If you plan to update your bathroom or kitchen, painting your grout is an affordable and easy way to revamp the overall look. So what type of paint is best?
Paint specifically made for grout is the best option. It’s formulated to stick well to grout surfaces. Since grout usually already contains sealant, a primer isn’t necessary. However, if you are repainting over old grout that is particularly porous, using a bonding primer is good to help seal the surface.
In this article, you will learn:
- The 5 factors to consider when choosing paint for grout
- What type of paint to use
- What finish is best
- My top picks for the best paint and primer for grout
The 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Grout
1. Type of Grout
It’s essential to select a paint that’s explicitly made for the type of grout you have in your bathroom or kitchen. For example, epoxy paint is the best choice if you have sanded grout.
2. Durability
The durability of the paint you choose is crucial, especially if the tile installation is in a high-traffic area. You don’t want paint that fades or chips within a few months of application. Look for high-quality paint that is durable enough to withstand everyday life.
3. Ease of Application
When choosing a paint for grout, ensure it is easy to apply. Opt for a paint with a brush applicator tip or a spray bottle to make it easy to spread and apply to the grout lines. A paint that is difficult to apply will lead to unsatisfactory results.
4. Color
Choosing the right paint color for your grout will make a significant difference in the finished look of your tiles. Opt for a color that blends in with the color of your tiles rather than one that contrasts. This will create a seamless and uniform look.
5. Brand
Not all paint brands are the same. It’s advisable to choose a reputable paint brand to ensure quality results. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from experts in the industry to help you make an informed decision.
What Type of Paint Is Best?
Epoxy Paint
Epoxy paint is one of the most popular and widely used paints for grout, as it provides a durable finish that can withstand heavy traffic and frequent use. It also creates an impermeable seal, which helps to protect your tiles from water damage or discoloration.
Pros
- Durability: Epoxy paint is highly resistant to wear and tear, providing a long-lasting finish.
- Versatile: Can be used on sanded or unsanded varieties of cement, epoxy, acrylic, and urethane grout.
- Moisture Resistance: It’s excellent in areas exposed to water, such as bathrooms and kitchens, due to its waterproof properties.
- Stain and Chemical Resistance: Resists stains and chemicals, making it ideal in high-traffic areas or places prone to spills.
- Easy Maintenance: Once cured, epoxy paint is easy to clean and maintain.
- Color Retention: Epoxy paint holds its color well over time, even under harsh conditions.
Cons
- Difficult Application: It can be challenging to apply evenly and requires precision.
- Drying Time: It typically takes longer to dry than other types of paint.
- Potentially Harmful Fumes: The fumes from epoxy paint can be harmful if not adequately ventilated during application.
- Preparation: The grout surface must be thoroughly cleaned and possibly etched before application.
- Cost: Can be more expensive than other types of paint.
Exterior Acrylic Paint
Exterior acrylic paint is a type of paint formulated for outdoor use and is made with acrylic resin.
Pros
- Versatility: Acrylic paint comes in a wide range of colors, offering many options for customization.
- Easy Application: It’s generally easier to apply than other paint types.
- Water-Based: Being water-based, it’s easy to clean up with soap and water.
- Quick Drying: Typically dries quickly.
Cons
- Durability: It may not be as durable as other options like epoxy paint, especially in high-moisture areas.
- Coverage: May not provide adequate coverage over the existing grout color.
- Longevity: Might not last as long as other types of paint on grout.
What Paint Finish Is Best?
Semi-gloss finishes are popular for their ability to resist moisture and repel dirt and grime. This finish is an excellent choice for grout as it is easy to clean and maintain.
However, semi-gloss finishes can sometimes show imperfections on the surface, so it is vital to ensure that the grout is clean and free of any cracks or holes before applying the finish.
Gloss finishes also offer similar benefits to semi-gloss finishes but provide a more reflective and shiny finish.
Gloss finishes are well-suited for high-moisture areas such as bathrooms or kitchens. Additionally, a gloss finish provides a visually appealing surface that can accentuate the tilework in the room.
The Best Paint and Primer for Grout
Best Paint
Mapei Grout Refresh Colorant and Sealer is undoubtedly the best solution for upgrading grout.
The colorant and sealer can transform old, dingy grout lines into a new, rejuvenated look in no time. Its advanced formula makes it a non-toxic, water-based cleaning solution safe for interior and exterior use.
This product is perfect for cement, epoxy, acrylic, and urethane grout lines, both sanded and unsanded. It’s important to note that to achieve the best results, the surface should be clean and prepared.
The 8oz (227ml) polyblend colorant and sealer for grout lines comes in 40 standard colors, making it easy to find the perfect match for your grout. Its rich pigments ensure that your grout lines remain vibrant and long-lasting.
One of the appealing features of Mapei Grout Refresh Colorant and Sealer is that it protects against the most common stains, making it easy to keep your grout clean. Not only does it restore tired-looking grout, but it also extends its life, reducing the need for it to be replaced.
Best Primer
Insl-X Stix Waterborne Bonding Primer is the ultimate solution for grout priming, harnessing unparalleled adhesion to some of the most challenging surfaces.
This primer-sealer forms a strong, long-lasting bond by boasting a premium-quality acrylic-urethane formula.
The best part is that this primer fully cures in temperatures as low as 35°F (2°C), making it perfect for exterior or interior use. With its excellent enamel holdout, this bonding primer provides an outstanding base for an even topcoat finish.
Offering 75-100 square feet (7-9m²) coverage, this primer-sealer can be effortlessly applied and provides low VOCs and an easy soap-and-water cleanup. Before painting, review the INSL-X STIX label for proper preparation and application tips.