How to Paint Tile

Painting tile is one of the easiest ways to update a backsplash, bathroom wall, or even a tired old floor—without the mess or expense of a full demo. With the right prep and products, painted tile can look fantastic and hold up surprisingly well.

Here’s how to give your tile a fresh new look.

Best Tile Surfaces to Paint

• Ceramic and porcelain wall tile
• Backsplashes
• Low-traffic floors (with specialty coatings)
• Fireplace surrounds

Note: Painted tile isn’t ideal for high-moisture, high-wear areas like shower interiors or busy entryway floors. But for decorative and lightly used surfaces, it works great.

What You’ll Need:

• Heavy-duty degreaser or TSP substitute
• Sandpaper or sanding block (150–220 grit)
• Tack cloth or clean microfibre cloth
• Painter’s tape
• Bonding primer
• Tile paint (epoxy, urethane, or enamel)
• Angled sash brush and low nap roller

Step 1:

Clean Thoroughly

Tile may look clean, but it holds onto soap scum, grease, and cleaner residue. Use a strong degreaser or tile-safe cleaner to remove every trace of dirt. Rinse well and let dry completely.

Step 2:

Sand the Surface

Lightly sand the tile to dull the surface and help the primer grip. You’re not trying to scratch through the glaze—just remove the shine. Wipe off all dust by vacuuming and with a tack cloth before moving on.

Step 3:

Tape Off Surrounding Areas

Use painter’s tape to protect any adjacent walls, countertops, or fixtures. This is especially important if you’re working near grout lines or tight corners.

Step 4:

Apply a Bonding Primer

A bonding primer is key. It creates a surface the paint can stick to, even on glossy tile. Apply one light, even coat and let it dry as directed on the label—usually 4 to 6 hours.

Some primers may require a second coat depending on the surface and tile colour.

Step 5:

Paint in Thin Coats

Use a small low nap roller or angled sash brush to apply your tile paint in two or three thin coats. Let each coat dry fully before applying the next.

Epoxy or enamel-based tile paints are best—they’re designed to resist moisture and wear. Some systems include a clear sealer for added protection.

Step 6:

Let It Cure

After the final coat, allow the paint to cure for several days before exposing it to water or placing anything on it. Most tile paints need at least 48–72 hours to fully harden.

Fresh Tile Without the Demo

With a few coats of the right paint, even dated tile can look clean and modern again. It’s a smart way to update a space on a budget—and with a weekend’s worth of work.

Ask Autohome for the Right Tile Paint

We carry high-adhesion primers, specialty tile paints, and everything you need to get started. If you’re unsure what product is best for your surface, just bring us a photo or tile sample—we’ll help you make the right call.