Pre-Glazed Tile on the Wall: Can I Paint Them?

Clean Surface

• A successful tile-painting project begins with the proper preparation. Most tiles are installed in the kitchen and the bathroom, two of the messiest rooms in the house. Before applying paint or primer to the tile surface, it is important to clean the tiles thoroughly. Even if tiles appear clean, it is important to give them a complete scrub. Oxygen bleach cleaners, hydrogen peroxide and sugar soap cleaners are ideal for removing dirt and grime from both the tile and grout.

Sanding

• After successfully cleaning the tiles, rough up the surface by sanding. Use a fine-grit sandpaper on the tiles you intend to paint. For large surfaces, you may save time and work by using an orbital sander. Sanders may be available for rent at your local home improvement store o tool rental store, if you don’t own one. Use a vacuum to clean up the residue from the sandpaper before priming and painting.

Priming

• Priming the tiles before painting also helps create a clean surface ideal for helping paint adhere to the tiles. Choose a product that works well on glossy surfaces or one recommended specifically for tile. Oil-based paint is good for painting tile, so it is important to choose an oil-based primer but avoid mixing water and oil-based products, as this could cause the paint to peel. Cover tiles with a thin layer of primer using a brush or low-nap roller. Allow the primer to cure for at least 24 hours before painting tiles.

Painting

• Choose an oil-based paint to cover the tiles. Use stencils to help you create designs on the tiles. Paint using thin, even coats. Painting tiles with a thick coat of paint can cause paint to drip and increase drying times. Allow paint to dry for 24 to 48 hours between coats. Lightly sand the surface before applying new coats. Sanding between the coats helps prevent the likelihood of peeling paint.