How to Reglaze Tile
Choose a refinishing kit., Read all of the kit instructions carefully., Replace any chipped or broken tiles., Remove the grout, if desired., Clean the tiles thoroughly., Wipe them down with sandpaper., Let the tiles dry., Mark off the area with...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Choose a refinishing kit.
These kits are sold at hardware and home repair stores as well as online.
Some just come with the epoxy paint, while others include rollers and sprayers for application.
Read over what each kit contains and compare prices to determine the best choice for you.
Expect to spend around $80-$100 for a kit with everything included., Before you start the glazing process, unpack your kit and spend some time going over the step-by-step instructions.
If you are unclear about the directions, look for a customer service number or helpline that you can call.
The instruction booklet will also tell you what kind of safety gear you’ll need.Pay close attention to any of the kit’s warning labels or notices.
For example, it might advise you that certain types of tile, such as laminate, are not good candidates for refinishing.
In this case, you may need to replace the tiles or talk with a professional installer., Refinishing can’t repair any heavily damaged tiles.
In fact, the new finish will probably make any imperfections even more obvious.
Your best option is to find the same size tile to replace the broken ones.
This means that you’ll need to chip that tile out and glue in a fresh one.If the refinishing glaze that you are using is opaque, don’t worry too much about matching the replacement tile’s color exactly with the old ones.
After all, they will all look the same after the paint coating.
Repair small cracks or minor chips by applying a polyester putty to the area and then smoothing it out.
This will make the tile waterproof once more and the repairs will be covered up by the refinishing process., If your grout is cracking, falling apart, or extremely moldy, then go ahead and chisel it out before moving forward.
Use a flat head screwdriver, small hammer, and utility knife to apply pressure to the caulk beads.
They may peel right up or you may need to gradually chip them away with the knife.
Always keep your hands away from the knife’s path and go slowly.This step can get pretty messy, so keep a vacuum close by to suck up the dust and debris.
You’ll want to replace the grout either before painting or after the epoxy paint has cured.
It is really your choice.
Grout covered with epoxy paint will be uniform and easier to clean.
But, some people like the look of grout lines. , Your kit will likely come with specific cleaning instructions.
It might ask you to mix together an enclosed powder with water and then scrub it on the tile.
If instructions are not provided, clean the tiles with bleach, a powdered cleaner (such as Comet), and a rust and lime remover.
After each cleaner application, do a full rinse with water.If you are working with kitchen tiles, use a degreaser cleaner or rubbing alcohol to remove any oily residue., Go over each tile with 400/600 grit sandpaper.
Choose the wet/dry type of paper, so that you can move on to sanding directly after cleaning.
Move your hand in small circles or back and forth motions and try to cover all tiles evenly.
Rinse off the tiles with water when you are finished.Remember that your goal is to remove any surface bumps and imperfections, not to sand it down to its base.
Sanding increases the lifespan of your refinishing job by allowing the epoxy paint to more fully adhered to the surface of your tiles.
Don’t get too discouraged if you can’t see clear results from your sanding.
Just keep going and rub your hands over the tile’s surface to feel the change in texture., Wait at least a day or two for the grout and tiles to fully dry before moving forward.
If you apply a refinishing paint to a wet surface, it will not stick as well and may even leave air bubbles behind., When the area is completely dry, apply a strip of tape to any wood trim or other surfaces that connect to the tile.
This will keep the epoxy paint from spreading beyond the tile.
Keep this tape on until a few minutes after you finish your final paint application., Before you start the application, make sure to put a tarp or even a sheet over the floors in the room where the tile is located.
This will keep them clean in the event that you accidently splatter or spill any epoxy paint.
When you are finished with your project simply gather this sheet up and toss it or clean it off elsewhere., Most people suggest opening as many windows as you can to let out some of the fumes from the painting process.
To get rid of the smell, try to keep them open for as long as you can, usually the entire day of application.If the day is warm or hot, opening the windows may shorten the drying time. , Some kits come with respirators or masks, high quality rubber gloves, and protective glasses.
If this is the case, go ahead and put these on before continuing.
If your kit does not provide these items, make sure to go out and purchase them in advance.
A respirator, in particular, is a great way to minimize your contact with the nasty fumes.Check that the gloves that you plan on using fit you well.
If your gloves are loose or baggy they may hurt your ability to apply the paint cleanly. , Depending on what your kit suggests, either use a primer meant for glossy ceramics or an acid-based deglosser.
These products make it easier for the epoxy paint to adhere to the surface of the tile.
