Can I Paint My Kitchen Tile?
Renovating and remodeling a kitchen can be an expensive endeavor. However, there are many ways that you can update your kitchen without spending so much money. Painting kitchen tiles is just one way. Ceramic tiles are permanently installed but colors and styles can quickly go out of fashion. Painting your tiles is an easy way of giving your kitchen a fresh new look. It might be a time consuming process but it will save you hundreds of dollars.
Before you can start choosing colors there are a few things that you should know.
- You should not paint tiles in high traffic areas or areas that are moist. Focus on areas of the kitchen that does not come into contact with water.
- The results will greatly vary depending on the type of tile, products used and process followed.
- Repair any cracks and chips on the tile surface. Use epoxy or caulk fill in the cracks.
With that in mind, let’s get started with the process.
Step 1: Tile preparation
Clean the tile surfaces. Paint cannot adhere to a dirty and greasy surface. To remove any grime on the tiles, use an abrasive commercial tile cleaner. Hydrogen peroxide works wonders in cleaning mold. After the tile is clean, you need to sand the surface. This is because ceramic tiles have a glossy finish that does not adhere to paint. Sanding leaves the tile surface with a texture that paint can easily adhere to. After sanding, ensure you wipe down the surface to remove any sanding dust.
Step 2: Apply primer on the surface
The key to achieving a smooth and even finish is a good primer. Purchase an epoxy bonding primer so as to offer a suitable surface to paint over. Before you can prime the entire surface, try the primer on a small portion to ensure it gives you the desired results. When you are sure, you can prime the entire surface.
Step 3: Choosing paint
When choosing paint, go for a high gloss or semi-gloss formula. Latex paint usually dries faster but has a softer finish that can easily tear off the surface if it is scratched. Your other option is an oil-based paint which takes longer to dry but is more durable when compared to latex paint. Your final and best option s epoxy paint that is the most durable of the three.
Step 4: Painting
When painting you must be patient. Do not apply thick layers as there are chances of the paint peeling off. Apply several thin coats of paint and make sure the layer before is completely dry before applying the next. Once you are satisfied and you have given the paint about 3 days to dry, you can apply few coats of a clear water based top coat. It protects the painted tile from damage such as scratches.
If you need help painting your kitchen tiles, you can always contact us, your local painting contractor, for a professional job.