For the longest time, I endured the sight of pink tiles with gray, stained grout in my home. The grout, once a pristine white, had succumbed to countless footprints, making cleaning a daunting chore.

The cheap, reflective pink tiles clashed with my cream walls, making the room feel uncomfortably warm. It was evident that these were the most budget-friendly tiles the previous homeowners could find.

laundry floor being painted

Are you facing a similar tile dilemma? Perhaps you despise your dated kitchen tile backsplash or cringe at the stains on your shower wall. It’s time to bid adieu to the old and usher in the new with this DIY tile repainting project. Repainting is not only simpler and more affordable than retiling but also consumes far less time—a win-win-win situation! Just take a look at these incredible before and after photos showcasing the transformation!

Before diving into the project, gather your supplies. You’ll find everything you need at your local hardware store: smooth-grade paint rollers, tile or flooring paint, and sandpaper, or a hand sander. Plan to avoid using the area you’re painting for at least 48 hours.

Step 1: Cleaning

Start by thoroughly cleaning your existing tiles using a simple Windex spray or warm, soapy water. Pay extra attention to the edges and textured areas if your tiles have any. For floors, mop by hand as typical mops might not suffice. Patience and a clean slate are essential to kickstart this project effectively. Dry the tiles completely using a towel.

cleaning tile floor

Step 2: Sanding

Gently sand the tiles to create a textured surface for the paint to adhere to. Employ a hand sander to expedite this step. Wipe away all the dust created by the sanding process from the tiles. If you’re working on the floor, vacuum thoroughly.

floor tile painted with stencil

Step 3: Taping

Take a few minutes to tape around toilets, outlets, trim, baseboards, or countertops. This helps achieve crisp edges and prevents accidental painting on unwanted surfaces.

rolling paint on tile floor

Step 4: Painting

Now, the real fun begins! Opt for an epoxy acrylic paint, such as Rust-Oleum’s porcelain finish, ideal for a durable surface. If the project involves spaces with increased moisture or heat, consider Rust-Oleum’s “Home” line designed specifically for flooring.

epoxy acrylic paint can

You won’t need much paint, even for multiple coats. Apply the paint thinly in the first coat, especially on grout lines, using a brush. Use a roller for the tile areas, employing a back-and-forth rolling motion to prevent visible lines. Let it dry for six hours and store the roller in a baggie to prevent drying.

Apply a second coat, brushing the grout lines and using the roller on the tiles.

can of paint

Optional Step: Stenciling

stencils for paintin tile

If you wish to add a stencil design to your tiles, now is the time. Secure the stencil in place with glue dots and roll the paint over it. Lift and repeat the process. Allow two hours of drying time before proceeding.

By following these steps meticulously, you can transform your outdated tile into a fresh, rejuvenated space that breathes new life into your home. Say goodbye to the old and welcome the revamped, all without breaking the bank or spending days on laborious tiling!

For an article about repainting brick check this article out

kitchen tile floor with stencil painting

 

Repainting tile has never been easier, and instantly upgrades your home! Makeover your bathroom or kitchen in 5 easy steps!