional Sealing Step

For added durability, especially in high-moisture areas in your bathroom, apply a clear polyurethane sealer once the paint is fully dry. Use a brush or roller to ensure even coverage, focusing on grout lines for extra protection. This step protects the painted tile surface from wear and tear.

7. Curing Time

Patience is key! Let the paint cure for at least 24 hours before exposing the bathroom tiles to water or heavy use. For best results, avoid cleaning or scrubbing the surface during this period to ensure a long-lasting and durable finish.

Tips for Best Results

Achieving a flawless, durable finish doesn’t have to be complicated. 

Here are three tips you can try for the best makeover results, avoid common pitfalls and maintain your painted bathroom walls and tiles for years to come:

• Ventilation Tips: Ensure proper ventilation while painting. Open windows, use fans and maintain airflow to reduce odours and speed up drying times.
• Maintenance Advice: Extend the lifespan of painted bathroom tiles by cleaning with non-abrasive products and avoiding harsh scrubbing. Regular maintenance prevents chipping and keeps your tiles looking fresh.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: To avoid mistakes, don’t skip sanding and priming, as they are crucial for adhesion. Apply thin, even coats instead of overloading brushes or rollers, and always allow the paint to fully cure to ensure durability.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your bathroom renovation project runs smoothly and the results remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Alternative Tile Refresh Options

If painting tiles doesn’t suit your style or needs, there are plenty of other ways to refresh your bathroom. From temporary solutions like tile stickers or long-term upgrades like professional resurfacing, these alternatives can help you achieve the look you want without picking up a paintbrush.

• Tile Stickers and Decals: These are temporary and easy-to-apply solutions that can instantly change your bathroom’s look. They’re perfect for renters or those seeking a non-permanent option.
• Re-Grouting or Sealing Grout Lines: Refreshing grout lines can dramatically enhance the appearance of tiles. Clean or re-grout to brighten the space, and use sealants for added protection.
• Professional Tile Resurfacing: For heavily damaged or high-traffic bathroom areas, professional tile resurfacing offers a durable and polished result. This option can also be a great way to update the look of your bathroom with a fresh coat of paint without the need for retiling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Bathroom Tiles