Painting a stone backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom by providing a fresh, updated appearance. With the right preparation and paint products, it is possible to successfully paint many types of natural and manufactured stone.Painting stone can provide a cost-effective alternative to replacing the backsplash entirely. It allows you to change the color scheme of your space without taking on a large remodeling project. With some simple cleaning, prep work, and paint application, you can give your outdated backsplash a makeover.
Benefits of Painting a Stone Backsplash
- Low Cost– Painting a backsplash costs a fraction of what it would cost to replace it with new tile or stone. Paint is an affordable option for renovating on a budget.
- Quick Revamp– Unlike replacing the entire backsplash, painting it can be done in a weekend. No need to remove and dispose of the existing stone.
- Color Change– Paint allows you to easily change the color scheme of your kitchen or bath. Try bold colors or modern, neutral hues.
- Cover Damage– Paint can mask stains, scratches, discoloration, or imperfections in the existing stone. It provides a fresh, flawless appearance.
- Trendy Look– Painted backsplashes are on-trend. They provide a modern, high-end look without the designer price tag.
- Customization– Paint allows you to add special touches like stencils or designs not possible with stone alone.
- Simple Update– Painting the backsplash is an easy DIY project for most homeowners. No need to hire contractors for a major remodel.
Painting a stone backsplash allows you to inexpensively and quickly update the look of your kitchen or bath. The project can be customized to your unique taste and adds stylish appeal.
Which Types of Stone Can Be Painted?
Many natural and manufactured types of stone can be painted, but porous, uneven, or delicate surfaces may be more challenging. Here is an overview of some common backsplash materials and how paintable they are:
Granite
Granite is very dense and non-porous, which makes adhesion a challenge with paint. However, proper cleaning, etching, and priming allow most granite to be painted successfully. The surface needs to be sanded for the paint to grip.
Marble
Like granite, marble is quite dense. As long as the surface is properly prepared through cleaning and etching, marble can be painted. Areas of raw marble may need additional priming. Due to marble’s delicate nature, hired professionals are recommended for this project.
Travertine
Travertine is a natural limestone that contains small pits and pores. The uneven and porous surface requires extra preparation but can be painted by filling holes and providing a smooth, primed surface for the paint.
Slate
Slate’s layered surface needs to be sanded and smoothed before painting to allow proper paint adhesion. Some slate may also need repairs to cracked or chipped areas. Once prepped, slate can be painted but does require careful application.
Limestone
Limestone is naturally porous, which makes painting easier as the paint can adhere in the tiny holes and divots. However, limestone is also prone to damage if painted, so caution must be used.
Manufactured Stone
Cultured stone backsplash materials like sintered stone, ceramic tile, and porcelain are typically smooth and easily painted. Still, prep and primer are required. Areas of raw, unglazed tile may require additional attention.
In most cases, natural and manufactured stone materials can be painted, but they require careful prep and paint designed for the specific material. Consulting with paint and tile professionals is the best way to determine if your backsplash can be painted properly.
How to Prepare a Stone Backsplash for Painting
Thorough preparation of the stone surface is crucial before painting a backsplash. Follow these steps to get your backsplash paint-ready:
- Clean Surface– Use a degreasing cleaner or mix of TSP and water to clean all dirt, oil, and soap residue from the stone. Rinse thoroughly.
- Repair Damage– Seal any cracks or chips with caulk or epoxy filler. Replace any loose tiles or grout before painting.
- Sand Surface– Lightly sand with 120-150 grit sandpaper to scuff up the glossy stone surface. This allows paint to adhere.
- Wipe Clean– Wipe away all sanding dust with a damp cloth. Make sure the surface is free of debris.
- Etch Surface– Use an etching product or mix of muriatic acid to open the stone’s pores for painting. Neutralize with baking soda and rinse well.
- Apply Primer– Choose a specialty stone primer and apply an even coat to increase paint adhesion. Allow to fully dry.
- Apply Second Coat of Primer– For best results, apply a second coat of primer to the stone. Let the primer cure according to manufacturer instructions before painting.
Proper prep removes dirt, smoothes the surface, opens pores, and allows the paint to properly bond to the stone. Don’t skip steps or the paint finish may not last!
Selecting the Right Paint and Supplies
Choosing products designed specifically for stone surfaces is crucial to getting durable, long-lasting results from a painted stone backsplash. Consider these essential supplies:
Etching Solution
An etching solution or product helps open pores and roughness on dense surfaces like granite, marble, and quartz for painting. Muriatic acid works well but must be used cautiously by experienced DIYers.
Primer
A quality stone primer improves paint adhesion and prevents peeling or chipping. It blocks stains and provides an even finish layer. Oil-based primers work best.
Paint
Use 100% acrylic latex paints or epoxies formulated for stone and tile. Avoid exterior or floor paints. Purchase enough for two coats.
Paint Supplies
Quality brushes, paint tray, rollers, foam brushes, painters tape, and drop cloths help create a professional paint job.
Sealant
After painting, use a clear stone sealant designed for backsplashes to protect the finish and improve water resistance.
Investing in the right supplies prevents paint damage or failure down the road. Consult with paint experts about products specifically for your stone type.
Step-By-Step Painting Instructions
Once you have prepped the surface and gathered the right supplies, follow these steps for flawless paint application on a stone backsplash:
1. Tape off the Area
Use painters tape to mask off any adjacent areas you don’t want to paint. Tape off outlets, trim, countertops, cabinets, etc.
2. Apply First Paint Coat
Use a small paintbrush or edger for corners and edges. Then roll on an even coat of paint with a mini foam roller. Avoid drips.
3. Let Dry Completely
Allow the first coat to dry fully overnight before applying a second coat. This prevents paint cracking or bubbling.
