Here’s how:
Gather your supplies
- ⬥ Heavy-duty degreaser
- ⬥ Sanding block
- ⬥ Painters tape
- ⬥ Newspaper or plastic sheeting
- ⬥ Latex primer
- ⬥ Angled paint brush (1”)
- ⬥ Small foam roller
- ⬥ Paint spray gun (optional)
Choose a paint that’s suited for your tile backsplash surface
Before you head out to the store, figure out the kind of tile backsplash that you have.
Porcelain, ceramic or unglazed quarry tile
Either latex or epoxy paint will work, either in one-part (pre-mixed) or two-part (ready-to-mix) made for interior surfaces.
Latex paint ranges from $10 to $30 per gallon and is not as obnoxious smelling – or toxic – as epoxy. However, unless you purchase the more expensive mildew-proof paint – it will wear quickly from moisture exposure.
Alternatively, use epoxy paint for your bathroom tile backsplash. Although pricier at $20 to $35 per gallon, it will last longer than standard latex.
This is because epoxy paint cures into a substance that’s more impervious to heat, water and “wears” better than latex paint.
Look for paint that’s made specifically for tubs and tiles if you’re unsure of what paint will work on your tiles.
Note that paint won’t adhere well to glazed quarry tiles, so painting is not an option if this is what you have.
Natural stone tiles
Choose acrylic latex paint that’s been made for use on interior stucco or masonry tiles. ($20 to $35 per gallon)
You can find all of these paints in a wide variety of sheens ranging from flat to high-gloss; giving you a lot of options for getting the look you want.
Prepare your bathroom countertop
Clear the countertops.
Scrub your tile backsplash thoroughly with a heavy duty cleaner to remove every trace of dirt, soap and/or grease.
Next, using newspaper, cover your sink, countertops and anything you don’t want painted. Use tape to secure in place and to ensure that surfaces remain covered.
Use painters’ tape for tight spaces (e.g. between the faucet and the backsplash and/or sink.
Prepare the surface to be painted
Use your sander to scuff up the tiles.
Sand your tiles thoroughly, but take care not to cause damage…you just want to rough up the tiles to help the primer stick better.
Apply primer
Using your small foam brush, paint the grout lines of your tiles. Then, use your roller brush to apply the primer evenly to the surface of the tiles.
If you prefer, use a paint gun, however if you’re unfamiliar with using one, you’ll want to practice first. Either way, open a window to ensure adequate ventilation and cover everything you don’t want painted.
After the primer has dried, sand the surface of your tiles one more time.
Note: Use urethane or epoxy primer if your tiles are ceramic or porcelain. Natural stone or unglazed quarry tile requires masonry primer.
Paint
Using the same method of painting, paint your bathroom tile backsplash.
Depending on the coverage your paint gives you may need to do more than one coat of paint.
To ensure good adhesion let each coat of paint dry thoroughly between applications.
Sealing the tile
Finally, to protect from scuff marks, scratches and grime finish with a clear sealer. For ceramic or porcelain use a urethane sealer. Natural stone or unglazed quarry tile needs masonry sealer.
Tip: If you discover little holes in the grout that you didn’t notice before use caulk to seal them up. Do this after sealing the tile.
If you like this post, you may also find these posts useful:
Simple Renovation Tips You Should Know About
How to Pick the Right Size Tile for a Small Bathroom
Tracking Your Paint Colors in HomeZada
