Kitchen backsplashes not only protect the walls from water damage and stains but act as a decorative focal point in the kitchen. Over time, your backsplash tiles may start to show their age with cracks, discoloration or chipping. Replacing the whole backsplash can be time-consuming and expensive. A budget-friendly solution is to paint over existing tile. With proper preparation and paint selection, you can give your backsplash a fresh new look.

Should You Paint Over Backsplash Tile?

Painting over backsplash tiles can completely transform the look of your kitchen. It allows you to change the color, hide damaged tiles, and give a backsplash a modern makeover. Before deciding to paint, consider:

Benefits of Painting Backsplash Tile

• Inexpensive – Much cheaper than replacing tiles
• Quick – Painting takes less time than re-tiling
• Easy – No special skills needed
• Modernizes – Allows changing color to update kitchen
• Hides flaws – Paint covers cracks, chips and discoloration

Drawbacks of Painting Backsplash Tile

• Temporary fix – Paint may scratch or peel over time
• Loses texture – Paint covers up original tile texture
• Dark colors show flaws – Imperfections may show through dark paint
• No going back – Paint is difficult to remove from tile

Painting tile backsplashes is best for small kitchens, rental properties or simple cosmetic updates. For major remodels on larger backsplashes, replacing the tile may be better.

How to Prepare Tile for Painting

Proper prep work before painting is crucial for the paint to adhere correctly to the tile and get an ideal finished look.

Clean the Tile

Make sure tiles are free of dirt, grease and soap residue. Clean with an ammonia-based cleaner or degreaser and rinse well. Allow tiles to fully dry.

Sand Glossy Tiles

Glossy tiles need to be dulled for paint to bond properly. Lightly sand tiles with 220-grit sandpaper until they have a flat, matte finish.

Fill Cracks and Holes

Use painter’s caulk or epoxy filler to patch any cracks, chips or missing grout lines. Allow filler to dry completely before painting.

Remove Grout Haze

Any grout haze or film on the tile surface will cause paint not to adhere well. Remove haze with an acidic grout cleaner or vinegar solution.

De-Gloss Previously Painted Tiles

If tiles were painted before, sand them with 220-grit paper to rough up the glossy painted surface. This helps new paint bond better.

Clean Grease Spots

Degrease any oily spots using ammonia, acetone or denatured alcohol on a rag. Avoid soft scrub abrasives that may scratch tiles.

With proper prep work, the tile will be ready for painting using bonding primer and paint suited for high-moisture areas.

Choosing Paint for Tile Backsplash

Picking the right type of paint ensures maximum adhesion and a long-lasting finish.

Epoxy Paint

Epoxy paint contains resins that form a tough, protective coating on tile once cured. Benefits include:

• Extremely durable finish
• Resists scratches and stains
• Allows dramatic color changes
• High adhesion to tile and grout

Use two-part epoxy paint specifically designed for tile and masonry.

Bonding Primer

Primer helps the paint better adhere to the slick tile surface. Use a bonding primer or tile primer before applying latex or epoxy paint.

Latex Paint

For bathroom backsplashes, use mold/mildew resistant latex paint. Make sure the latex paint is specifically designed for high-moisture areas.

Spray Paint

For small DIY projects, spray paint with built-in primer provides an easy update. Use spray paint formulated for tile, metal and masonry.

Avoid Regular Latex Wall Paint

Do not use regular wall paint over tile – it will easily scratch, peel and wear off. Stick with epoxy, bonding primer or latex paints designed specifically for tile surfaces.

Step-by-Step Painting Tile Backsplash

Follow these key steps for a long-lasting paint finish on backsplash tile:

1. Clean and Prepare Tile Surface

Follow all cleaning and prep steps mentioned above to get tiles ready for painting.

2. Tape Off Surrounding Areas

Use painter’s tape to mask off countertops, walls and ceiling. This prevents paint dripping onto other surfaces.

3. Apply Bonding Primer

Using a small foam roller or brush, apply a coat of bonding primer or tile primer. Let dry fully.

4. Apply Base Coat of Paint

Use a small paint roller or angled brush to apply the first coat of epoxy paint or latex paint suited for tile.

