Painting floor tiles: A guide to the challenging DIY project

Painting floor tiles is a challenging and time-consuming DIY project, but with the right instructions and preparation, it can lead to impressive results. In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to tackle this challenge and give your floor tiles in the bathroom, kitchen or hallway, for example, a new, exciting look.

Important differences when painting wall and floor tiles

Let's get one thing out of the way right away: painting floor tiles is much easier than painting Wall tiles significantly more complex.

Wall tiles are less stressed, so normal wall paint or even chalk paint is usually sufficient if a matt finish is required. Preparation takes less time, as aesthetic aspects often take centre stage.

In contrast to this Floor tiles a special hard-wearing lacquer or tile lacquer (so-called two-component lacquers), as they have to withstand increased loads. Preparation is more complex, with the need to remove old sealants, and slip resistance is crucial, especially in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. The focus here should be on durability and safety as well as aesthetics.

Health aspects and environmental standards

It is important to note that tile lacquer contains solvents and therefore some Health risks harbours. Good ventilation and the wearing of a protective mask should be ensured during application. The selection of high-quality tile paints minimises the risk of harmful effects on health and the environment.

Painting floor tiles - instructions

The preparation

Preparation for varnishing and painting floor tiles is a crucial step in achieving a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result. Here are some important points to bear in mind:

1. cleaning 

The first step is to thoroughly clean the tiles to remove dirt, grease and other impurities. Thorough cleaning is important as the colour can only adhere properly to a clean surface. Use a suitable tile cleaner for this.

2. removal of old sealants 

If there are old sealants on the floor tiles, you must remove them. This can be done by sanding or using special removers. A smooth surface allows the colour to adhere better.

3. repair of cracks and damage 

The next step is to check the floor tiles for cracks or other damage. Small cracks can be repaired with liquid plastic or levelling compound. Larger damage may require the removal and replacement of the affected tiles.

4. careful sanding 

Lightly sand the surface of the floor tiles to roughen them. This improves the adhesion of the colour. Use sanding fleece or sandpaper with a grain size of around 300 or more. You should not skip this step, especially on high-traffic surfaces in the bathroom or kitchen.

5. dust removal 

After sanding, it is important to remove all dust particles from the floor tiles. A clean substrate is crucial for an even coating result.

6. checking the joints 

In the next step, check the joints between the floor tiles for damage. Repair damaged joints with grout white or grout and remove excess material thoroughly.

7. barrier primer (optional) 

Depending on the condition of the floor tiles and the chosen colour, it may be advisable to apply a barrier primer. This ensures an even colouring of the paint and prevents the original colour of the floor tiles from shining through.

8. adhesive primer 

Apply an adhesion primer as the last step of preparation to improve the adhesion of the paint. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying times.

Careful preparation forms the basis for a successful floor tile painting project. Observe the specific requirements of the chosen colour and follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimum results.

Painting

After thorough preparation, you can start with the actual painting of the floor tiles. Here are important considerations you should bear in mind.

Pitfalls and tips:

  • Avoid applying too much paint/varnish at once to prevent dripping and build-up.
  • Work with good ventilation and wear a breathing mask if necessary.
  • Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions exactly regarding drying times and application.

1. selection of the colour

In the first step of the cancellation process, select a high quality Paint that is particularly suitable for floor tiles, especially if the area you are going to paint is exposed to increased stress, for example in the bathroom or kitchen. Epoxy paints or two-component floor tile paints are robust and abrasion-resistant and suitable for use with increased wear and tear.

2. apply base coat 

Then apply the base coat to the prepared floor tiles. Use a brush for corners and edges and a paint roller for the surfaces. Make sure to spread the colour evenly to achieve an attractive result and an even surface. Please note that the tile paint will not yet show its final colour intensity after the first coat.

Important: Observe drying times! 

Allow the basecoat to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may take several hours. Ensure that the room is well ventilated.

3. second coat

Apply a second coat once the basecoat is completely dry. Observe the drying times again. A second coat ensures an even and hard-wearing surface.

4. apply sealer

After the final coat of colour, you can apply a sealant. This protects the floor tiles from wear and tear and makes cleaning easier. Use a clear tile sealer for this.

5. Silikonfugen erneuern

Warten Sie nach dem letzten Anstrich etwa zwei Tage, bevor Sie die Silikonfugen erneuern. Achten Sie für ein professionelles und ansprechendes Finish insbesondere darauf, dass die Fugen sauber und gleichmäßig sind.

6. curing of the sealant

The final step: Allow the sealer to cure for several days before entering the room again or cleaning the painted floor tiles. The exact curing time depends on the sealer used.

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