Outdated tiles are a glaring eyesore that nobody wants. Maybe the tile hasn’t been changed since the 70s, or maybe it just isn’t your style. Sure, it is possible to reposition your home yourself, but not without extensive research and loads of accessories and equipment – including a wet saw for cutting tiles. This whole process can be overwhelming for a new do-it-yourselfer. You could also pay a professional to rip out and replace your old tile, but of course that comes at a price. But there is another option: freshen up the old with a simple coat of paint.
How to prepare old tiles for painting
In the best case scenario, your current tile is in perfect condition – it’s just out of date and needs to be reworked. In this case, no real preparation is required other than a good scrubbing. If you have nicks or scratches in the tile, you will need to fill, polish, and clean the tile. Such a job requires a spatula and some caulking.
Before filling the holes, make sure the tile is thoroughly cleaned and free of dirt, grime, or debris. Next, wipe the tile dry with a microfiber cloth. Once the tile is completely dry, take your putty and smooth it out in the cracks and holes. At the same time, wipe off the excess so that the tile surface is even. After the caulking dries, use a sander and sand the tiles so they are smooth.
Instructions for priming and painting tiles
After the tile cracks have been filled, smoothed and cleaned, you are ready to paint. There are two types of paint that adhere to hard surfaces. Latex or epoxy paint are best for painting concrete, bricks, and tiles. Latex paint is a less toxic option, but it is easily prone to wear and tear, especially in areas with lots of water (e.g. bathroom or kitchen splashbacks). Epoxy paint is available in a limited range of colors, but it can withstand moisture and moisture, making it a more durable option for your bathroom tile and floor. The Epoxy paint fumes are quite harshHowever, make sure you have adequate ventilation before you begin.
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Before applying any paint, you need to apply a primer. The primer is a special mixture that helps the paint adhere to surfaces. Once the primer has dried, you’ll need to use a basecoat. The basecoat is the first coat of epoxy (or latex) of your choice. Some brands of colors offer a combination of primer and basecoat to minimize time and effort.
After the base coat dries, you’ll want to apply a top coat. The Top coat acts as a sealant for longer lasting paint color and durability. This is particularly important for tiles in high-traffic areas of the home, such as B. Toilets and bathrooms. Paint company Rustoleum recommends applying the topcoat at least six hours after the basecoat so that it is completely dry before rolling up the next coat. Let the paint dry for about 24 hours and then enjoy your newly updated space.
