Painting ceramic tile is a practical and cost-effective way to transform kitchens, bathrooms, and floors without the expense of replacing the tile altogether. But the question most homeowners and DIYers ask is: what paint to use over ceramic tile to ensure it lasts, looks great, and doesn’t peel or chip?
Ceramic tile is known for being smooth, glossy, and resistant to moisture—all great qualities for a tile but challenging when it comes to painting. The key to a successful and durable tile painting project is choosing the right type of paint, paired with proper surface preparation and sealing.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what paint to use over ceramic tile, which types work best for different surfaces (walls, floors, showers, countertops), and how to ensure your painted tile resists water, foot traffic, and wear over time.
Understanding the Surface: Why Ceramic Tile Is Hard to PaintvBefore selecting what paint to use over ceramic tile, it’s important to understand why painting tile is different from painting other surfaces like drywall or wood.
Ceramic tile is:
- Glazed and non-porous, making it hard for paint to stick
- Moisture-resistant, especially in bathrooms and kitchens
- Prone to wear, especially on floors and countertops
- Often installed with grout lines that require special attention
These factors make it essential to choose a paint that not only adheres to slick surfaces but also resists moisture, scuffs, and regular cleaning. Not all paints can meet those demands.
What Paint to Use Over Ceramic Tile: Key Considerations
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what paint to use over ceramic tile, because the ideal choice depends on several variables:
- Location of the tile (wall vs. floor vs. countertop)
- Moisture exposure (kitchen backsplash, shower, bathroom floor)
- Traffic level (is it a high-use floor or a decorative accent?)
- Desired finish (matte, satin, gloss, etc.)
- Prep work you’re willing to do
Let’s break down the top-performing paint types that work well over ceramic tile based on these conditions.
1. Epoxy Paint: The Gold Standard for Durability
When it comes to what paint to use over ceramic tile, epoxy paint is often considered the most durable and long-lasting option. It’s especially ideal for high-moisture or high-traffic areas like:
- Bathroom and kitchen floors
- Showers
- Tub surrounds
- Countertops
Epoxy is a two-part coating that combines a resin and hardener, creating a strong, water-resistant bond to ceramic tile. It adheres better than most other paints and resists:
- Water penetration
- Mold and mildew
- Scratches
- Cleaning agents
Pros:
- Extremely durable and waterproof
- High-gloss or satin finish available
- Long-lasting (up to 10 years or more with care)
Cons:
- Requires careful mixing and application
- Strong fumes; needs ventilation
- Limited working time due to quick curing
Best for: Shower tiles, kitchen backsplashes, and any area exposed to moisture or abrasion.
2. Latex Acrylic Paint (with Bonding Primer)
If you’re painting ceramic tile walls that are not subject to heavy water exposure or abrasion (such as a laundry room wall or decorative bathroom feature), latex acrylic paint is a suitable and budget-friendly option.
Latex paint doesn’t naturally adhere well to slick tile, but with a quality bonding primer underneath, it can stick effectively. This combination is ideal for vertical surfaces where wear is minimal.
Pros:
- Easy to apply with brush or roller
- Quick-drying and low odor
- Budget-friendly
- Wide color and finish selection
Cons:
- Not durable enough for floors or wet areas unless sealed
- May chip over time if not properly primed and sealed
Best for: Walls, fireplace surrounds, wainscoting, and decorative tile accents.
3. Chalk Paint (with Topcoat)
While not often the first recommendation for tile, chalk paint can be used over ceramic surfaces when paired with a good primer and a polyurethane sealer. Chalk paint is known for its matte, rustic finish and is popular in farmhouse and vintage decor.
It adheres well to many surfaces with minimal prep and can create an aged or distressed look, which makes imperfections less noticeable.
Pros:
- No sanding required in many cases
- Great for vintage or artistic projects
- Soft, velvety finish
Cons:
- Not water-resistant without sealer
- Less durable than epoxy or latex
- Requires sealing with polyurethane or wax
Best for: Decorative tile projects, art pieces, backsplashes with minimal water contact.
4. Alkyd Paint: A Durable Alternative
Alkyd paint, also known as oil-modified latex or waterborne enamel, is another option when evaluating what paint to use over ceramic tile, especially for moderate-traffic areas. It combines the best qualities of oil-based and water-based paints, offering durability, adhesion, and smooth finish.
This type of paint can be used on:
- Tile walls
- Bathroom cabinets with ceramic tile inlays
- Low-traffic floors when paired with a sealer
Pros:
- Hard, durable finish
- Dries smoothly with minimal brush marks
- Good adhesion with a primer
Cons:
- Longer drying time
- May yellow slightly over time
- Requires good ventilation
Best for: Semi-wet areas, like powder room walls or mudroom tile.
5. Tile and Tub Refinishing Kits
These kits are specifically designed to refinish ceramic tile, tubs, and sinks, making them perfect for bathrooms and kitchens. They typically contain a 2-part epoxy-based paint, primer, and sometimes a sealer.
Brands like Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit are popular for DIYers who want professional-looking results.
Pros:
- Designed for slick, glossy tile
- High resistance to water and chemicals
- Kit contains everything you need
Cons:
- Prep and curing time are longer
- Limited color choices
- Requires exact mixing and timing
Best for: Shower walls, bathtub surrounds, high-moisture bathroom tiles.
How to Prepare Ceramic Tile for Painting
Even if you use the best paint, it won’t last if the surface isn’t prepared properly. Surface prep is the foundation of success when painting tile. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Clean Thoroughly
Remove all dirt, soap scum, grease, and mildew using a degreaser or TSP (trisodium phosphate). Any residue left behind can cause adhesion issues.
