How To Paint a Tile Backsplash

Painting your tile backsplash is a quick, affordable way to update your kitchen without the hassle or cost of a full renovation. Most homeowners can do the project themselves in only a day or two, including time for drying. In the video above, This Old House host Kevin O’Connor shows how to paint a tile backsplash for professional-looking results, turning a dated terracotta surface into a clean, white finish.

Painting Preparation

Skipping or rushing through the process can lead to poor adhesion and an uneven coat, so take your time to prepare and complete each step correctly.

Gathering Materials

Before starting, check that you have all the necessary tools and materials:

• 1 1/2-inch angled sash paintbrush
• 4-inch foam roller
• 400-grit sandpaper
• Calcium rust cleaner
• Clean rags
• Epoxy paint kit designed for tile (such as Rust-Oleum’s Specialty Bath and Tile 2-Part Refinishing Kit)
• Fans for ventilation
• Latex gloves
• Painter’s tape
• Plastic drop cloths
• Scouring pad
• Scraper
• Tub and tile cleaner

Cleaning the Surface

Cleaning removes grease, grime, and other residues that can prevent the paint from sticking. Follow these steps to clean the tile:

1. Remove the switch and outlet cover plates.
2. Cover countertops and appliances with plastic drop cloths and secure with painter’s tape.
3. Scrape off any existing caulk from the tile surface.
4. Clean the tile thoroughly with a tub and tile cleaner, paying extra attention to areas behind the stove to remove all grease.
5. Rinse the surface with clean water and allow it to dry completely.

Two-Step Etching for Better Adhesion: Even when using an epoxy coating specifically designed for tile, cleaning alone isn’t enough to guarantee a strong bond. After scrubbing, etch the tile in two steps: first, go over the entire surface with a calcium rust cleaner applied with abrasive pads, then follow with a second etching step. This roughens the glossy tile surface and gives the new coating something to grip.

Pro Tip: When cleaning tile for painting, use a bleach-and-water mix from a spray bottle and scrub everything with a scouring pad. As demonstrated on a This Old House project, the area behind the stove deserves extra time and attention because “that’s typically a spot that’s got more grease on the wall.” The goal is to get the surface the cleanest it’s ever been before moving on to etching and painting.

Etching the Tile

Etching helps the paint adhere by roughening the glossy surface of the tile. This step allows the epoxy to grip better, leading to a more lasting and resilient finish. Here’s how to etch the tile:

1. Apply a calcium rust cleaner to the tile using an abrasive pad, working it into the surface.
2. After the initial etching, use 400-grit sandpaper to degloss the tile.
3. Wipe down the entire surface with a clean, damp rag to remove any residue.
4. Allow the surface to dry completely for at least 15 minutes.
5. Clean the work area, as dust can interfere with paint application.

Tile Backsplash Painting Process

With preparation complete, you’re ready to begin painting your tile backsplash.

Mixing the Paint

Mixing the paint components leads to consistent color and texture, which is necessary for a professional finish. Mix the paint as follows:

1. Open windows and set up fans for ventilation. Epoxy paint has strong fumes that are harmful to breathe in.
2. Wear latex gloves, and mix parts A and B separately in their own containers.
3. Combine the two parts and stir thoroughly for two minutes.

Important: According to a This Old House Magazine guide on epoxy coatings, you should begin stirring the epoxy paint, then slowly pour the hardener into it — making sure to scrape out every last bit of the hardener into the paint. Stir the two components for a full 3 minutes until they are fully blended. Then place the lid loosely back on the can and set it aside, away from the sun, for 30 minutes. The can may feel warm to the touch as the chemicals react with one another.

Pro Tip: Once the epoxy is mixed and the induction period is complete, you’ll have a limited window to apply it. As noted in a This Old House segment on epoxy application, the epoxy has about 2 to 2.5 hours of pot life — so don’t mix up any more than you need ahead of time.

Applying the First Coat

The first coat prevents lines or streaks from forming, leading to a smooth, uniform coat. Apply it with these steps:

1. Use a 1 1/2-inch angled brush to paint the grout lines and cut in around the edges.
2. Follow closely behind with a 4-inch foam roller, applying paint to the tile surfaces.
3. Work in small sections to maintain a wet edge, checking for even coverage. Maintaining a wet edge helps with blending the paint seamlessly across the surface.
4. Allow the coat to dry for one hour.

Applying the Second Coat

The final coat solidifies the base you’ve created with the first coat, adding color richness and coverage. Attention to detail during this step provides a crisp, professional appearance that looks like new tiling. Here’s how to apply the second coat:

1. Once the first coat is dry, repeat the process with the brush and roller.
2. Be more precise with the brush, keeping it within the grout lines.
3. Roll one tile at a time to avoid overlapping onto grout lines.
4. Allow the second coat to dry completely, typically about an hour.

Caulking and Reassembly

Caulking seals gaps and protects from moisture, which is key in a kitchen environment. Giving the paint and caulk time to set improves their durability. Make sure the backsplash stays in top condition for longer with the following steps:

1. Apply a bead of caulk between the countertop and the backsplash.
2. Smooth the caulk with your finger or a caulk tool for a clean finish.
3. To prevent outlet covers and switch plates from sticking to the newly painted surface, wait at least 24 hours before replacing them.

Tile Backsplash Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends the life of your paint job. Here’s how to maintain your newly painted tile backsplash:

• Avoid scrubbing or using abrasive cleaners for the first week.
• Clean the surface with a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
• Touch up any scratches promptly to prevent further damage.
• Regularly check for any signs of wear and address them quickly.