Tips for Painting Bathroom Tiles: A Complete Guide

There is an easy answer to this: Yes, you can paint bathroom tiles, but you’ll need to follow some specific steps along the way to ensure your paint job comes out looking great!

This blog will walk you through the process of painting your bathroom tiles, so you get the result you want. After you’re done, you’ll have a brand-new look to your bathroom you can be proud of. However, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle, there is another option. Hiring an experienced handyman to paint your bathroom tiles is one way to save time and effort and ensure the job gets done just the way you want it.

Preparing the Tile for Paint

If you decide to take on the task of painting your bathroom tile, it’s important to do some prep work first. Trying to paint a tile without any prep is a mistake that will cost you later. So, before any paint hits the tile, make sure you sand, scrub, and prime the tiled area first.

When sanding and scrubbing, make sure you cover the entire area you intend to paint, including the grout. This means getting rid of any residue or stains that have built up on the tile over the years. After completing this task, give the tile a final scrub down to rinse off any soap or residue with warm water.

Once the cleaning and scrubbing are complete and the surface is completely dry, it’s time for a primer. The type of primer you use will depend on the type of tile you’ll be painting. Epoxy or urethane primer can be used for ceramic or porcelain tile, while masonry primer is best for natural stone or unglazed quarry tile.

Types of Paint to Use For Bathroom Tiles

Now that you’ve prepared the tile, it’s time to choose the paint. Your paint choice will hinge largely on the type of tile in your bathroom and the purpose it serves. For example, latex or epoxy paint is the best choice for ceramic, porcelain, or unglazed quarry tile because it has better water-resistant properties. Latex paint is better for bathroom tile that remains relatively dry. Again, use an epoxy-based paint, especially one designed for tub and tile use, for areas that are exposed to moisture on a regular basis.

If you are painting tile made of natural stone, there is acrylic latex paint that works well on that type of surface.

Is Painting Bathroom Tiles Better Than Replacing Them?

In general, painting your bathroom tile is usually easier and cheaper than replacing them. When you factor in the time, labor, and cost to replace old tile, usually a few thousand dollars, depending on the size of the space, it can be much more cost-effective to change things up by applying a fresh coat of paint. This is especially true for tub and shower areas, which can be even more expensive to retile.

And don’t feel like painting tile means you’re stuck choosing only solid colors. If you’re interested in really changing things up, you can create your own pattern design. This is a great way to flex your artistic skills and have a little fun in the process. And when you choose to paint tile instead of replacing it, you’re free to change your mind, and the color of the tile every time you’re in the mood for a refresh.

Maintenance of Painted Tiles

Since most bathrooms tend to be a high-moisture environment, your painted tiles will need a little more maintenance. It’s important to be aware of this before you begin your tile painting project. If you notice any of the paint blistering, peeling, or fading, be prepared that you may need to redo your paint job (this includes preparing the area again).

Painting your bathroom tiles is a great way to make an old bathroom feel new again. A new paint job is an easy way to add a little life and color to your tiles, maybe even a splash of artistic expression if you choose to go with a pattern.

Contact Mr. Handyman

Now that you have all the information you need to successfully paint your tile, all you must do is find the time and energy to do it. If painting t your tile sounds like a great idea, but you just don’t have the time, contact the professional at your local Mr. Handyman to get it done for you. We can paint your tile with the color of your choice and select the right paint to ensure maximum durability and protection from moisture. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our bathroom tile painting service, give us a call or request an appointment online today!