Can You Paint Shower Tile? My Personal Experience And Tips

After years of living with outdated tile in my shower, I decided it was time for a change. But with a limited budget, a full renovation wasn’t an option. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of painting my shower tile. I was skeptical at first, but after some research and a bit of trial and error, I can confidently say that, yes, you can paint shower tile.

Step-by-Step Guide for Painting Shower Tile

Before you begin, it’s important to properly prepare the surface. Here are the steps I followed:

Step 1: Clean the Tile

Using a tile cleaner and a scrub brush, thoroughly clean the tile and grout. Rinse with water and allow to dry completely.

Step 2: Sand the Tile

Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the tile to create a rough surface that the paint can adhere to. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.

Step 3: Prime the Tile

Apply a coat of primer specifically designed for tile. Allow to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Paint the Tile

Using a paint specifically formulated for tile, apply two to three coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Be sure to use a paintbrush designed for smooth surfaces to avoid brush strokes.

Step 5: Seal the Tile

Once the final coat of paint has dried completely, apply a sealant to protect the tile from water damage and to ensure the longevity of the paint job.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Painting Shower Tile

Here are a few tips and ideas to keep in mind when painting your shower tile:

1. Choose a paint specifically formulated for tile to ensure durability and longevity.
2. Consider using stencils or painter’s tape to create a design or pattern on the tile.
3. Use a high-quality paintbrush designed for smooth surfaces to avoid brush strokes.
4. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next.
5. Consider adding a non-slip additive to the paint to prevent slips and falls in the shower.
6. Be sure to properly ventilate the area while painting and allow the paint to dry completely before using the shower.
7. Choose a color that complements the rest of the bathroom decor.
8. Consider painting the grout as well for a more cohesive look.
9. Apply a sealant to protect the tile from water damage and ensure the longevity of the paint job.
10. Be prepared to touch up the paint job periodically as needed.

Pros and Cons of Painting Shower Tile

Like any home renovation project, there are pros and cons to painting shower tile. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

• Cost-effective alternative to a full renovation
• Can give a fresh and updated look to an outdated shower
• Can be done in a weekend
• Allows for more customization and design options than traditional tile

Cons:

• May not be as durable as traditional tile
• May require periodic touch-ups
• May not be suitable for high-traffic or high-moisture areas
• May not increase the value of your home as much as traditional tile

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with my decision to paint my shower tile. It was a cost-effective way to update the look of my bathroom without breaking the bank. The process was relatively easy, and the end result looks great. However, I do suggest being cautious about using painted tile in high-moisture areas, as it may not hold up as well as traditional tile.

FAQs

Q: Can you paint shower tile that is already painted?

A: It is possible to paint over already painted shower tile, but it is important to properly prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding the existing paint before applying a new coat.

Q: How long does painted shower tile last?

A: The longevity of painted shower tile can vary depending on the quality of the paint and the amount of use and moisture in the area. It is recommended to touch up the paint job periodically as needed.

Q: Can you paint ceramic shower tile?

A: Yes, ceramic shower tile can be painted using a paint specifically formulated for tile.