Turn Kitchen Tiles from Bleh to Brilliant with Paint

Is your kitchen letting you down with its dull, dated tiles? A full kitchen renovation can be costly and time-consuming, but painting tiles can give them a whole new look for a fraction of the price. With the right prep and paint products, even amateur DIYers can achieve dramatic, brilliant results.

Read on to learn everything you need to know to turn your bleh tiles into a stunning kitchen backdrop.

Things to Know Before Starting Your Tile Paint Project

While most tile types can be painted, not all paints work on all surfaces. It's important to understand appropriate materials before beginning.

Choose Tiles Wisely

Ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone tiles take paint well, making them good candidates for DIY makeovers. However, tiles with a heavy glazed finish are not ideal for painting, as paint struggles to adhere to the slippery surface.

Select Compatible Paint

For kitchens and other high-traffic areas, an epoxy paint provides maximum durability and resistance to wear. For backsplashes and low-contact areas, standard ceramic tile paint suffices. In all cases, choose a paint formulated specifically for tile and intended for either floor or wall use.

Assess Tile Condition

Before painting, fix any problem areas on your existing tile:

• Use clear epoxy to fill small cracks and holes.
• Regrout areas where grout is missing or loose.

Prep Steps For Perfect Paint Adhesion

Thorough surface preparation allows the new paint to cling properly so yourbright makeover lasts.

Deep Clean the Tiles

Remove all grease, soap residue, and dirt using degreaser and warm water. Wipe down with white spirit to eliminate dust and debris. Paint can't adhere to dirty or oily surfaces.

Roughen the Tile Surface

Lightly sanding smooth tiles before painting gives the paint something to "grab onto," preventing peeling or chipping later. Don't sand textured tiles.

Apply a Bonding Primer

Primer promotes excellent paint adhesion and provides a uniform surface over varied grout colors and textures. Allow primer to dry completely before painting.

Paint Techniques for Brilliant Results

With properly prepped tiles, it's time to stir up some brilliant magic. Follow these tips for flawless painted tile.

Use Multiple Thin Layers

Thin coats prevent ugly brush strokes and keep paint from running or dripping mid-application. Work slowly and allow ample drying time between layers.

Let Paint Dry Fully Between Coats

Rushing the painting process tempts bubbling, cracking, and peeling. Be patient and allow each light layer to dry thoroughly before adding another for best results.

Seal Painted Tiles

Once tiles reach your desired brilliant new look, apply two coats of tile sealant for extra protection from moisture, stains, and wear. Sealant locks in paint for a longer-lasting makeover.

With some clever prepwork and painting pointers, kitchen tiles transform from bleh to brilliant affordably. No need to dread your dated tile--brighter, bolder kitchen backdrops are easier than ever!

Before and After Photos

FAQs

What kinds of tiles can I paint?

Ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone tiles are paintable. Avoid surfaces with heavy glaze.