Some kits come with the necessary primer, but in many cases you’ll have to purchase it separately.
Follow the primer directions carefully to make sure that you apply it correctly.Some suggest using a sprayer to apply the primer, instead of rolling or brushing it on.
This may prevent some stickiness, but you’ll likely want to practice with the sprayer beforehand, as they can sometimes be difficult to use., Most kits come with two separate paint cans: the activator and the base.
Grab each can and give it a good shake.
Then, slowly pour them together in your paint tray.
If the final mixture looks a little transparent or milky, that is okay.
It will handle a bit like glue and will dry solid, too., Pour the mixed paint into a sprayer or dip a brush into your paint pan.
If you are working with a brush, start with the edges first and work your way in.
You could even brush out the edges and then use a roller for the middle.
After your first coat is finished, give it at least two hour to dry.
Then, apply the next one.It’s generally best to use a foam roller, as it will leave less of a pattern on the tile.
And, if you use a paint pan, make sure to change out the liner and refresh the paint before applying a second coat.
Otherwise, you may end up with dried paint lumps on your tile., If your tile has a special border or extra embellishments, expect to go a little bit more slowly on these areas.
You may want to switch to a brush, so that you can get deeper into any indentions or prints., In between various steps, go outside of the room for a few minutes, take off your respirator, and breathe in the fresh air.
If you had to hunch over or lean down while painting, take a quick stretch before going back in., After applying your epoxy paint, you now have to wait for it to cure.
This is the time when the paint hardens to the point where you can get the tile wet without damaging the surface.
Epoxy coatings can dry in 2-3 days, but it is probably safer to leave it alone for a full week., An experienced tile worker or kitchen/bathroom remodeler can offer you some additional options beyond standard refinishing.
For example, some of them can spray on a primer followed by a urethane coating that mimics a glaze when buffed.
Make sure to go with a contractor that you trust and guarantee a competitive price by getting at least two bids. -
Step 2: Read all of the kit instructions carefully.
-
Step 3: Replace any chipped or broken tiles.
-
Step 4: Remove the grout
-
Step 5: if desired.
-
Step 6: Clean the tiles thoroughly.
-
Step 7: Wipe them down with sandpaper.
-
Step 8: Let the tiles dry.
-
Step 9: Mark off the area with painter’s tape.
-
Step 10: Cover the surrounding areas.
-
Step 11: Open up windows for ventilation.
-
Step 12: Put on any safety gear.
-
Step 13: Apply a primer.
-
Step 14: Mix the epoxy together.
-
Step 15: Apply at least two coats of paint or reglazing compound.
-
Step 16: Spend extra time with any decorative areas.
-
Step 17: Take breaks
-
Step 18: if needed.
-
Step 19: Give it ample time to dry.
-
Step 20: Hire a professional.
Detailed Guide
These kits are sold at hardware and home repair stores as well as online.
Some just come with the epoxy paint, while others include rollers and sprayers for application.
Read over what each kit contains and compare prices to determine the best choice for you.
Expect to spend around $80-$100 for a kit with everything included., Before you start the glazing process, unpack your kit and spend some time going over the step-by-step instructions.
If you are unclear about the directions, look for a customer service number or helpline that you can call.
The instruction booklet will also tell you what kind of safety gear you’ll need.Pay close attention to any of the kit’s warning labels or notices.
For example, it might advise you that certain types of tile, such as laminate, are not good candidates for refinishing.
In this case, you may need to replace the tiles or talk with a professional installer., Refinishing can’t repair any heavily damaged tiles.
In fact, the new finish will probably make any imperfections even more obvious.
Your best option is to find the same size tile to replace the broken ones.
This means that you’ll need to chip that tile out and glue in a fresh one.If the refinishing glaze that you are using is opaque, don’t worry too much about matching the replacement tile’s color exactly with the old ones.
After all, they will all look the same after the paint coating.
Repair small cracks or minor chips by applying a polyester putty to the area and then smoothing it out.
This will make the tile waterproof once more and the repairs will be covered up by the refinishing process., If your grout is cracking, falling apart, or extremely moldy, then go ahead and chisel it out before moving forward.
Use a flat head screwdriver, small hammer, and utility knife to apply pressure to the caulk beads.
They may peel right up or you may need to gradually chip them away with the knife.
Always keep your hands away from the knife’s path and go slowly.This step can get pretty messy, so keep a vacuum close by to suck up the dust and debris.
You’ll want to replace the grout either before painting or after the epoxy paint has cured.
It is really your choice.
