Are you looking for an easy, affordable way to spruce up your bathroom or kitchen? Painting is a great way to add a pop of color to an otherwise dull space. But can you paint tile grout?
It is possible to paint tile grout. A grout colorant is a specially formulated paint designed for grout that bonds to the surface and won’t easily come off. It is simple and inexpensive, but it takes some extra preparation. Grout paint can make grouting look better and give your tiles a new color.
In this article, you will learn about:
- The pros and cons of painting tile grout
- The best paint and primer for tile grout
- Step-by-step guide on how to paint tile grout
Is Painting Your Tile Grout a Good Idea?
Painting tile grout can be a great way to update or freshen a room. But it is important to understand the pros and cons of painting grout before you begin.
Pros
- Easy and inexpensive home update – Painting your tile grout can be one of the easiest and most inexpensive home updates to transform a room.
- Inexpensive – Painting grout is much cheaper than replacing it.
- Rejuvenates tiles – Using a grout colorant can help rejuvenate and restore your tile’s overall look.
- Quick and easy – Painting your tile grout is a quick and easy process that can be done in just a few hours.
- Durable – Once cured, painted grout will last for years with minimal maintenance.
- Versatile – Grout paint comes in various colors and shades, so you can customize the look of your tiled surface to fit any style or decor.
- Covers imperfections – Painting over tile helps cover any imperfections or discoloration in the existing grout lines, giving you a fresh start on your tiled surface.
Cons
- Painting can take a lot of time – Depending on the size of your tiled surface, painting grout can be time-consuming.
- Time-consuming cleanup – Painting tile grout requires careful cleanup after you are finished to ensure that all of the paint is off the tiles.
- May need multiple coats – Depending on your paint, you may need to apply multiple coats for even coverage.
- Can be messy – Paint can easily splatter onto nearby surfaces if not done carefully.
The Best Paint for Tile Grout
Tile grout paint is a great way to update the look of your tile without having to replace it. When choosing a paint for your tile grout, there are several things to consider.
Firstly, when painting grout lines, select a paint specifically formulated for tile surfaces. Grout colorant typically comprises latex, fillers, and pigments, which help restore the original color or even transform it entirely.
This type of product can be easily applied by simply brushing on it. This method ensures that pigment penetrates and tints your grout without affecting neighboring tiles.
Secondly, you should consider the color of the paint you choose. Grout paint comes in various colors, so you can match it with your existing tile or create a new look.
Lastly, you should ensure the paint is compatible with your grout, as some types may not work well with certain types of grout.
Best Paint
Mapei Grout Refresh Colorant and Sealer is the best choice for those looking to restore their tile grout.
This product is available in Mapei’s full palette of colors, making it easy to find a color that matches the existing grout or provides a fresh new look.
It also seals against the most common stains, creating a uniform color and protecting your tiles for years. The ease of application and maintenance makes it an ideal choice for any do-it-yourselfer.
The paint can be applied with a brush or roller, allowing you to cover more area quickly. After applying the paint, light foot traffic can resume within two to three hours. Best of all, the color won’t crack and fade over time if properly maintained.
Overall, Mapei Grout Refresh Colorant and Sealer is an excellent option for anyone looking to spruce up their existing tile grout or switch up the color completely.
With its fast drying time, easy application process, impressive sealing capabilities, and wide range of colors, it stands apart as one of the best grout paints on the market today.
How to Paint Tile Grout
Tools and Materials
To get started, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Grout cleaner
- Mold remover
- Gloves
- Grout brush
- Paintbrush, roller, or toothbrush
- Paint tray
- Tile cleaner
- Grout sealer
Step 1: Clean the Grouting
Before you start painting, it’s important to ensure the grout lines are clean and free from dirt or debris. Put on your safety gloves and use the specialist grout cleaner and a sponge to remove all of the dirt or grime, then dry with a towel. For stubborn stains, use a grout-cleaning brush.
If the grout has mold spots, apply a specialist mold remover spray and leave it for 30 minutes to do its work. Finish by cleaning with water and a sponge. Allow the grout to dry.
Step 2 (Optional): Tape-Off Tiles
You can use tape to cover the tiles adjacent to the grout lines for a neater finish. This will help prevent any paint from getting on them while you’re painting. Although this can take more time and effort, it can make all the difference in the result.
Step 3: Paint the Grout Lines
Once everything is prepped, it’s time to start painting. Dip a small or old toothbrush into the grout paint and brush it into the grout lines with a light scrubbing motion.
Make sure that each line is completely covered for an even finish. Paint a thin layer, and let it dry before applying another coat if necessary.
Step 4: Remove the Tape and Clean the Tile
Once the grout lines have been painted, you can remove the tape from the tiles. If there are still any smudges or overspray, gently wipe them away with a damp cloth.
Step 5: Seal the Grout Lines
Once the paint is completely dry, seal the grout lines to protect them from dirt or moisture damage. Although most grout paint comes pre-sealed, it’s always a good idea to go the extra mile and double up on protection. Apply sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let dry completely before using your tiles.