Painting a glass tile backsplash can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With the right preparatory steps and paint products, you can easily upgrade outdated tile to give your space a fresh new aesthetic. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully paint glass tile backsplash.
Introduction to Painting Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass tile offers a beautiful, reflective surface for backsplashes and other areas. However, over time it can appear dated or become stained and worn. Rather than undergoing a costly renovation to replace the tile, consider repainting it to give your space an updated, custom look. With the proper prep work and paint supplies, you can paint your glass tile backsplash in a weekend.
Painting glass tile backsplash has many benefits:
- Cost-effective – Saves thousands compared to retiling
- Quick – Transform the space in just 2-3 days
- Customizable – Choose any color for a unique new look
- Durable – Modern paints adhere well and last for years
Below we will outline the complete process for painting glass mosaic tiles or other glass backsplash tile, step-by-step. Be sure to read through the entire DIY guide before getting started. Proper preparation and product selection will ensure your painted backsplash looks amazing and lasts.
Step 1: Prepare the Glass Tile Surface
Thorough preparation of the glass tile is crucial for proper paint adhesion. Follow these steps to get the surface ready for painting:
Clean the Tile
Use a general household cleaner or degreaser to thoroughly clean the glass tile. Remove any dirt, grease, soap residue, or other contaminants that could impede paint adhesion.
Scrub with a stiff bristle brush and rinse several times with clean water. Let the tile dry completely.
Sand the Glossy Surface (optional)
Glass tile has an ultra-smooth, glossy finish. For paint to properly adhere, it’s best to lightly scuff up this surface.
Use 220-400 grit sandpaper to gently rough up the tile. You don’t need to completely frost or etch the glass, just dull the shine.
Be sure to sand evenly across all tiles. Completely rinse away all sanding dust when finished.
Remove Any Grout Haze
Use a grout haze remover to wipe any film or residue off the surface of the glass tile. Re-clean the tile with dish soap and water after using the remover.
Apply Adhesion Promoter
After cleaning, use an adhesion promoter or primer specifically formulated for glass and tile.
This product helps the paint bind to the nonporous surface. Carefully read and follow the product directions.
Applying this promoter is the most important step for successful painting results.
Allow the adhesion promoter to dry completely before painting.
Step 2: Select the Right Paint Products
Choosing paint products designed for glass and tile is critical for getting durable, long-lasting results when painting a backsplash. Consider these factors when selecting paint:
Type of Paint
Enamel paints provide a glossy, glass-like finish when dry, while latex paint has a matte finish. For glass tile, stick with enamels for best results.
Oil-based enamel will adhere better than a water-based version. But oil-based requires mineral spirits for cleanup.
Paint Finish
Opt for a gloss or semi-gloss finish paint. These will dry with a smooth, light-reflecting surface similar to the original tile. Stay away from flat or matte finishes.
Gloss enamel offers the most durable finish. Semi-gloss paint is also suitable and can hide imperfections better.
Color Choices
The possibilities are endless for paint colors to transform your backsplash!
For best results on glass tile, select lighter, bright colors. Darker colors can appear uneven or spotty over a reflective surface.
If covering a colored tile, use a primer tinted to match the paint for optimal concealment.
Consider getting sample sizes to test colors before committing to a full gallon.
Additional Supplies
Here are some other supplies that will be handy for painting glass tile:
- Disposable paint tray, roller, and brush
- Painter’s tape
- Tarp or drop cloth
- Mineral spirits (for oil-based paint cleanup)
Step 3: Paint the Glass Tile Backsplash
Once you have prepped the surface and selected suitable paint products, you are ready to begin painting. Follow these best practices as you apply the paint:
1. Apply First Coat
Use a brush to carefully apply the first coat around the edges of each tile. Cut in with angled brush strokes to avoid getting paint between the tiles.
After edging, use a small foam roller to apply an even coat across the entire backsplash surface. Maintain wet edges as you paint.
Allow the first coat to dry fully.
2. Apply Second Coat
Follow the same painting techniques for the second coat, using gentle brush strokes and a foam roller.
The second coat will provide full, even coverage and a rich, opaque color.
If the original tile color is still visible after 2 coats, apply a third coat as needed.
3. Remove Tape and Reattach Fixtures
Once the final coat has dried for at least 24 hours, carefully remove all painter’s tape from the edges.
Re-hang any fixtures or fittings that were removed before painting.
4. Seal the Painted Tile (optional)
For added durability and stain resistance, apply a clear acrylic sealer formulated for tile and glass.
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s application directions.
Step 4: Let the Paint Fully Cure
It’s important to allow adequate cure time for the paint on your backsplash tile. Here is how long to wait before normal use:
- 24-48 hours – Wait at least 24 hours before removing painter’s tape.
- 3-5 days – Allow the paint to cure for several days before cleaning or wiping the surface.
- 1-2 weeks – Wait this long for maximum hardness and durability of the painted finish.
Avoid scrubbing, intense cleaning, or exposure to moisture during the curing period. The paint will continue to harden and become more durable over the first 1-2 weeks.
How to Maintain and Care for Painted Tile
Follow these tips to keep your newly painted backsplash looking fresh and clean:
- Use gentle cleaners like dish soap and water to clean. Avoid abrasive pads or powders.
- Immediately wipe up spills and splatters to prevent possible stains.
- Reapply a fresh coat of sealer every 1-2 years for added protection.
- Avoid hanging heavy items like shelving directly on painted tile.
- Use trivets and hot pads when setting hot pans on the backsplash.
With proper care, your painted glass tile backsplash will maintain its freshly updated look for years!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint over cracked or missing grout?
Yes, painting will conceal any existing damage or flaws in the grout lines. Be sure to thoroughly clean the grout first.
Should I use spray paint?
Sprays are not recommended. It is too difficult to get full, even coverage and proper adhesion on tile with a spray application.
What sheen is best – gloss, satin, or semi-gloss?
Gloss or semi-gloss enamels give the best results over glass tile for an even appearance and wipeable surface.
Do I need to use a primer first?
A primer is critical if you need to cover bold colors or need better adhesion. For white or light glass tile, you can skip priming.
Can I use acrylic craft paint?
No, craft-type acrylic paint does not adhere well to slick surfaces like glass tile. Use products specifically formulated for painting tile.
How do I paint around the edges between tiles?
Carefully “cut in” around the tile edges with a thin angled paintbrush before rolling over the center.
Can painted tile get wet?
Once fully cured, the paint is water-resistant. However, allow 1-2 weeks cure time before exposing it to moisture.
Conclusion
Painting glass tile backsplash offers an affordable way to refresh your kitchen or bath. With proper prep, paint designed for tile, and careful application techniques you can achieve gorgeous results. Allow adequate cure time for maximum durability. Follow the steps in this guide to ensure your painted backsplash turns out beautifully and lasts for many years of enjoyment. Transform your space with an artful, glassy painted tile backsplash accent wall.