Ceramic bathroom shower tiles: Can it be painted over?

Sultano · 12-19-2005, 10:44 AM

The tiles are in perfect condition but the rest of the bathroom is not. I'm on a budget and time constraints and do not want to redo the tiles. The paint scheme I have planned will clash with the color of the tiles. So can it be painted over by a DIYer? And if so, with what kind of paint? And can this paint be purchased in Home Depot or Lowes? Also, would I need a sealer? Lastly, any type of prep I need to do to make this possible? I appreciate any help. Thanks and Merry Christmas?

Zero Punch · 12-19-2005, 01:05 PM

I'd change the color scheme. Only places I seen painted tile are old service stations on long ago bypassed roads and road houses where thay only serve beer in a can.

Teetorbilt · 12-19-2005, 07:13 PM

My experience with tile painting is that it's cheaper, easier and better looking to re-tile.

If you are determined to try it; you can buy silicon carbide (wet or dry) paper to fit orbital sanders, I would buy about a 120#. Once the surface is scuffed, go with a high quality, 2 part epoxy paint. I like the marine stuff, a gal. should go for about $70-80 plus hardener, $35-40, plus reducer, $20-25. It's not cheap paint.

Let me know if you decide to try it, there are lots of tricks and warnings.

K2eoj · 12-19-2005, 08:10 PM

They tried painting tiles last year at the YMCA I go to using some special stuff the depot sells. They kept touching it up for about 3 months and then powerwashed it all off. I would guess it cost them 5-8 k/ locker room to learn this lesson. This year they retiled everything.

Teetorbilt · 12-21-2005, 11:07 PM

One of tiles best features is that it's impervious to almost everything. THAT's why it is used.