5. Let Paint Dry

Allow paint to dry fully before applying a second coat, usually 24 hours. Drying time may be longer for epoxy paints.

6. Apply Second Coat of Paint

For best coverage, apply two coats of paint using a small paint roller or brush.

7. Remove Tape and Re-Caulk

Once paint is fully cured, remove all painter’s tape. Re-apply fresh caulk along countertops, edges and seams.

With proper products and preparation, painted tile will have a smooth, uniforms finish. Use caution when cleaning – avoid abrasive scrubs or cleaners. Gentle soap and water is best for regular maintenance. Repaint any problem areas as needed to keep your backsplash looking fresh.

Types of Paint for Kitchen Backsplashes

Picking the optimal paint ensures great coverage and makes the painting project easier.

Epoxy Paint

Epoxy paint is extremely durable and resistant to moisture, grease and scratches. It allows dramatic color changes. Use two-part epoxy paint formulated for tile and masonry.

Latex Tile Paint

Latex paint designed for tile resists moisture and mildew growth. It’s easier to apply than epoxy but not quite as hardy. Use mold-resistant bathroom paint.

Appliance Spray Paint

For quick DIY updates, use spray paint formulated for tile, metal and masonry. It has built-in primer and good adhesion.

Bonding Primer

Primer helps latex or epoxy paints stick better to smooth tile. Always use a specialty bonding primer or tile primer first.

Tub & Tile Refinishing Paint

Some tub and tile paint kits contain epoxy paint, bonding primer and applicator in one package for easy refinishing.

Avoid using regular wall paint, chalk paint or craft paints over backsplash tile – they won’t hold up well. Stick with paints designed specifically for high-moisture tile areas.

Paint Colours for Kitchen Backsplashes

Paint allows you to transform the entire look of a backsplash with color. Consider:

White

White paint gives a clean, bright look. It makes small kitchens appear larger. Use a primer under white paint for best opacity.

Light Grey

Subtle, cool grey paint has a modern vibe. It serves as a clean backdrop in contemporary kitchens.

Navy Blue

For a bold accent wall, navy blue paint looks striking against white cabinets and stainless steel.

Black

Matte black paint adds drama and instantly modernizes a backsplash. Use over light tile or white grout for contrast.

Dark Green

Deep green paint gives a trendy, earthy look in farmhouse or cottage kitchens. Pair with warm wood tones.

Terracotta

Warm terracotta paint works with Tuscan, Mediterranean or Spanish style decor. Use over neutral tiles.

Consider painting a accent wall or focal area of the backsplash instead of the entire surface for a pop of color.

Supplies Needed to Paint Tile Backsplash

Gather these supplies before starting your backsplash painting project:

• Tile cleaning solution or degreaser
• Sandpaper
• Painter’s tape
• Rags, scrub brush
• Epoxy paint or latex tile paint
• Small paint roller & angled brush
• Bonding primer or tile primer
• Paint tray, stir sticks
• Drop cloth
• Painter’s caulk, applicator gun
• Grout sealer (optional)

Protect floors and surfaces with a drop cloth. Have materials ready to properly clean, prime and paint the tile surfaces.

Painting Backsplash Tile Pattern or Design

If your existing backsplash has an intricate tile pattern or decorative shapes, carefully paint the recessed grout lines first with a small artist’s brush using a contrasting color. This helps the pattern show through after painting.

Consider taping off any decorative tiles you want to remain unpainted. Use an angled brush to cut-in around the tile edges.

Go slowly and carefully when painting over decorative or complex tile designs. The original tile pattern will faintly show through the paint if you paint the grout lines first.

Can You Use Chalk Paint on Tile Backsplash?

Chalk paint (also called mineral paint) is often used to refinish old furniture and gives a matte, distressed patina. However, chalk paint is not formulated to bond and adhere well to slick non-porous surfaces like ceramic tile.

If you want to use regular chalk paint on backsplash tiles:

• De-gloss and roughen up tile surface first
• Apply 2-3 coats of chalk paint for coverage
• Finish with a protective sealer or top coat
• Expect to recoat every 1-2 years as paint wears

For best results, use specialty paints designed for tile rather than chalk paint. Chalk paint will not hold up as long and takes more maintenance.

How Long Does Painted Tile Backsplash Last?

