How to Change the Color of Ceramic Tile
- 1). Consider the location of the ceramic tiles. Paint applied to floor tiles in high-traffic areas will loosen because of friction. Paint on tiles near a bathtub or shower will peel away because of constant exposure to moisture. However, for other areas in your home, especially vertical surfaces, this could be the perfect solution for an update.
The age of the tile doesn't matter. Painting ceramic tile on a bathroom floor or any backsplash where water only comes in contact with it occasionally will work as long as the spill is wiped away. You can paint countertops, but consider whether it is an area where you frequently set hot pans. Heat causes paint to blister and peel. Friction from utensils will also damage the painted surface. - 2). Clean your surface. Read the paint instructions for any specific recommendations on how best to prepare the surface. A cleanser with a mild abrasive creates the best surface for paint to adhere to. Use trisodium phosphate to remove mold. Household detergent, vinegar diluted in an equal amount of water, or baking soda and enough water to form a past and a scrub brush all work well to clean the tile and the grout. Use a scrub brush on the tiles and grout. If you are using a commercial spray cleaner, let it sit on the surface before rinsing it away.
Scrubbing in a circular motion will help get rid of dust, dirt, grease, and wax. Allow tile to dry and then wipe with denatured alcohol to remove any remaining residue. The more thorough you are with this step, the better your final results will be. - 3). If the tile still has a sheen after you have thoroughly cleaned it, consider sanding it before applying paint. You can sand the surface by hand, but using an orbital sander will make the job easier. Use 220-grit sandpaper. Remove enough gloss to give the paint a surface to grip but not so much that you start to set marks that will show through the painted surface.
- 4). Prime the area. A high-quality, high-adhesion primer will create the strongest bond with the tile. Apply the primer with a brush in the corners and with a low-nap roller (1/8") for the overall surface. When the primer is dry, lightly sand the surface with a new sheet of 220-grit sandpaper to smooth any unevenness resulting from the roller.
- 5). Apply the paint using a low-nap roller or fine paintbrush to apply. Move in every direction when you paint to create a smooth application. Use a fine paintbrush to paint the grout a different color than the tiles. Allow the paint to dry according to the package instructions.
- 6). Protect the surface. Allow the paint to cure for two days. Remove any dust and dirt with a cloth. Cover the surface with a urethane finish and allow it to set and harden for two weeks.
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