How to paint bathroom floor tiles

Tiles tend to be the most common flooring option in the bathroom, but they can get worn or stained over time. Looking to give your old tiles a contemporary edge? It might surprise you to learn that it is absolutely possible to paint your bathroom floor tiles – just as long as you use the right type of paint! The process is fairly straightforward but will require some time and concentration; bear in mind that you also won't be able to access your bathroom while you work. However, if you follow a few basic steps, your bathroom makeover should be complete within the space of a weekend.

The following steps can be applied to all types of tiles, even those on your walls. Of course, not all types of paint are suitable for applying to flooring or tiles; be sure to use the right type of paint for a great result.

Steps 

1. Clean and prepare your tiles

2. Apply a primer

3. Apply a first coat of tile paint

4. Apply a second coat of paint

When applying paint to floors it's crucial to start by preparing your surface properly. If you want to avoid chipping or flaking down the line, you'll have to be thorough in these initial stages of the process.

Start by thoroughly cleaning the tiles to give the paint the best chance of adhering properly.

Use a tile cleaner to scrub the surface, paying special attention to the grout which is where most of the dirt will be; you might want to use a toothbrush for this part.

Tackle any ingrained dirt with a solvent-based cleaner; this should work to remove any oily residue.

Once your tiles are squeaky clean, you may want to lightly sand down the surface to encourage the paint to stick to your surface. If you do, use a fine grit sandpaper and dust and clean the floor again when you're done.

It's important to note that paint won't mask any broken or chipped tiles. You might want to think about investing in new tiles if your current floor is beyond repair.

This step may not be necessary as some tile or floor paints already contain a primer; it all depends on the type of paint you've bought.

Primer should be applied in exactly the same way as a coat of paint; follow the instructions below to find out how to proceed. One coat of primer should usually suffice.

As you'll find out, painting a floor isn't really much different to painting a wall.

• It's a good idea to use an extendible pole with your paint roller to save you straining your back as you paint.

• Protect the base of your walls or skirting boards with masking tape.

• Mix the paint as soon as you open it using a paddle mixer.

• Pour the paint into the paint tray.

• Start applying paint to the edges using an angled brush. You might have to apply a bit of force to get into the grout.

• Work in small sections using a paint roller to apply paint in one direction and then go over these sections in the other direction.

• Coat your entire floor in paint making sure to work from the end of the bathroom towards the door to ensure you can leave the room without stepping in wet paint!

• It's best to remove the masking tape before the paint dries, especially if you've accidentally gone over the edges.

• Leave the floor to dry. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying times. This will vary depending on the type of paint you've chosen. The paint needs to be dry to the touch before you move on to applying your second coat.

Sanding your first coat of paint lightly with sandpaper will allow your second coat to stick better. Of course the idea isn't to remove the first coat but simply to create enough texture to encourage adherence.

• Use a fine grit sandpaper.

• When you're done, dust down and clean your surface.

• Apply your masking tape once more.

• Tackle the edges first and apply the second coat according to the instructions set out above.

Leave the floor paint to cure entirely before replacing your bathroom furniture or walking on the surface.

Required skills

Just about anyone should be able to paint a tile floor. No particular skills are required beyond using a roller, applying masking tape and cleaning your tools afterwards!

Required time 

2 days approx.

The length of time it takes to paint your floor depends on the size of the bathroom and how long your paint takes to dry.

Number of people required 

1 person

Tools and equipment 

• Edging brush

• Paint roller

• Mixing paddle

• Masking tape

• Paint tray

• Solvent-based cleaner

• Floor cleaner

• Sponge

• Sandpaper

• Extendible pole

• Tile paint

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Protective gloves

• Mask

• Safety goggles

• Painting overalls

Please note: this is a non-exhaustive list; be sure to match your personal protective equipment to the job at hand.