How long your painted backsplash lasts depends on the paint type and quality of prep work.

• Epoxy paint lasts 5-10 years
• Latex tile paint lasts 2-5 years
• Appliance spray paint lasts 1-3 years
• Chalk paint lasts 1-2 years

Factors affecting paint lifespan:

• Surface prep – proper sanding and cleaning helps paint adhere
• Quality paint – epoxy is most durable option
• High-traffic areas – paint wears faster over stove
• Cleaning methods – avoid abrasive scrubbing

Spot paint touch-ups yearly. Fully repaint every 2-5 years to keep tile looking fresh and extend the life of your painted backsplash. Proper prep work and using quality epoxy or latex tile paints prevents having to paint annually.

Does Painting Tile Add Value to Home?

Painting outdated or damaged tile backsplashes can add value to your home without the cost of full tile replacement. Benefits include:

Modernization – Painting drab backsplash tiles in trendy colors modernizes the kitchen. This appeals to buyers looking for move-in ready updates.

Damage coverage – Paint provides an inexpensive way to hide cracked, missing or stained grout. Makes kitchen look neat and updated.

Neutral palette – Painting tiles white or light grey gives a clean, neutral backdrop that appeals to more buyers.

Customization – Paint allows buyers to pick their own backsplash color if desired. Much easier change than removing tile.

In general, painting tile backsplashes adds more value than leaving damaged, outdated tiles that need replacing. HGTV estimates painted backsplashes can recoup up to 97% of the project cost at resale. For maximum value boost, use high-quality epoxy paints that will hold up over time.

Cost to Paint Kitchen Backsplash Tiles

The cost to paint a tile backsplash in the average 10×5 ft. kitchen ranges from:

• DIY using latex paint – $50 to $150
• Professional with epoxy paint – $400 to $850

Major cost factors:

• Tile preparation time
• Square footage of backsplash
• Type of paint used
• If hiring a pro, labor rates in your area

Painting existing tiles is significantly less expensive than a full tile tear out and replacement. For example, tile installation costs $15 to $40 per sq. ft. on average. Painting saves big on labor and material costs.

Maintaining a Painted Tile Backsplash

Painted backsplashes require some maintenance to keep looking fresh over the years.

• Avoid abrasive cleansers or scrub pads – use gentle dish soap and water
• Immediately wipe up cooking grease spatters
• Seal grout lines annually with grout sealer
• Watch for worn paint around faucet, stove, edges
• Spot paint worn areas as needed
• Plan to fully repaint every 3-5 years

Take care not to chip paint when removing items from walls. Test paint compatibility if using any adhesive wall hooks. For best results, clean with soft cloths instead of rough scrubbing.

FAQ – Painting Over Tile Backsplash

Can you use regular latex wall paint on backsplash tile?

No, regular wall paint does not adhere well and will peel quickly. Use high adhesion epoxy or latex paint formulated specifically for kitchen backsplash tile for best results.

What sheen of paint works best on backsplash tiles?

Matte and eggshell finishes hide imperfections in grout and tile best. Semi-gloss can work, but may show underlying flaws. High-gloss enamel paint is not recommended.

Should backsplash paint match cabinet color?

Not necessarily – many designers use backsplash paint as a contrasting accent color against cabinetry. However, matching paint to cabinets does create a cohesive look.

How do you paint behind a stove on backsplash tile?

Use a small angled brush to carefully cut-in around stove edges. Avoid painting directly over hot surfaces. Remove knobs and panels to fully paint behind stove.

Can you spray paint a tile backsplash?

Yes, spray paint with built-in primer specially formulated for tile and masonry works well for quick DIY updates. Use light coats and avoid dripping for best results.

Painting over existing backsplash tile offers an easy, budget-friendly way to modernize your kitchen. With proper preparation, paint selection and application, your new painted backsplash will have a fresh updated look that transforms the entire kitchen.

Conclusion

In summary, painting over kitchen backsplash tile is an inexpensive way to update the look of your kitchen. With the right prep work, paints and application, a painted backsplash can give your kitchen a whole new style. Careful cleaning, proper priming, using tile-specific paints, applying two coats and maintaining the finish will ensure your painted backsplash holds up beautifully for years of cooking and entertaining.