Refreshing your bathroom is a great way to give your home a new life and increase your resale value. Previously installed tile may feel like an obstacle you can’t overcome when remodeling your bathroom. Worn-out surfaces or older tile patterns could dull down the effect of a bathroom remodel.
The great thing is that homeowners can paint bathroom tile! Painting tile is a cost-effective way to update a space without tackling a demolition project. In this blog, we will share tips on how to paint your tile and other considerations to keep in mind when working in the bathroom.
Pros Of Painting Your Bathroom Tile
Just like with any remodel or creative project, there are pros and cons of painting bathroom tile. Here are some of the pros of painting tile in a bathroom.
Removing tile in a bathroom can be a large undertaking. Remodeling a large bathroom and removing tile, flooring, and previous plumbing is expensive. Painting tile a new color or design is more cost-effective for homeowners on a budget. While paint and primer costs can add up, they are much cheaper than removing tile and grout from a shower or wall.
Ripping apart a tile wall causes a lot of mess. Demolition can create a lot of dust, paint flakes, and grout remnants that circulate into your home. These can cause your home to feel dirty or irritate allergies. A remodel is already messy and cluttered, so limiting more remodel clutter is crucial to a functional home.
Another benefit of painting bathroom tile is that it can easily be changed multiple times. Previously painted tile can be painted a new color to keep your bathroom modern and fresh. You can redecorate your bathroom with paint at any time without breaking the bank.
Cons Of Painting Bathroom Tile
Now we will get into the cons of painting bathroom tile. Just like any home project, problems can come up that you may not have planned for. If you encounter damage or unforeseen circumstances, painting your bathroom tile will take much longer than homeowners originally planned.
Tile that is located in your bathtub, shower, or in high moisture areas, will not hold up as well when painted. Moisture and paint often don’t mix well. Paint can start to lift in areas with high moisture or humidity.
All painting projects will require you to prepare the space before applying a color. Primer, sanding, measuring, and repairs are just a few steps that need to be taken before you paint tile in your bathroom. This process can take up a significant amount of time especially if not done correctly the first time.
How Long Will Painted Tiles Last?
While painting is cheaper, it doesn’t last forever. Especially in a more humid environment like a bathroom, painted tile can last for about 8 to 10 years. More intricate designs can start to fade or chip off sooner than just a simple coat of paint.
Depending on your prep work and the type of tile you are painting, the paint could last much longer. This is why repairing broken tiles and applying primer is crucial to the longevity of your painted tile. If you want your detailed paint job to last for the entire time you live there, ensure you use the proper paint type and do the proper prep work beforehand.
Tips For Painting Tile
Painting bathroom tile can be complex, but following the proper steps will ensure your bathroom project looks pristine. Here are our top tips to make your painted tile durable and look professional.
Materials And Tools Needed
During the preparation and painting process, you will need tools and materials to complete the job correctly. Some materials you may need could include:
- Drop cloths
- Painters tape
- Paint rollers
- Angled brush
- Sandpaper
- Microfiber cloth
- Paint tray
- Rubber gloves
- Sponge
- Respirator mask or other PPE
Repair Cracked Tiles
Before you slap paint on your shower tiles or backsplash, make sure to look for broken tiles. Making repairs or replacing loose tiles will help save you from harmful bacteria growth. Painting over broken tiles will not fix their appearance and will often enhance the crack as paint seeps into the space, leaving a large dark line.
Don’t Skip Primer
As previously mentioned, doing the proper prep work helps your paint job to last for many years. Applying a primer to your bathroom tile ensures adequate adhesion of paint to the otherwise slick surface. Priming the tiles will limit cracking and peeling.
Sealing
Since your tile is exposed to high moisture, you may benefit from applying a sealant to the painted tile. A sealer can help extend the longevity of your paint job by preventing mold, bubbling paint, and hard water streaks.
Painting Services From American Town Painting
American Town Painting can help improve your home with quality painting. We offer residential and commercial services to meet your unique needs. A fresh coat of paint is the most affordable remodel option for homes. Schedule a painting service with our expert today.