Giving tile a face lift on a budget

What if you just don't like the color of the ceramic tile in your bath? Is it left over from the psychedelic 60's? Sure, it was way groovy then, but now that the trip's over...

One solution is to demo all the tile, install cement-fiber backer board, install new tile, and then grout it. Whew. Not only is it a lot of work, but we're talking a major expense here. Relax, you have options!

Tile tattoos are an option

Tile tattoos are a fairly recent arrival on the decorating scene. Made of vinyl, they stick to ceramic tile surfaces without using adhesive. They go on quick, in case company is almost on the doorstep.

Do you want to apply them to all your tiles though? Most likely not. They're available in many different colors and patterns so they're best suited to using as decorative accents in patterns. Also, they can be pricey. I just did an Internet check and they're about $14 for each set of 6.

Paint over ceramic tile? You bet!

But don't get your spray cans out and start tagging yet! That's not what this is about, Homie. No, this is about a process that uses a paint from Graham Paint that incorporates ceramic microspheres. Unlike conventional paint pigments which are ragged and irregularly shaped, microspheres are smooth and round, so the paint goes on smoothly.

The first thing to do is clean the surface of the tile with TSP (Tri Sodium Phosphate) or a similar product. Next, sand the tile to improve adhesion. When you're done with that, either spray or roll Aqua Borne Blockout/Undercoater White.

After that coat is dry, spray or roll Graham's Acrylic Enamel, using a universal tint if you're not looking for a white finish. You can choose either a gloss, satin, or flat sheen. I can't imagine wanting to use flat, but, "Each to his own," said the man who kissed the cow.

This part of the remodel should be able to be completed within one day.