How to paint grout, what type of paint can you use on grout, and can you paint grout with acrylic paint or oil paint? We explain everything you need to know about painting grout.
How to Paint Grout
You can renew discolored and dirty grout by painting it. Grout absorbs some paint due to its porous surface. However, many types of paint adhere well to grout.
The biggest challenge when painting grout is that it is constantly exposed to water and heavy foot traffic. You will need durable grout paints, especially for bathroom tiles that come into contact with water.
Another important point to keep in mind is that the grout lines must be completely filled. Before you begin painting between the tiles, make sure the grout is fully filled. Check all grout lines and fill any empty spaces.
Do You Need Special Paint for Grout?
Paints specifically designed for grout are water-resistant and won’t crack. For this reason, your first choice for painting grout should be a specialized grout paint. However, it is also possible to paint the grout between tiles with other types of paint.
What Type of Paint Can You Use on Grout?
- Grout painting pen: Durable and ideal for retouching and short grout lines.
- Acrylic paint: Requires special application but is durable. Suitable for long grout lines. General-purpose acrylic paints should be used.
- Oil-based paint: Easy to cover old colors and dirt. However, it may crack on unstable grouts and tiles. White oil-based paint can change color quickly and get dirty. “Related articles: oil based vs water based paint and how to use enamel paint?”
How do You Paint Grout
To paint the grout, all you need is a pencil-tipped brush and a wet cloth. You can easily wipe off any paint that spills onto the tile using a wet cloth. If there are paint stains on the grout and tiles, first read “removing paint from tiles.”
Whichever paint you choose, you should clean and dry the grout before painting. Even the slightest moisture on the grout can cause the paint to peel. For this reason, thoroughly dry the grout lines before painting and wait a day to allow any moisture to evaporate. Painting grout during the summer is often a better choice due to the drying conditions.
If you’re using special grout paints, acrylic paints, or oil paints, you can apply paper tape along the edges of the grout lines. If you find this process too tedious, you can use a damp cloth to clean off the paint before it dries.
1-Make Sure Tile Grouting is Completely Filled
Ensure that the grout lines are fully filled. If they are not, fill them in and allow the grout to dry completely before you start painting. This step is important because gaps or unfinished grout can affect the quality and appearance of the paint.
2-Clean and Dry the Grout
For the paint to adhere well, the grout must be clean and dry. Remove any water, soap residue, or dirt from the grout lines. An old toothbrush can be useful for scrubbing away stains and buildup in the grout. This ensures that the paint bonds properly to the surface and doesn’t peel or flake off.
3-Paint The First Coat and Let It Dry
Apply the first coat of paint evenly across the grout lines. Allow it to dry thoroughly. For special grout paints and acrylic paints, you should wait about 4 hours before applying a second coat. Oil-based paint requires a longer drying time—at least 24 hours—so be sure to plan accordingly.
4-Apply the Second Coat
After the first coat has dried completely, apply the second coat. Even though one coat may look good, it’s important to apply at least two coats to ensure the paint lasts longer and covers more effectively. This helps create a more durable finish.
5-Apply Varnish Over It
For extra protection and durability, especially if you used special grout paints or acrylic paint, apply a water-based varnish on top of the painted grout. This will make the grout more resistant to friction, stains, and everyday wear and tear, giving it a smoother and more long-lasting finish. By following these steps, your grout will not only look refreshed but will also be better protected against moisture and damage.
Is Painting Grout a Good Idea?
If you have crumbling grouts, do not paint the grouts, renew them. However, in order to renew them, it is necessary to scrape off the old grout completely. For this reason, it may be a good idea to fill the empty grouts and paint them before renovating them.
Can I Just Paint over Grout?
Yes, the grouts can be painted over. However, bathroom tiles are frequently exposed to water. For this reason, it is important to paint the grout with the right paint and the right methods.
Do You Need Special Paint for Grout?
Special grout paints are a good choice for painting the grouts. However, if there is no special grout paint in your area. It is possible to paint the grouts with general purpose acrylic paint.
How Long does Painted Grout Last?
The durability of grout painting varies according to the type of paint, the number of coats of paint and the frequency of cleaning the floor. However, this period should be at least five years. To increase durability, you can apply varnish after painting.
