Paint or Tile Over Tile

Tile Transformation: Paint it or Plank it (Almost!)


Intro (0:00-1:00)


Tired of your outdated tile? Don't want the mess of a full demo? You've got options!


Introduce the two main contenders: painting over tile and tiling over tile.


Disclaimer: We'll break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide what's right for your project.


Painting Over Tile (1:00-7:00)


The Allure of Paint:


Budget-friendly and a quick way to change the look.


Great for a style refresh or covering dated tile.


Can turn a bland wall into a focal point.


The Reality Check:


Not a long-term fix compared to original tile.


Paint can chip, scratch, and peel, especially in high-traffic or high-moisture areas.


Grout lines disappear leading to a less defined look.


Generally not recommended for floor tile due to wear.


Painting shower tiles is also generally not recommended due to direct water exposure, though specialized products exist.


Key to Success: Preparation!


Clean thoroughly with a degreasing soap like Krud Kutter or TSP. Ensure the surface is squeaky clean.


Sand the tiles (100-200 grit sandpaper) to create a better surface for adhesion.


Crucial step: Prime with a high-adhesion primer like STIX primer. This helps the paint bond to the glossy tile surface.


Choosing the Right Paint:


Use multiple thin coats of a semi-gloss finish for a tile-like shine.


For bathrooms and high humidity, use a mildew-resistant paint like Aura Bath & Spa.


Consider waterborne alkyd paints for a durable, high-end finish, such as Behr Cabinet & Trim Enamel.


For areas with permanent water contact (like showers), a 2-component epoxy-based tile paint (tile paint 2K) might be an option, requiring mixing resin and hardener.


Application Tips: Roll the primer/paint, then brush into grout lines, then smooth with the roller.


Remember: Paint can chip and peel, especially in tough areas.


Tiling Over Tile (7:00-13:00)


The Promise of Permanence:


A more permanent and durable solution compared to paint.


The Complexities:


Generally more complex and costly than painting.


Requires more expertise.


Foundation First: Assessing Your Existing Tile:


Crucially, the old tile must be in good shape.


It needs to be solidly attached. Perform a tap test with a wood mallet; hollow sounds indicate loose tiles. Loose tiles should NOT be tiled over.


The surface must be flat and level.


No cracks, crumbling grout, or signs of moisture. Tiling over leaks is a bad idea.


Preparation is Still Key:


Clean the existing tile thoroughly.


You cannot apply thinset directly to old tile because it won't stick. Especially glossy or polished tile.


Use a bonding primer specifically designed for tiling over tile, such as ECO Prim Grip or Prime and Bond from Laticrete. This creates a gritty surface for the mortar to bond to.


Mix the primer well before application. Apply with a roller or brush.


Installation: Proceed with standard tile installation techniques.


Potential Drawbacks:


The added thickness of the new tile can cause problems with door clearances, thresholds, and other fittings.


Consider the transition to adjoining rooms.


Increased weight, especially on walls, could be an issue.


If you ever remove the tile, you'll have two layers to deal with.


Conclusion (13:00-15:00)


Quick recap of the pros and cons of painting vs. tiling over.


Painting is budget-friendly and quick for a style update but not long-term and has limitations in wet/high-traffic areas.


Tiling over is more permanent and durable but more complex, costly, and requires a solid foundation and proper prep.


Ultimately, the right method depends on your budget, desired longevity, the condition of your existing tile, and the location of the project.


Thorough preparation and using the right materials are crucial for success with either method.


Consider consulting professionals for advice.


Outro (15:00-16:00)


Thank listeners for tuning in.


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