A few years ago, my husband and I bought an older home with a lot of potential. However, the bathroom floors were covered in outdated, dingy tile that desperately needed an update. We didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a complete remodel, so I did some research and decided to try painting the tile floors with chalk paint.
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint is a type of paint that has a matte, chalky finish. It’s great for giving furniture and decorative items a vintage, shabby chic look. However, it can also be used on floors and walls to create a unique, textured look.
Why Use Chalk Paint on Tile Floors?
Painting tile floors with chalk paint is a budget-friendly way to update your home without the cost of a complete remodel. It’s also a great way to add some character and personality to your space.
Step-by-Step Guide for Painting Tile Floors With Chalk Paint
- Clean the tile floors thoroughly with a degreaser and allow them to dry completely.
- Sand the tile floors lightly to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
- Apply a coat of primer to the tile floors and allow it to dry completely.
- Apply the first coat of chalk paint to the tile floors using a roller or a brush.
- Allow the first coat of chalk paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.
- Apply a third coat of chalk paint if necessary.
- Seal the tile floors with a coat of polyurethane sealer to protect the paint from wear and tear.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Painting Tile Floors With Chalk Paint
- Choose a neutral color for the chalk paint to create a timeless look.
- Use stencils to create a pattern on the tile floors.
- Experiment with different colors and finishes of chalk paint to create a unique look.
- Use a high-quality brush or roller for a smooth, even finish.
- Allow plenty of time for the paint to dry between coats.
- Apply the paint in thin, even layers to avoid drips and bubbles.
- Use a sealer specifically designed for use on painted floors.
- Consider adding a rug or mat to high-traffic areas to protect the paint.
- Use a degreaser to clean the floors regularly to maintain the paint’s finish.
- Be patient and take your time to achieve the best possible result.
Pros and Cons of Painting Tile Floors With Chalk Paint
As with any home improvement project, there are pros and cons to painting tile floors with chalk paint.
Pros:
- Cost-effective alternative to a complete remodel
- Can add character and personality to your space
- Easy to apply with minimal prep work
- Can be customized with different colors and finishes
- Can be sealed for durability
Cons:
- May not be as durable as traditional tile flooring
- May require regular touch-ups or reapplication of paint
- May not be suitable for high-traffic areas
- May not be suitable for wet areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens
- May not increase the resale value of your home
My Personal Review of Painting Tile Floors With Chalk Paint
Overall, I was very happy with the results of painting our tile floors with chalk paint. The floors looked much more modern and fresh, and the process was relatively easy and budget-friendly. However, I did notice that the paint started to wear away in high-traffic areas after a few months, so I had to touch up those areas with more paint. Additionally, the paint wasn’t as durable as traditional tile flooring, so I wouldn’t recommend it for areas that get a lot of use, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
FAQs
Can you paint over tile floors?
Yes, you can paint over tile floors with the proper preparation and materials. Chalk paint is a popular choice for this type of project.
Do you need to sand tile floors before painting?
Yes, it’s recommended to sand tile floors lightly before painting to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
Will the paint wear off of tile floors?
Depending on the amount of use and foot traffic, the paint may wear off of tile floors over time. However, using a sealer and regular touch-ups can help to maintain the paint’s finish.