Why paint old tiles?

When the tile surface is in good condition but its appearance needs updating, tile paint offers a cost-effective and quick alternative.

Sometimes it can be more sensible to paint rather than replace the entire tiling; the possibility to renew old surfaces without massive and messy demolition work. Compare the price of a paint can to new tiles.

What is required from tile paint? adhesion, durability?

We recommend choosing a paint specially designed for tiles, which is water-based, adheres well to smooth surfaces, and is suitable for moist areas.

For example, our Wall Paint or Al Fresco series offers very good adhesion and is washable also on tile walls and backsplashes, but not in areas with standing water, such as floors, saunas, or showers.

A good paint series for these targets meets the following criteria:

• Excellent adhesion to glazed or smooth surfaces (without paint peeling).
• Choose a paint that is specifically intended for tiles; like Al Fresco and the wall paint series.
• Check product information: "No primer needed," like Al Fresco and Frenchic wall paint series.
• Excellent durability – for wear, moisture, and cleaning.
• Suitability for areas with splash water, for example, kitchen backsplashes.
• Good guidance for surface preparation: cleaning, possible roughening, removal of silicone joints, etc.

Which tiles are not worth painting? 

There are situations and targets where painting is not the best option. Consider the wear and use of your specific target and make a decision accordingly. 

Frenchic series paints are not suitable for areas with standing water, such as bathtubs, basins, showers, or saunas. Spaces with very high humidity and poor ventilation are not ideal painting targets, such as swimming pool rooms, etc. 

We also do not recommend painting tile floors because the exceptional wear and usage of floors can cause surface scratches and thus negatively affect durability. However, if you decide to paint, for example, a tile floor, add protectors to furniture legs and be prepared for maintenance painting caused by wear. 

So, what tile surfaces can be painted? 

Kitchen backsplashes are the most common ceramic tile painting targets, as well as the tile walls of small and so-called dry guest toilets. 

Check out our customers' own tile painting projects and experiences in our FB group.

What is the best paint for tiles?

• A. Paint types: Al Fresco and wall paint (water-based, no priming needed)

• B. Example product in the picture: Wall paint Steaming Green

• C. Work stages and carefulness 

1. Before painting, make sure the surface is clean, dry, and free of grease.
2. Remove old silicone joints and clean the surface to be painted thoroughly.
3. Use high-quality masking tape for edging and remove the tapes on time.
4. Paint at least two coats – and let each coat dry according to the instructions: this ensures a durable result.

Let the paint dry properly before use according to the manufacturer's instructions for at least 48h – and then use it carefully for a few weeks. Add silicone to the dry painted surface for a polished and finished result.

You have a wide color chart available for painting tiles

Try to choose a color shade and gloss level for the tiles that suits the interior – painted tiles can have a big visual impact. Tile paint no longer has to be gray. 

Explore our extensive color range here. 

Practical tips and frequently asked questions

1. Do these paints really hold up on tiles?Answer: Absolutely, these two series: Al Fresco and the wall paint series are officially tested by the manufacturer for ceramic tiles. Our wall paint series is rated in the highest possible wet abrasion class and has been granted ISO class 1. 
   
2. What should be especially remembered?Careful preparation work is crucial for durability, as is following the manufacturer's general instructions, such as respecting drying times between coats. The drying time between coats is 2h for both series. 
3. Which series is better for painting tiles, Al Fresco or wall paint? Both are equally durable. However, note that the series have different shades and container sizes. If you have a lot to paint, a 2.5-liter container might be practical. If you are only painting kitchen backsplash tiles, a smaller 750ml can is sufficient. 
4. How do I care for and clean painted tile surfaces? Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and use only mild cleaning agents. Avoid bleach, magic erasers, disinfecting cleaners, and steam cleaning. Use non-scratching cleaning tools. 
5. How do I get extra protection for painted tile surfaces? You can add a matte Tuff Top Coat or a glossy Finishing Coat over the topcoat to provide the necessary extra protection. 
6. How does Frenchic differ from other tile paints? You get stunning shades and paint that especially levels out the surface - the result is smooth and beautiful. The fastest drying times on the market: 2h per coat, so you can finish your renovation faster. Odorless and drip-free is always a plus when working indoors. You can also use leftover paint for other home projects, saving you from waste. 

Read more here.

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