How do I paint fireplace tile?
Step 1Sweep out the fireplace and clean the surface of existing tile and grout between tiles, using a commercial tile cleaner that contains a mild abrasive. After the surface has been cleaned, sand the tile using 220 grit sandpaper. Diagonally sand from right to left and back again. The primer sticks more easily to tile that has been sanded. Remove excess dust from the tiles.Step 2Prime all tiles with a latex-blocking primer. Be sure to prime all areas, except for the inside of the fireplace. Work slowly to avoid lines that the paint roller may create; the lines show through to the finished paint coat if they are not removed. Tiles that are not primed may not hold paint. Wait 24 hours after the primer is applied to begin the painting process. Brush lightly over the primed surface with sandpaper to make sure the area is ready for paint.Step 3Paint tiles with a latex-based paint. Wait two hours after the first coat of paint before applying the second coat.
