Tile countertops can look dated fast, especially with stained grout lines or glossy ceramic finishes that don’t fit modern kitchens. But before you rip them out, consider painting. Painting kitchen tile countertops is a cost-friendly DIY project that can freshen up your space in just a weekend.
With the right products and some prep work, you can get a clean, durable finish that holds up to everyday use... no need to replace the whole counter.
Can You Paint Kitchen Counter Tile?
Yes, you can paint tile countertops: the process is similar to painting a tile backsplash but with more wear-and-tear to consider. Counters get heavy use, so it's important to choose the right products and follow the prep steps closely.
Paint won't stick to glossy ceramic tile without sanding and priming first. Epoxy paint and countertop refinishing kits are both strong choices, designed for high-traffic areas.
This project works best on tile in decent shape: chipped tiles, missing grout, or a heavily textured surface may need extra work before painting. If the grout joints are deep or crumbly, patch them with wood filler or replace sections first. With prep done right, painted countertops can look surprisingly good... and last.
How to Paint Tile Countertops: What to Do, Start to Finish
- Clean and Degrease: Scrub the counters with a degreasing cleaner to remove food oils and buildup. A clean surface helps the paint stick better. Dry thoroughly before moving on.
- Sand the Surface: Use 120 grit sandpaper or an orbital sander to dull the tile’s shine. If your tile is extra smooth, go over it again with 400-grit sandpaper to refine the surface. Wipe down the dust with a damp cloth.
- Tape Everything Off: Use painter’s tape or blue tape to protect walls, sinks, appliances, and tile edges. Lay down a drop cloth to catch any drips or dust. For extra coverage, add plastic sheets around work areas.
- Repair Grout and Chips: Fill small chips with wood filler and smooth over any grout issues. Let dry and sand flush with the tile surface. This step helps give you a more even base.
- Prime the Tile: Use a bonding primer designed for glossy or non-porous surfaces. Apply it with a foam paint roller or cut in brush along the edges. Let it dry fully according to the label.
- Apply the Paint: Choose an epoxy paint, enamel paint, or a Countertop Refinishing Kit like Giani Countertop Paint. Use thin, even coats. A second or third coat may be needed for full coverage. You can also use chalk paint for a matte look, but you’ll need a strong sealant to protect it.
- Add Faux Finishes (Optional): For a more upscale look, consider adding faux marble veining or metallic flakes between coats. Some kits include tools for this, or you can use a small artist’s brush.
- Seal the Surface: Use a top coat made for countertops—urethane or epoxy sheen finishes work best. This step protects your painted tile from foot traffic, water, and stains.
- Let It Cure: Even after the paint feels dry, give it a few days to fully cure before using the counter like normal. Avoid placing heavy objects or scrubbing for at least 48–72 hours.
Products Worth Mentioning
- Giani Countertop Paint: A full DIY makeover kit for countertops, available in styles like Carrara White Marble. Great for tile or laminate surfaces.
- SpreadStone Mineral Select: A stone-like finish that mimics granite and works on both tile countertops and backsplashes.
- HVLP Sprayer: If you want a super smooth, pro-level finish, using a sprayer instead of rollers can give great results with less texture.
- Cut In Brush & Foam Rollers: These tools help you get clean edges and a smooth finish without brush marks—key for painting tile countertops.
Another Option For Updating Countertops (No Paint)
If you’re unsure about painting or want a different kind of finish, there are other options. Countertop Coating systems like SpreadStone or Giani can be applied with rollers but offer a thicker, stone-like surface. These don’t feel like traditional paint—they add some texture and durability.
For an ultra-budget option, contact paper or peel-and-stick sheets give a faux marble or butcher block look. These won’t last as long and aren’t heat-resistant, but they work for short-term fixes or rentals.
You can also install new laminate or wood right over your old tile with the right prep and adhesive. It’s more work, but it creates a totally new surface and skips the need for demo.
FAQ
Can I use regular paint on tile countertops?
No: regular wall paint won’t hold up to water, heat, or cleaning products. You need something tough, like epoxy paint, enamel paint, or a refinishing kit made for kitchen use.
Do painted tile countertops hold up?
They can last for several years with the right prep and sealing. Still, they aren’t as tough as real stone or solid surface counters. You’ll need to be a little gentle—no cutting directly on the surface or dragging heavy pans.