Step 2: Sand the Surface
Use 220–400 grit sandpaper to dull the glossy finish of glazed ceramic tile. You’re not removing the glaze completely—just giving the paint something to grip.
Step 3: Repair Grout and Chips
Fill any cracks or holes in the tile or grout with caulk or tile filler. Let dry completely and sand smooth.
Step 4: Apply Bonding Primer
This is especially important if you’re using latex or chalk paint. Choose a high-adhesion primer made for glossy surfaces. Let it dry fully per manufacturer instructions.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
When choosing what paint to use over ceramic tile, also consider your application tools for best results. You’ll need:
- High-quality paint brushes (angled and flat)
- Small foam rollers (for even application)
- Tack cloths or microfiber rags
- Sandpaper (220–400 grit)
- Bonding primer
- Chosen paint (epoxy, latex, alkyd, chalk, etc.)
- Painter’s tape
- Respirator mask (especially for epoxy or alkyd paints)
- Sealant or polyurethane topcoat (optional but recommended)
Painting Ceramic Tile Floors: What You Need to Know
Painting ceramic tile floors is riskier than walls or backsplashes due to heavy foot traffic. If you’re asking what paint to use over ceramic tile floors, epoxy or urethane-based paints are your best bet.
Key Points:
- Must be 100% clean, sanded, and primed
- Use slip-resistant additives in paint to prevent slipperiness
- Finish with multiple coats of polyurethane or epoxy topcoat
- Cure for at least 72 hours before walking on it
- Place rugs or mats in high-traffic zones to extend longevity
Painting Grout Lines: Should You Do It?
If you’re painting ceramic tile, you have two options for grout:
- Paint everything, including grout lines
- Use a separate grout colorant afterward
Painting the grout along with the tile can simplify the job but may not give the cleanest look. If you prefer contrast or precision, use grout pens or colorants post-painting to redefine the lines.
How Long Will Painted Ceramic Tile Last?
The longevity of your painted tile depends heavily on:
- Surface prep quality
- Type of paint used
- Amount of wear and moisture exposure
- Whether a topcoat was applied
- Curing time allowed before use
With epoxy or tile-specific paints, painted ceramic tile can last 5 to 10 years with proper care. For wall tiles or low-use areas painted with latex or acrylic, expect 2–5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What paint to use over ceramic tile in a shower area?
For high-moisture environments like showers, use a 2-part epoxy paint or a ceramic tile refinishing kit designed for tubs and tiles. These paints are water-resistant and can withstand constant exposure to steam, soap, and water without peeling or fading.
2. Can I use regular wall paint over ceramic tile?
No, regular wall paint lacks the adhesion and durability needed for slick, non-porous tile surfaces. You must use high-adhesion primer followed by latex acrylic, epoxy, or alkyd paint specifically suited for tile or glossy surfaces.
3. Do I need to sand ceramic tile before painting?
Yes. Light sanding with 220–400 grit sandpaper helps roughen the glossy tile surface, allowing the primer and paint to adhere properly. Failing to sand increases the risk of chipping and peeling.
4. Will painted ceramic tile peel over time?
Painted ceramic tile can peel if the surface isn’t properly cleaned, sanded, and primed, or if low-quality paint is used. Using the right tile-specific paint and sealing the surface significantly improves longevity.
5. Is epoxy paint safe for indoor use on ceramic tile?
Yes, but ensure adequate ventilation during application, as epoxy paints can emit strong fumes. Once cured, epoxy is non-toxic, waterproof, and safe for use on kitchen counters, floors, and walls.
6. What’s the best paint for ceramic tile countertops?
Epoxy-based paints or tub-and-tile refinishing kits are best for countertops. These provide a smooth, scratch-resistant, and water-resistant finish that can handle spills, heat, and cleaning agents better than latex or acrylic options.
7. How long does painted tile last?
With proper surface preparation, the right paint, and a clear protective topcoat, painted ceramic tile can last 5–10 years or more. Lifespan varies based on traffic, moisture, and maintenance.
8. Can I use chalk paint over ceramic tile?
Yes, but it must be paired with a bonding primer and a durable sealer to prevent moisture penetration and wear. Chalk paint is best for low-traffic, decorative applications, not high-moisture or floor tiles.
9. Do I need to seal painted ceramic tile?
Sealing is highly recommended—especially for floors, kitchens, and bathrooms. Use a clear polyurethane or epoxy topcoat to protect against moisture, abrasions, and stains, and to extend the paint’s lifespan.
10. Can I paint just the grout lines on ceramic tile?
Yes. You can use grout colorants or grout pens to refresh or change grout color after painting tiles, or carefully avoid grout lines during painting. Some people choose to paint over both tile and grout for a more uniform appearance.
Conclusion
Painting ceramic tile is a smart, cost-effective way to upgrade old, outdated surfaces without undergoing a full renovation. However, success depends on more than just picking a color—you must understand what paint to use over ceramic tile, how to prepare the surface, and how to seal it for durability.
For the best long-term results, epoxy paint remains the gold standard, offering unmatched resistance to moisture, wear, and staining. Latex acrylic paints with a bonding primer can work well on low-traffic wall tiles, while alkyd and chalk paints serve niche decorative purposes. Proper preparation—cleaning, sanding, priming—and sealing are non-negotiable steps, no matter what paint you choose.
Whether you’re transforming a bathroom backsplash, revitalizing a tiled fireplace, or giving your kitchen floor a new lease on life, using the right products and techniques will make your painted ceramic tile last for years while looking like a professional job. So, next time you ask what paint to use over ceramic tile, refer back to this guide to ensure your project is built on the right foundation.
