How to Paint Tile Countertops in Three Easy Steps

7 Materials
$30
1 Day
Easy
If you have outdated tile countertops and want to bring them back to life WITHOUT demolishing your space, you’re going to be absolutely amazed at how easy it is to give your kitchen a fresh new look in just one day.
As you can see this kitchen has good bones and lots of potential. Why rip out the tile and go through the demolition mess when you can just paint it for as little as $30.00!  
I suggest covering the cabinets so you don’t get any paint on them. If you don’t have plastic, old sheets work well. I also used blue tape on the cabinets to avoid getting paint on them.  
First Step: Sand the tile to knock out the sheen and create grit so the paint sticks. This is the most important step. The directions on the box said to use fine grit sandpaper. I've always found 120 grit works best.
Second Step: Clean the tile. I like using TSP after I sand. It cleans grease and grime well.


Third Step: Paint the tile. This product works really well, BUT it has a strong smell. I highly suggest that you wear a Respirator mask and gloves plus open all the windows. I also took a fan and faced it toward the open door. 
IMPORTANT: You must apply two coats of paint for full coverage. The second coat must be applied before 6 hours.
Close up of painted countertop
What a difference a day and a little paint can make! Be sure to click on the blog link below to watch the video tutorial on this project.


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Cheryl Phan
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 8 questions
  • Betty jrp Betty jrp on Dec 09, 2018

    What about my kitchen floor tiles, what paint is best for it will a busy floor?

  • Rose Rose on Oct 18, 2020

    Can you get this paint in colors get different than white?

  • Nay84777718 Nay84777718 on Jan 30, 2024

    Can I use a different color of paint to freshen up kitchen counter tops?

Comments
Join the conversation
6 of 9 comments
  • Donna Donna on Oct 18, 2019

    I love the look! I wonder how long it will last? will cleaning wear off the paint?

    • See 2 previous
    • Cheryl Phan Cheryl Phan on Jan 30, 2024

      It lasted a couple of years. But I will say you need to clean them with non-abrasive products.

  • Joan Stanley Joan Stanley on Oct 19, 2019

    I used Rustolium Countertop paint for the Formica counters and backsplash in my kitchen. It was FANTASTIC! One coat covered barf avacado green with off white and lasted over 10 years before showing signs it needed repainting.

    Rustolium should pay me first all the endorsements I give then! LOL

    Good stuff!


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