Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to paint your bathroom or kitchen tiles and replace them, inspired by Akka Home's unique approach.
In this article, we'll cover what you'll need, the exact steps, top tips, cost considerations, and some frequently asked questions.
What You’ll Need to Paint Your Bathroom or Kitchen Tiles?
This is a step-by-step guide for painting directly over existing tiles to give your bathroom or kitchen a refreshed look.
You'll need a few essential tools and materials:
- Tile cleaner and scrubber
- Sandpaper (recommended 240 grit)
- Primer (optional)
- Tile paint (preferably a high-quality, tile-specific paint)
- Paintbrushes and rollers
- Painter's tape or masking tape
- Sponge or scourer
- Cleaning solution
- Safety gear (e.g. gloves, goggles)
Exact Steps You’ll Need to Know to Paint Your Tiles
- Prepare the Tiles: Start by cleaning the tiles thoroughly with a tile cleaner and scrubber. This ensures that the paint adheres better to the tiles.
- Sand the Tiles: Use sandpaper to rough up the glaze on the tiles, which helps the paint adhere better. Be sure to wipe away any dust after sanding.
- Prime the Tiles: If desired, apply a primer to the tiles before painting. This can help the paint adhere better and provide a more durable finish.
- Paint the Tiles: Using a paintbrush or roller, apply the tile paint to the tiles. Start with the grout lines first, then fill in the rest of the tile surface. Apply several thin coats to avoid heavy brush marks and ensure the paint doesn't peel.
- Clean Up: Once the paint is dry, clean up any spills or residue with a sponge or scourer and a cleaning solution.
Top 5 Tips for Painting Tiles
- Lots of Thin Layers: Apply several thin coats of paint instead of a few thick ones for a better finish and durability.
- The Right Paint: Choose a high-quality, tile-specific paint for the best results.
- Grout Lines: If desired, paint over the grout lines for a flat finish. Alternatively, use a grout pen to maintain visible grout lines.
- Cleaning: Ensure the tiles are sparkling clean before painting to ensure better adhesion.
- Experiment & Have Fun! Don't be afraid to try different colours and patterns to create a unique look for your space.
How Much Does It Cost to Paint Tiles?
The cost of painting tiles can vary depending on the size of the area and the paint used. On average, you can expect to spend between AUD $20 and $50 per square metre for tile paint.
FAQs For Painting Tiles
Can I paint over grout?
Yes, you can paint over grout, but it may not provide the same finish as painting over clean tiles.
Can I paint tiles in a shower?
While it's possible to paint tiles in a shower, it may not be the most durable solution. It's recommended to avoid painting tiles in areas exposed to water, such as showers or behind sinks.
How long does it take for tile paint to dry?
Tile paint typically takes six hours to dry, but it's best to wait overnight for the best results.
By following these steps and tips, you can successfully paint your bathroom or kitchen tiles, transforming your space with a unique and personalised look.
Akka Home's Approach to Painting Tiles
We take a unique approach to painting Delft tiles, first glazing a bisque tile with white underglaze, followed by hand drawing and then painting each design with our signature Delft blue glazes.
These hand painted tiles are then fired in a kiln between 900°C and 1,150°C, cooled, cleaned, and packaged for delivery.
How to Remove and Replace Old Tiles with Akka Home Delft Tiles: A Step-by-Step Approach
In addition to painting your tiles, you can also create a bespoke look by removing and replacing old tiles with our Delft Tiles.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Prep Work
- Pre-plan how you want to lay out your Delft Tiles.
- Clear the area of furniture or fixtures.
- Protect surroundings with plastic sheets.
- Gear up with safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
- Chip away the grout with a chisel and hammer.
- Drill holes in the tile's centre.
- Lift the tile using the chisel.
- Scrape off old tile adhesive or mortar.
- Sweep debris.
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth.
- Spread tile adhesive to the surface with a notched trowel.
- Apply a smaller amount of tile adhesive to the back of the tile.
- Position and press the tile. Continue to lay all your Delft Tiles in your desired arrangement.
- Let tile adhesive set for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare and apply grout between tiles.
- After 15 minutes, clean with a damp sponge.
- Protect grout lines with sealer.
Follow these streamlined steps to refresh your space with new Akka Tiles effortlessly.
FAQs For Tile Removal
How do I remove old tiles?
Use a hammer and chisel to break up the tiles and remove the grout between them. Carefully pry up the tile pieces with a pry bar or chisel.
Can I replace tiles myself?
Yes, you can typically replace tiles yourself with the right tools and some patience.
How do I avoid damaging surrounding tiles when removing old ones?
Use a grout removal tool to carefully cut through the grout around the tile you want to remove, rather than just chipping at the tile.
How to Incorporate Akka Delft Tiles in Your Home
Here are some great ways you can use our tiles as decor in your home:
Kitchen Backsplash or Feature Wall: Our Delft tiles can be used as a decorative backsplash or feature wall in a kitchen. Because our tiles are heat, water, scratch and stain resistant, they're perfect for these high- traffic, high- use areas.
Bathroom Feature Wall: You can use our delft tiles to create a statement in the bathroom, highlighting key areas like a shower, freestanding tub, or just behind the vanity. They're the perfect choice to inject a bit of personality in an otherwise sterile room while providing protection in splash zones.
Accent Walls & Fireplaces: Beyond just kitchens and bathrooms, our delft tiles can be used to add a personalised touch to accent walls, fireplace surrounds and entryways. They can be styled together with other tiles or materials, or by themselves depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
Transform Your Space with Akka Tiles
Akka Home’s handpainted tiles are dedicated to enriching your tiling projects by marrying the rich tradition of Delft tiles with the demands of modern interior design.
Our extensive range is carefully selected to inspire your creative expression, allowing you to craft spaces that reflect your unique narrative.
Embracing the challenge to keep what is traditionally a luxury within reach, we offer these timeless design pieces at an affordable price.
For more information or to start your project with us, feel free to contact us.
Together, let's create timeless spaces that resonate with your personal style.