4. Sand and Clean Between Coats
Gently sand any drips or uneven areas using fine 220 grit sandpaper. Wipe clean before applying the next coat.
5. Apply Second Coat
Roll on the second finish coat of paint in the opposite direction of the first coat. Allow to fully dry overnight again.
6. Remove Tape
Once the paint is completely cured, carefully peel off all of the painters tape. Touch up any spots as needed.
7. Seal the Paint
Apply a thin, even coat of clear stone sealant to protect the painted finish from moisture damage or scratches.
8. Admire Your Work!
Your newly painted stone backsplash offers an updated, custom look. Enjoy the transformation!
With the right prep and products, you can successfully paint a stone backsplash yourself. Take your time and follow instructions closely. Adding color to stone is an easy weekend project that makes a big impact!
Most Suitable Paint Colours for Stone Backsplashes
The color of paint you choose can enhance the look of your rejuvenated stone backsplash. Here are some recommended shades:
Neutral Tones
Soft whites, greys, and tans accentuate the natural veining and patterns in stone. These neutral backdrops keep the space light and airy.
Bold or Dark Colors
Deep hues like navy, black, dark green, or charcoal give a moodier, sophisticated style. The rich tones contrast beautifully with the stone surface.
Earthy Tones
Warm shades reminiscent of clay, terracotta, adobe, and sandstone add organic color while still allowing the stone’s natural color to show through.
Metallic Finishes
Shimmering metallic paints like gold, silver, bronze, or copper add a glamorous, high-end look to natural stone. Use these colors sparingly.
Bright or Pastel Shades
For a pop of color, try lively pastels like mint, sky blue, lavender or coral. Vibrant paint modernizes the stone.
Aim for colors and finishes that work best with your existing countertop and cabinet colors. Neutrals give you flexibility to change other elements later on.
Tips for Achieving an Expert Painted Stone Backsplash
Follow these professional tips as you take on painting a stone backsplash for optimal results:
- Take your time prepping. Don’t rush or skip recommended cleaning, sanding, etching, patching, and priming steps before painting. Proper prep is crucial.
- Read all manufacturer instructions for prep products, primer, paint, and sealants. Follow their application and drying recommendations closely.
- Use high quality brushes and mini foam rollers to avoid brush marks and uneven coverage.
- Maintain a wet edge as you paint to prevent lap marks between sections. Blend areas together.
- Work in small sections for the smoothest finish. Cut in edges with a brush then quickly roll the section.
- Apply paint generously to avoid scraping the stone surface. Thin coats are more prone to chipping.
- Allow proper drying time between paint coats. Rushing the paint job risks cracking, chipping or peeling later on.
- Keep spray bottles and sponges handy to smooth drips or errors right away before drying.
- If painting dark colors over light stone, extra coats will be needed for opacity. Primer tinted grey helps too.
- Seal your painted backsplash once cured for added protection, durability, and washability.
- Consider hiring a professional if working with delicate marble or intricate tile patterns. Precision is required.
Arm yourself with the right knowledge before tackling a stone backsplash paint project. Careful prep work, patience, and high-quality paint materials are the keys to success!
FAQs About Painting a Stone Backsplash
Still have some uncertainties about painting your stone backsplash? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is all stone paintable? What about quartz or Quartzite?
Most stone can be painted, even very hard surfaces like quartz and quartzite. However, extra etching and scuff sanding is required for proper adhesion. Prime with a bonding primer made specifically for slick surfaces.
Should I repair damaged areas before painting stone?
Fill small cracks and holes with caulking designed for stone. Use an epoxy filler for larger damaged spots. Replace any extremely damaged or missing stone tiles before painting.
How long does painted stone last compared to new tile?
With proper prep and application, painted stone can last 5-10 years with minimal touch ups over time. Replacing the tile lasts longer but costs much more upfront.
What kind of paint is best for stone backsplashes?
100% acrylic latex paints designed for interior stone work best. Stay away from less flexible paints like alkyds or oil-based enamels that may crack or fail prematurely.
How many coats of paint does stone need?
Most surfaces only need two coats for full coverage. For dark colors on light stone, three thin coats are recommended. Adding a primer coat also helps mask the stone color.
Can I use a mini roller to paint a stone backsplash?
Yes, a high density 4-inch foam roller works wonderfully to apply the paint smoothly and evenly on stone. Follow with brush work around grout lines and edges.
Will paint stick to a glossy or polished stone backsplash?
Paint does not bond well to glossy and polished stone surfaces. These need to be scuff sanded and primed to provide the etch and tooth for proper paint adhesion.
How long does it take for paint to cure on stone?
Allow new paint on stone to cure for 2-3 days before use, 7-10 days to reach full hardness. Avoid cleaning or scrubbing during this time.
Transform Your Space With a Painted Stone Backsplash
Upgrading your kitchen or bathroom doesn’t have to involve a full remodeling if you have an existing stone backsplash in good condition. With proper prep and application of quality primer and paint, you can easily paint over stone surfaces like granite, travertine, slate, and ceramic or porcelain tile.
Painting allows you to inexpensively change the color scheme of your space in a weekend without the cost or work of new stone installation. Make sure to thoroughly clean, sand, etch, patch, and prime the backsplash first. Then apply at least two coats of 100% acrylic latex paint made specifically for interior stone use. Seal the paint once fully cured.
With some effort and the right materials, you can paint a stone backsplash yourself and save thousands over a professional replacement. Take your time and follow each preparation step. Select paint in a shade that coordinates with your cabinets, countertops, and home decor style. Then stand back and admire your fresh, updated look and DIY handiwork! Painting stone is an easy and affordable way to give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new style.