How to Paint Ceramic Tile

Did you know you can paint ceramic tile if it isn’t the color you want? Until recently I had no idea it was possible to paint ceramic tile. Like many others I thought it had to be removed and replaced. My sister has ceramic tile on the wall behind her kitchen sink, and the color wasn’t to her liking. Her home was built in the sixties, and she wanted to add color that would brighten the room without compromising the integrity of the original design. She recently learned to paint the ceramic tile, and the color difference completely changed the look of her kitchen. You can do it too!

Preparation

Ceramic tile must be properly cleaned and prepared before painting. Begin by cleaning the tiles you intend to paint with TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) according to product label instructions. This hard surface cleaner will remove any dirt, grease, and grime that would otherwise prevent adhesion. Be sure to thoroughly rinse away the TSP, and dry the ceramic tile before proceeding.

Next, sand the ceramic tile to remove any gloss from the surface. The primer and paint will adhere better to a rough surface. Use sandpaper with 220 grit for best results. Rinse away the ceramic dust with a clean wet rag, and allow it to dry completely before priming.

Tape off the walls, cabinets, or the edges of any other surfaces that require protection. Blue painter’s tape is the best option, and it’s available in a few different widths. In addition, cover countertops, carpets, and any other areas that could be damaged by ceramic tile primer and paint. Taking the time to prepare the edges and protect nearby surfaces will insure a neater job.

Once the tiles are completely dry and ready to prime, apply tile primer. Any other type of primer won’t work. It must be formulated especially for ceramics, and you can find this type of primer in home improvement stores and hardware stores. Allow the primer to dry for at least 4 hours before painting. Check product label instructions for recommendations. It can be sanded with fine-grit sandpaper to achieve an ultra smooth finish like that of the original surface.

Painting

After the ceramic tile primer is completely dry and sanded smooth, apply specially formulated ceramic tile paint with a roller or a high-quality brush. A cheaper brush will leave brush marks, and a higher quality brush with an angled edge is well worth the investment. The finished job will look only as good as the quality of the tools you use.

Allow the paint to dry approximately 4 hours before applying a second coat. Once a second coat has been applied, follow product label instructions regarding the length of time to wait before the finished surface can be touched or wiped clean.

Cleaning and Care

Never use a scratch pad, a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, or abrasive cleaners of any type on painted ceramic tile. They will most certainly damage the finish. Wipe the surface clean with a soft damp rag, and if necessary use a mild cleaning solution to help remove dirt and grease. Use gentle care when cleaning painted ceramic tile, and the new finish will last indefinitely.