Grout covered with epoxy paint will be uniform and easier to clean.
But, some people like the look of grout lines. , Your kit will likely come with specific cleaning instructions.
It might ask you to mix together an enclosed powder with water and then scrub it on the tile.
If instructions are not provided, clean the tiles with bleach, a powdered cleaner (such as Comet), and a rust and lime remover.
After each cleaner application, do a full rinse with water.If you are working with kitchen tiles, use a degreaser cleaner or rubbing alcohol to remove any oily residue., Go over each tile with 400/600 grit sandpaper.
Choose the wet/dry type of paper, so that you can move on to sanding directly after cleaning.
Move your hand in small circles or back and forth motions and try to cover all tiles evenly.
Rinse off the tiles with water when you are finished.Remember that your goal is to remove any surface bumps and imperfections, not to sand it down to its base.
Sanding increases the lifespan of your refinishing job by allowing the epoxy paint to more fully adhered to the surface of your tiles.
Don’t get too discouraged if you can’t see clear results from your sanding.
Just keep going and rub your hands over the tile’s surface to feel the change in texture., Wait at least a day or two for the grout and tiles to fully dry before moving forward.
If you apply a refinishing paint to a wet surface, it will not stick as well and may even leave air bubbles behind., When the area is completely dry, apply a strip of tape to any wood trim or other surfaces that connect to the tile.
This will keep the epoxy paint from spreading beyond the tile.
Keep this tape on until a few minutes after you finish your final paint application., Before you start the application, make sure to put a tarp or even a sheet over the floors in the room where the tile is located.
This will keep them clean in the event that you accidently splatter or spill any epoxy paint.
When you are finished with your project simply gather this sheet up and toss it or clean it off elsewhere., Most people suggest opening as many windows as you can to let out some of the fumes from the painting process.
To get rid of the smell, try to keep them open for as long as you can, usually the entire day of application.If the day is warm or hot, opening the windows may shorten the drying time. , Some kits come with respirators or masks, high quality rubber gloves, and protective glasses.
If this is the case, go ahead and put these on before continuing.
If your kit does not provide these items, make sure to go out and purchase them in advance.
A respirator, in particular, is a great way to minimize your contact with the nasty fumes.Check that the gloves that you plan on using fit you well.
If your gloves are loose or baggy they may hurt your ability to apply the paint cleanly. , Depending on what your kit suggests, either use a primer meant for glossy ceramics or an acid-based deglosser.
These products make it easier for the epoxy paint to adhere to the surface of the tile.
Some kits come with the necessary primer, but in many cases you’ll have to purchase it separately.
Follow the primer directions carefully to make sure that you apply it correctly.Some suggest using a sprayer to apply the primer, instead of rolling or brushing it on.
This may prevent some stickiness, but you’ll likely want to practice with the sprayer beforehand, as they can sometimes be difficult to use., Most kits come with two separate paint cans: the activator and the base.
Grab each can and give it a good shake.
Then, slowly pour them together in your paint tray.
If the final mixture looks a little transparent or milky, that is okay.
It will handle a bit like glue and will dry solid, too., Pour the mixed paint into a sprayer or dip a brush into your paint pan.
If you are working with a brush, start with the edges first and work your way in.
You could even brush out the edges and then use a roller for the middle.
After your first coat is finished, give it at least two hour to dry.
Then, apply the next one.It’s generally best to use a foam roller, as it will leave less of a pattern on the tile.
And, if you use a paint pan, make sure to change out the liner and refresh the paint before applying a second coat.
Otherwise, you may end up with dried paint lumps on your tile., If your tile has a special border or extra embellishments, expect to go a little bit more slowly on these areas.
You may want to switch to a brush, so that you can get deeper into any indentions or prints., In between various steps, go outside of the room for a few minutes, take off your respirator, and breathe in the fresh air.
If you had to hunch over or lean down while painting, take a quick stretch before going back in., After applying your epoxy paint, you now have to wait for it to cure.
This is the time when the paint hardens to the point where you can get the tile wet without damaging the surface.
Epoxy coatings can dry in 2-3 days, but it is probably safer to leave it alone for a full week., An experienced tile worker or kitchen/bathroom remodeler can offer you some additional options beyond standard refinishing.
For example, some of them can spray on a primer followed by a urethane coating that mimics a glaze when buffed.
Make sure to go with a contractor that you trust and guarantee a competitive price by getting at least two bids.
About the Author
Steven Tucker
Experienced content creator specializing in home improvement guides and tutorials.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: