Bathroom makeover with tile paint – a practical guide

Changing tiles is a complicated task. It requires time-consuming work, large expenses and most often the help of a specialist with the right equipment. However, it is worth knowing that it is not the only way to transform your bathroom. You can do it much faster and easier with special tile paints. When will they work best? How should you paint tiles? You will learn this from our new guide.

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What type of paint is suitable for tiles?

The coatings made with tile paints look great and are resistant to moisture, abrasion and washing. Epoxy and acrylic paints are mainly used to paint tiles. The former are valued for their resistance to moisture, aggressive substances and extreme temperatures. Resin paints are more resistant to abrasion, making them well suited for painting floor tiles.

Painting tiles in the bathroom or kitchen is primarily a way to quickly change the character of these rooms. It does not require breaking off old tiles and installing new ones, which significantly improves the renovation. Their application is also so easy that even people without specialist skills can handle it without any problems. The financial aspect is also of great importance. Buying paint is an expense that is many times lower than hiring a tiler and buying tiles with all the materials necessary for their installation.

Which tiles are suitable for repainting?

Before buying paint, it is worth taking a close look at your bathroom and making sure that the tiles are suitable for painting. Damaged or badly scratched tiles may need replacing. Painting can only cover up shallow scratches, but will not mask serious damage. In such a case, it is better to decide to completely replace the tiles and avoid any potential later problems. Not all tiles have a surface suitable for painting. Smooth and glossy tiles that are slippery and lack texture may require additional preparation for the paint to adhere to them. However, matte tiles that have natural, good adhesion do not require this.

Proper preparation of tile surfaces for painting

Cleaning and preparing the surface for painting will ensure that the paint will adhere well and the painted tiles will look aesthetically pleasing for a long time. This process should consist of the following steps:

• cleaning tiles : before painting, tiles should be thoroughly washed and degreased. For this purpose, it is best to use dedicated degreasing agents;
• priming tiles : the surface of most ceramic tiles is smooth, which can make it difficult for paint to adhere. Therefore, before painting, it is worth using a special primer that will increase the adhesion of the paint to the tiles. When applying the primer, remember to thoroughly cover the joints with it. Sometimes it is enough to matt the tiles with sandpaper;
• securing the bathroom : before starting painting, carefully secure bathroom faucets , cabins, mirrors and other bathroom equipment using foil and masking tape;
• removing old sanitary silicone : silicone left behind may make the paint application difficult and the effect unsatisfactory.

Painting tiles – step by step

Painting tiles is not difficult, but it does require patience and care. Before you start painting, prepare all the necessary tools. It is best to use a roller to paint wall tiles, and a brush for harder-to-reach places. The painting itself should start from the edges of the tiles, and then move to the center. Try to spread the paint evenly - so as to avoid streaks and unevenness. On floor tiles, it is worth applying an additional layer of paint, which will provide greater resistance to abrasion.

After applying the first coat of paint, you should wait about 24 hours before applying another coat. To achieve an even effect, it is usually necessary to apply two or three coats. The paint will achieve full resistance to moisture and scrubbing after a few weeks. After painting, it is worth applying a layer of clear varnish. It will not only protect the surface from damage and make cleaning easier, but it will also give it a matte or satin finish.

As you can see, painting tiles is a great way to quickly and cheaply transform your bathroom. With the right paint and care, you can achieve truly stunning results.

Check out the bathroom equipment at the Onninen wholesaler