Did you know that you can paint tile and grout? Yes, it’s absolutely possible, and it can be a total game-changer for outdated spaces in your home!
When we first moved into our 1980s-era home, we were met with an overwhelming amount of dusty rose and orange oak in the living and dining rooms. It wasn’t just the walls and trim there were also three bay windows adorned with rosy-hued tiles that made the space feel even more dated. While painting the walls and trim freshened up the space, those pinkish window sills still stuck out like a sore thumb. What’s a homeowner to do? Of course, paint them!
The Tile Painting Process
I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive about painting tile and grout. Would the paint hold up? Would it look natural? But I decided to take the plunge, and I’m so glad I did! Here’s how I did it:
- Prepping the Surface – I cleaned the tile thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any dust, dirt, or oil residue. A clean surface is essential for ensuring that the paint adheres properly.
- Priming – I used Kilz oil-based primer as the first layer. This step is crucial because it helps the paint bond with the tile surface.
- Painting – I applied semi-gloss trim paint in a bright white color. This finish not only gave the tile a polished look but also made it easier to clean.
- Sealing – While I didn’t seal the window sill tiles, if you are painting floor tiles, it’s a good idea to apply a clear polyurethane sealant to protect against wear and tear.
A Stunning Transformation
After completing the project, the window sills blended seamlessly with the rest of the space, and the entire room looked so much fresher and more modern. The painted tile made a dramatic impact, and it was one of the easiest and most affordable upgrades we’ve done in the house.
2017 Dining Room Update
Seven years later, the painted tile sills are still holding up beautifully! I’ve refreshed them with an occasional coat of paint, but overall, they remain in excellent condition. If you want to see how this space has evolved, check out A Craigslist dining table makeover story.
Living Room Tile Painting
In our living room, the bay window sill also had the same dusty rose tiles, though they were partially hidden behind the couch. Still, I decided to paint them white as well. The result? The newly painted tile reflected light beautifully and made the entire space feel brighter and more cohesive.
2017 Living Room Update
Years later, the painted window sill still looks fantastic. The white paint makes the tile virtually disappear, helping the room feel light and airy. I can’t believe I hesitated to do this! If you’d like to see how paint transformed our living room, check out Neutral living room with coastal touches.
Painting Floor Grout in the Foyer
Beyond window sills, I also experimented with painting the grout on our foyer floor. Our entryway was covered in dated 1980s tile that Mark and I both disliked. The grout lines were dark and discolored, making the entire floor look grimy no matter how much I cleaned it.
One day, in a moment of frustration, I spilled paint all over the foyer floor (yes, my clumsiness at its finest). Surprisingly, the white paint that landed on the grout lines held up quite well despite heavy foot traffic and muddy paw prints from our Saint Bernard. That accidental spill gave me an idea—why not intentionally paint the grout to lighten it?
Here’s how I did it:
- Choosing the Paint – I used a water-based white primer from the garage and mixed in a little brown to create a custom shade that closely matched the tile color.
- Applying the Paint – Using a small artist’s brush, I carefully painted over the grout lines, wiping off any excess paint from the tile surface with a paper towel.
- Letting It Dry – I allowed the painted grout to dry completely before stepping on it, ensuring a long-lasting finish.
The results? A significant improvement! While the floor was still not my favorite, the lightened grout lines made it far less noticeable and helped the room feel cleaner and more cohesive.
2017 Foyer Update
To my surprise, the painted grout lasted about two years, even in a high-traffic area with three kids and a large dog. When it was time for a refresh, I opted for a color closer to the tile shade for a more seamless look. While we still plan to replace the tile with hardwood when we renovate the kitchen, this temporary fix made a world of difference in the meantime. If you want to see how our foyer has transformed, check out DIY installation of a seagrass runner completes a stair makeover in an 80s era colonial.
Should You Paint Tile and Grout?
If you’re dealing with outdated tile but aren’t ready (or able) to replace it just yet, painting can be a fantastic and budget-friendly alternative. Here are a few reasons why you should consider it:
- Cost-effective – A can of paint and primer is far cheaper than retiling an entire space.
- Quick and easy – Unlike major renovations, painting tile and grout is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in a day or two.
- Transformative – The right paint can completely change the look and feel of a space, making it feel fresh and modern.
Need more inspiration? Check out Andrea’s painted tile in her daughter’s bathroom to see another incredible tile makeover!
For tons of other doable DIYs, browse my PROJECT GALLERY.
Thank you for visiting Shine Your Light! I hope this post encourages you to take on your own painting tile and grout project. You won’t regret it!
