Can You Paint Tile? Here's What One Expert Says

Outdated and hopelessly dingy tile is impossible to ignore, but so is the price of installing new tile. Which leads us to the question every DIYer and interior design enthusiast asks: How can I make the biggest impact with the least amount of money? In this case, the answer is painting tile. While it may sound intimidating, we're breaking the entire process down for you with help from Ben Thomson, manager at Promain Paints.

Can You Actually Paint Tile?

Most ceramic, porcelain, and stone tile can be painted, but according to Thomson, it "may not be suitable for areas with high moisture or heavy foot traffic." You should also be wary of extremely textured or uneven tiles, which could be more challenging to paint effectively.

By painting your tile, you're able to reduce both your cost and your waste. It's way cheaper than demoing and replacing it, and it's the more sustainable option by extending the life of materials that would otherwise be discarded. And don't think that your only option is a couple coats of paint—stencils allow for unlimited customization options at an equally attainable price.

Choosing the Wrong Paint

When painting tile, the biggest mistake you can make is choosing the wrong paint. It's crucial for achieving a long-lasting finish—if you pick the wrong kind, you'll just have to redo it.

Epoxy Paint

Thomson's number one pick is epoxy, which typically comes in a two-step kit. "This is due to the paint's resilience and resistance to moisture, which makes it suitable for use in areas like bathrooms or kitchens," he explains. Because of its durability, you also don't have to worry about abrasion or chemicals nearly as much. The con is that it can be tricky to apply compared to other paints.

Enamel Paint

An oil-based paint, the most compelling thing about glossy enamel is that it dries hard. You can depend on it to resist moisture, be easy to clean, and truly last. Though the application is easy because it can cover an area quickly and easily, you should expect more fumes with enamel paint (this is a serious consideration if you're painting tile in popular part of your home). Though the drying time is longer, it provides great coverage.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is budget-friendly, easy to apply, and dries quickly, which is especially appealing to DIYers. That said, you're not going to want to use it in a high-moisture area like the bathroom. You might end up seeing signs of wear, like peeling or chipping, sooner.

Chalk Paint

If you're looking for a matte or rustic look, or you're hoping for minimal surface prep, chalk paint should be on your shortlist. However, it's best for low-traffic areas and isn't able to be used on every kind of tile.

5 Tips for Painting Tile

Prep and Prime

First, Thomson insists on a thorough cleaning. Without it, you'll just be painting over dust or grime, and the paint job won't last. "It's also important to repair any chips or cracks," he adds. Next, he says you should sand the tile to remove any existing sealants and roughen the surface for optimal adhesion. "Once you ensure that the surface is completely dry before painting, you'll need to apply a suitable primer," Thomson finishes.

Apply the First Coat

While it may be tempting to brush or roll as much paint onto the first coat as possible in hopes of avoiding a second one, Thomson advises against it. This is because a thick coat can lead to uneven results that are hard to fix—thin and steady wins the race. Whether you use a brush of roller depends on the manufacturer's instructions and your surface area.

Let It Dry

You may have a general idea of how long to expect depending on the type of paint you choose, but Thomson recommends you always defer to the manufacturer's instructions. They know their formulas better than anyone, though it never hurts to extend your drying time.

Apply the Second Coat

The same rule applies here as before: Focus on painting a thin, even coat. This is especially important considering it's your last chance to get the tiles just right (if needed).

Seal It In

The last step is just as critical as the others: sealing in all your hard work so it doesn't deteriorate. After the paint is completely dry, you can brush or roll on a water-based polyurethane or sealer specifically intended for tile. Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions, because they'll tell you exactly how many coats you need and how to apply them.

How to Care for Painted Tile

Part of taking care of painted tile is knowing how much traffic and moisture it can be exposed to on a regular basis. As long as you're following those rules, all you have to worry about is cleaning. You should:

• Wipe down your tiles regularly to minimize buildup of dirt and grime, which prevents you from having to do any hardcore cleaning.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals that can damage the painted surface—stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners instead.
• Resist the urge to scrub at your tiles, as this can case premature wear on the paint.

Alternatives to Painting Tile

Painting tile isn't for everyone, and luckily it doesn't have to be: There are other options that work just as well, depending on your needs.

Peel-and-Stick Tiles

Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles have only increased in popularity recently, and for good reason: They're strong, easy to clean, available in countless colors and patterns, and of course, affordable. Warning: Depending on the product, you may have difficulty pulling it up later—this is why reading reviews is so important.

Tile Stickers

Though tile stickers sound like peel-and-stick tiles (and they are similar in that they're made of vinyl and have an adhesive backing), they're actually thinner and intended for lower traffic areas (so not your kitchen).

Tile Refinishing Kits

The closest option to paint, tile refinishing kits typically come with a compound emulsion and hardener that you mix together once you're ready to get to work. Some even come with all the tools you need, making them a one-stop shop. The mix will harden in the container though, so don't make this a multi-day project.