Painting tile can completely transform the look and feel of a space. With so many tile paint products on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your project. We’ve reviewed the top 4 tile paints to help you choose the right one.
What to Consider When Choosing a Tile Paint
When selecting a tile paint, there are a few key factors to consider:
Tile Material
- Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles require specific paints designed to adhere to those surfaces. Using the wrong paint could result in peeling or chipping.
Gloss Level
- Tile paints come in different finishes – flat/matte, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Consider which sheen will work best for your project.
Durability
- How well does the paint hold up to foot traffic, cleaning, scrubs? Higher quality paints withstand wear better.
Ease of Application
- Is prior tedious surface prep required? How many coats are needed? Some paints are more user-friendly.
Intended Use
- Will the tiles get light vs heavy use? Floors need tougher paints than backsplashes. Outdoor projects may require special paint.
With these factors in mind, let’s review the top 4 tile paint picks:
1. Rust-Oleum Specialty Tile Transformations Kit
Best For: Complete Tile Makeover on a Budget
Key Features:
- Designed to adhere to ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone
- Available in 10 color options from white to black
- Matte finish transforms old tile
- Kit includes paint, applicator, scrub pad, and sealer
- No stripping or priming needed
Overview:
The Rust-Oleum Tile Transformations Kit offers everything you need for a tile makeover for under $20 per kit. It goes on easily with a roller and adheres well to common tile materials without requiring stripping or priming first. The included scrub pad helps remove gloss and roughen the surface. The matte finish hides imperfections and completely changes the look of outdated tile. It holds up well to foot traffic and cleaning. Overall, it’s the most budget-friendly complete tile painting system.
2. BEHR Premium 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Paint
Best For: Long-Lasting Tile Paint
Key Features:
- Advanced 1-part epoxy acrylic formula
- Self-priming on ceramic and porcelain
- Durable, scrubbable, stain and fade resistant
- Low-VOC, low odor
- 25+ custom colors
Overview:
BEHR 1-Part Epoxy is specially designed to bond reliably to tile without a separate primer. The advanced epoxy acrylic formula provides a strong grip that prevents chipping or peeling. It features stain and fade resistance to keep the vibrant color looking fresh. The satin finish resists yellowing or dulling over time. It stands up to heavy foot traffic, routine cleaning, and scrubbing. The 1-part epoxy formula means easier cleanup than traditional 2-part epoxies. It’s also low-odor and low-VOC. Multiple custom colors are available. Overall, it’s a great option when you need a tough, long-lasting tile paint.
3. INSL-X Cabinet Coat Enamel Paint
Best For: Smooth High-Gloss Finish
Key Features:
- Water-based alkyd enamel
- Self-leveling for smooth finish
- Available in 30+ colors including metallics
- Sticks to ceramic, porcelain, and more
- Gloss, satin, and matte sheens
Overview:
INSL-X Cabinet Coat is an ultra-smooth industrial-strength enamel paint formulated to provide flawless results on cabinets and woodwork. But it also works excellently on ceramic, porcelain, laminate, and similar tile materials. The self-leveling formula smooths brush marks and imperfections for a glass-like finish. It’s available in over 30 colors including beautiful metallics that give tile a rich custom look. It provides excellent adhesion and durability. The water-based alkyd formulation provides easy soap and water cleanup. INSL-X Cabinet Coat is a top choice if you desire a flawless, high-gloss painted tile finish.
4. Krylon Fusion All-In-One Paint
Best For: Spray-On Convenience
Key Features:
- Bonds to ceramic, porcelain, and more
- Satin, matte, and gloss sheens
- 20+ colors
- Paint and primer in one
- Low-odor spray application
Overview:
Krylon Fusion All-in-One makes painting tile projects fast and easy with spray-on convenience. It combines paint and primer in one to bond reliably to ceramic, porcelain, laminate and other surfaces without separate priming. It’s available in multiple sheens from matte to high-gloss depending on your finish preference. The low-odor formula and any-angle spray tip make application user-friendly. Fusion All-in-One dries fast to a durable finish that handles foot traffic. It’s a great choice for quick small tile paint jobs or when spraying larger areas. The wide range of colors allows easily revitalizing tile.
How to Paint Tile – Step-by-Step
Now that we’ve reviewed the top tile paints, let’s go over the process of prepping and painting tile properly:
Step 1 – Clean and Dry the Tile
Thoroughly clean the tile using a degreasing cleaner to remove any dirt, oil, soap residue, or existing sealers. Rinse well and allow to fully dry before painting. Porcelain or very dense tile may require lightly sanding for the paint to bond properly.
Step 2 – Scuff Glossy Surfaces
If the tile has a factory glossy finish, scuff the surface using sandpaper or a scrub pad. This deglossing helps the paint adhere better. Avoid skipping this step on very shiny tile.
Step 3 – Apply Primer if Needed
Some tile paints act as their own primer, but others require priming first. Check the product details. Priming helps prevent paint peeling. Allow primer to dry completely before painting.
Step 4 – Paint Carefully and Methodically
Use angled brush around edges and grout lines. Roll larger areas. Allow sufficient dry time between coats as specified by the paint product. Metallic paints often require sealing for durability.
Step 5 – Seal and Protect Painted Tile
Once fully dry, apply 2-3 coats of a compatible sealer to protect the finish and enhance paint adhesion and durability. Avoid walking on tile until the sealer fully cures.
Patience, proper prep, and care when applying produce the best painted tile results.
Benefits of Painting Tile
Painting tile offers many great benefits compared to re-tiling a space:
It’s More Affordable
Painting tile costs a fraction of what new tile installation does. The products are inexpensive, usually under $50 per kit or gallon of paint.
No Demolition or Removal
Painting avoids the huge mess and work of tearing out old tile and dealing with the disposal hassle.
Ideal for Rental Homes
Painting tile allows easily upgrading a rental kitchen or bath without permanent changes. Simply repaint when moving out.
Quick Project
Painting tile goes much faster than retiling. After proper prep, painted tile can be usable again in less than a day versus a week or more for new tile.
Customize Colors and Finishes
Paint opens up endless possibilities for custom tile colors and gloss/matte finishes. Metallic paints create a rich custom look.
Covers Up Flaws
Painting disguises cracked, damaged, or outdated tile instead of replacing it. It makes old grout lines less visible.
For a fast and affordable way to transform tile, paint is hard to beat. Next let’s look at key factors to consider when choosing paint colors.
Factors When Choosing Paint Colors for Tile
The color possibilities are endless when painting tile, so consider these tips to select shades that work best:
Decor Style and Use
- Does the color fit the overall decor scheme – traditional, modern, minimalist? Is it a high-use kitchen or low-traffic bathroom?
Personal Preference
- Choose colors you find pleasant, soothing, energizing – avoid just trends
Lighting
- Test paint samples under both natural and artificial lighting. Colors appear differently.
Purpose and Function
- Dark moody hues for accent walls or bright tones to open a small space
Contrast
- Use lighter paint on floors for better visibility. Darker paint can disguise flaws.
Combine Colors
- Painting tile in multiple colors can add interest. Use an accent color on 10-25% of tiles.
Coordination
- Make sure tile color complements countertops, cabinets, furnishings, etc.
Thoroughly explore color options before committing. Now let’s look at the best uses for painted tile in various rooms.
Where to Use Painted Tile in Your Home
Painted tile adds an instant facelift and works beautifully throughout the home:
Kitchen
Outdated kitchen tile paints up easily for a fresh modern look. Use brighter whites to make the space feel open and airy. Darker shades like navy can add drama. Paint just the backsplash or floor as well.
Bathroom
Painting bath and shower tile modernizes the space. Lighter blues, greens, and grays help create a relaxing spa-like retreat. Gloss finishes make cleaning easier.
Entryway
Welcome guests with an eye-catching painted tile entryfloor or front steps. Bold reds, blacks, and deep greens make a powerful statement.
Laundry Room
Soft hues like buttery yellows or robin’s egg blue cheer up the laundry zone. Gloss finish is easy to keep clean.
Outdoor
Refresh dull patio tile by painting it in sandy beiges, warm terra cottas, or cool dark blues. Use exterior grade paints.
Fireplace
Paint outdated brick fireplace surrounds white or modern black to create a stunning focal point.
With the right prep and product, tile paints beautifully in virtually any room.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Tile
Let’s review some common questions about painting tile:
Is all tile paintable?
Porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, cement, and glass tiles accept paint well. Avoid painting soapstone, wood, cork, or resin tiles.
Does new grout need to be installed after painting?
Not usually. Most tile paints are formulated to adhere well directly over existing grout.
Can outdoor tile be painted?
Yes, uses exterior grade masonry paints designed for patio, porch, and outdoor tile.
What sheen is best for tile: gloss, satin, or matte?
Gloss and satin make cleanup easier. Matte hides imperfections best. Use satin or semi-gloss for high traffic floors.
How long does painted tile last compared to new installed tile?
Painted tile lasts 3-5 years on average with proper prep and application. New tile lasts 10-15 years or longer generally.
How soon can I walk on painted tile?
Cure times vary by products but often 12-24 hours is recommended before walking on painted floors.
Conclusion
Painting tile is an easy and affordable way to give tile a fresh new look with custom colors. With so many quality paints to choose from, select one that suits your project’s needs and tile type. Prep properly and apply carefully in thin even coats. Seal the finished paint for added durability and easier cleaning. Patience and care when prepping and painting results in tile with a beautiful, long-lasting facelift. Transform your tile today with a brilliant new color using one of these top-rated paints!