Everything You Need to Know About Painting Backsplash Tile
Having an outdated backsplash in your kitchen can make it feel old and drab. Replacing tile is messy, expensive, and time consuming – so what do you do if you want to update your backsplash without going through a big renovation project? Painting over existing tile is an affordable, low commitment option that can completely transform the look of your kitchen. Here is everything you need to know about painting backsplash tile.
What Kind of Paint Should You Use?
Not just any old paint will stick to a tile backsplash. You need to use a special tile paint that is formulated to bond to the slick surface. There are a few different options:
- Epoxy paint – This two-part paint contains epoxy resin that allows it to adhere tightly to tile. It is extremely durable and will not chip or scratch easily. Epoxy paint comes in many different sheens and can create a bright, glossy look.
- Latex tile paint – This is a water-based acrylic paint made specifically for tile surfaces. It goes on easily and dries quickly. Latex paint has a matte finish.
- Acrylic craft paint – The super versatile craft paints work on a variety of surfaces, including tile. They come in tons of fun colors. Just be aware that acrylics are less durable than epoxy or latex tile paints.
How to Prepare the Tile Surface
In order for the paint to properly adhere, you need to make sure the tile is clean and lightly textured. Follow these steps:
- Clean the tile thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner to remove any dirt, oil or soap scum. Rinse and let dry completely.
- Lightly sand the glazed tile surface using 220 grit sandpaper. This will rough it up so the paint can grip.
- Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.
- Apply a bonding primer to help the paint stick. Let the primer fully dry.
Painting Techniques
Once prepped, you can start painting your backsplash tile:
- Rolling – Use a small foam roller to apply an even coat of paint over the entire surface. Work in sections. Let each coat fully dry before adding another.
- Brushing – Use a small trim brush to cut along the grout lines and get into corners. This takes more time but avoids messy drips.
- Sponging – You can create an antiqued, mottled effect by dabbing on paint with a crumpled up sponge.
- Stenciling – Use painters tape and stencils to createpatterns for a custom decorative look.
- Spraying – Spray paint can be used for a smooth, consistent finish. Make sure to properly mask off the surrounding areas first.
Finishing Touches
Once the paint is fully cured, you may want to add a protective clear coat, like polyurethane. This adds a glossy top layer and helps the paint hold up better over time. Also caulk along the countertop-backsplash seam for a polished look.
Tips for Great Results Painting Tile
- Take your time prepping – this is the most important step!
- Apply 2-3 thin coats of paint rather than 1 thick coat.
- Let the paint cure for several days before cleaning or using the backsplash.
- Use painter’s tape along the wall edges for crisp paint lines.
- Work slow and avoid drips.
- Start your painting in an inconspicuous spot in case you need to make adjustments.
- Make sure the room is well-ventilated and wear a respirator mask.
Painting over tile is an affordable DIY option for updating your backsplash without remodeling. With the right prep and products, you can easily transform the look of your kitchen. Just be patient during the painting process to end up with a fresh new backsplash.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Backsplash Tile
Can you use regular paint on a tile backsplash?
No, regular wall paints are not formulated to properly bond and adhere to tile surfaces. You need to use a specialty tile paint like epoxy, latex or acrylic craft paint. These have ingredients that allow them to grip onto the tile.
What sheen of tile paint is best – glossy or matte?
This depends on the look you are going for. Glossy epoxy paints make tile look bright, shiny and new. Matte latex paints have a more modern, muted finish. Satin sheens are somewhere in between. Consider the rest of your kitchen decor when choosing tile paint sheen.
Do you have to sand tile before painting it?
Sanding is highly recommended before painting tile. It slightly etches and roughens up the glazed ceramic surface so that the paint can properly adhere. Start with 220 grit sandpaper and give the tile a good scuffing.
Should tile be sealed before or after painting?
Sealing is not mandatory, but it helps protect the finish. We recommend applying sealant after painting. Once the paint has fully cured and dried, brush on a tile sealant. This adds a protective top coat.
How long does it take for tile paint to cure?
Most tile paints take 2-3 days to fully cure and harden. Avoid cleaning or heavy use of the backsplash during this time. Letting the paint cure properly ensures you’ll have a durable finish.
What’s the best way to apply tile paint smoothly?
Using a small foam roller, apply paint in thin coats, letting each coat fully dry before adding another. This avoids drips. For corners and grout lines, use an angled trim brush. Sponges or spray guns can also create smooth tile paint finishes.
How do you paint behind a stove or around outlets on backsplash tile?
It can be tricky painting behind appliances and around outlets and switches. Carefully remove them if possible to make painting easier. Otherwise use small foam brushes to cut in around these areas. Low tack painter’s tape helps create straight edges.
Will paint stick to shiny glazed ceramic tile?
Paint can still adhere to glazed surfaces, but extra preparation is required. Make sure to thoroughly scuff sand the glaze first. Use a bonding primer before painting for the best grip. The tile paint types recommended above can bond successfully to the sanded shiny tile.
Painting over existing backsplash tile is an affordable and customizable way to update your kitchen’s style. With the right paint and prep methods, you can entirely change the look of your tile backsplash.
Conclusion
Updating a dated or damaged tile backsplash doesn’t require a full remodeling project. With some simple preparation and the right materials, painting over existing tile is an easy DIY solution. Specialty epoxy, latex or acrylic tile paints create a durable and vibrant new look. Just be sure to properly clean and scuff the tile first for proper adhesion. Use paint rollers, brushes or sponges for flawless application. Add interesting patterns with stencils or colors for a customize look. With a little time and patience, you can paint tile backsplash and make your kitchen feel brand new again.