Successfully renovate your bathroom tiles

Modernizing your bathroom without major construction work is a dream for many, and covering existing bathroom tiles turns out to be a quick, effective, and affordable solution. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a beginner, we’re sharing tips and tricks to give your bathroom a fresh new look in no time. This article covers different methods and materials for covering tiles, and guides you in bringing your decorating ideas to life and personalizing your renovation. Discover how to easily transform your bathroom by following our practical and aesthetic recommendations.

Why cover bathroom tiles?

Are you planning to cover your bathroom tiles? You’re making a good choice, because this solution offers many advantages. Not only does it let you modernize your space without the drawbacks of heavy work, it also avoids the major rubble and mess of renovation. Plus, with the right tools, this method is more affordable and faster to carry out.

Modernize without hassle

Imagine coming home after a long day, ready to relax in your newly renovated bathroom—without having endured endless weeks of noisy, difficult construction work. Yes, it’s possible: simply cover the existing bathroom tiling. You can transform the look of your bathroom in the blink of an eye. Say goodbye to loud, dirty demolition; you can choose a hassle-free bathroom renovation.

A cost-effective solution

Renovating bathroom tiling can quickly become expensive, especially if you have to remove the old tiles, prepare the surface, and install new ones. By covering existing tiles, you save not only time, but also money. Materials such as special tile paint or microcement are affordable alternatives that deliver a refined design result without breaking the bank.

Fast and easy to do

Speed of execution is another major advantage of this solution. Covering bathroom tiles is a project you can complete in just a few days—or even over a long weekend if you’re especially motivated. In a hurry to move on? This option minimizes disruption to your routine and leaves you time to enjoy your new bathroom in record time.

An eco-friendly option

Concerned about the environment? Covering your tiles instead of replacing them can be a more eco-friendly choice. Less renovation waste and less transport of heavy materials. In short, you get a double win—for you and for the planet!

In summary, here are the benefits of covering tiling

• Cost savings
• Easy to do
• Eco-friendly solution
• Less rubble and dust
• Fast renovation

Materials for covering bathroom tiling

To cover your bathroom tiles, you have several options. Each material has its own advantages, offering different alternatives to modernize your space quickly and effectively.

Special tile paint

If you’re looking for a simple, quick solution, special tile paint is ideal.

Advantages:

• Easy application: even beginners can use it without difficulty.
• Wide choice of colors: transform your bathroom with bright or soothing shades depending on your taste.
• Speed: a project you can complete in a weekend, with fast drying between coats.

Application:

1. Surface preparation: clean and degrease the tiles.
2. Apply a base coat: for better adhesion.
3. Painting: apply two or three thin coats for an even result.

Microcement

For a more modern, seamless finish, microcement is an excellent option for covering bathroom tiling.

Advantages:

• Modern aesthetics: adds a contemporary, elegant touch.
• Durable: resistant to moisture and wear—perfect for bathrooms.
• No grout lines: makes cleaning easier and prevents mold from forming.

Application:

1. Surface preparation: make sure the tiling is clean and dry.
2. Apply an adhesion primer: to ensure good bonding.
3. Apply the microcement: apply several thin coats, smoothing each coat.
4. Finish: add a protective varnish to extend durability.

For more details on application, discover further down our article on applying microcement in the shower for beginners.

Other decorative coatings

Decorative coatings allow you to create unique textures and varied finishes for a personalized effect.

Advantages:

• Aesthetic flexibility: ideal for those who want to experiment with textures and patterns.
• Adaptability: usable on various surfaces, including walls and floors.
• Protection: often water-repellent and stain-resistant.

Application:

1. Surface preparation: as with other materials—and to ensure quality finishes—clean and dry thoroughly before applying.
2. Apply the coating: use a trowel or roller, depending on the desired texture.
3. Finish: apply a protective coat to ensure durability.

Note: Decorative coatings are countless. We recommend consulting manufacturers’ instructions to ensure you understand the advantages and the specific application method for each one.

Whether you choose special paint, microcement, or decorative coatings, covering your bathroom tiling is an effective and stylish solution. Each material offers its own advantages, allowing you to personalize your space according to your preferences and needs. So, what are you waiting for to get started and transform your bathroom into an elegant, functional space? Take a look at our store and choose your kit.

You’ve probably noticed, but this list isn’t exhaustive. We focused on the easiest options to apply in “do it yourself” mode. We could also have mentioned materials such as wall panels. However, that type of solution involves delicate handling and cutting, which can quickly become a hassle.

Steps to cover tiling with paint

Covering your bathroom tiles with paint is a simple and effective method to modernize your space. Here are the steps to follow:

Surface preparation

Before you start painting, take the time to prepare the surface properly.

• Cleaning: make sure the tiles are perfectly clean. Use a strong detergent to remove any traces of grease and dirt.
• Repairs: inspect the tiles for cracks or damaged grout lines. Repair them with a suitable product.

Applying the primer coat

Applying a primer coat is essential to ensure the paint adheres properly.

• Choosing the primer: use a tile-specific primer for better adhesion.
• Application: apply the primer evenly with a roller or brush, then let it dry.

Painting the tiles

Tile painting must be done carefully to achieve an even, long-lasting finish.

• Choosing the paint: use a tile-specific paint.
• Apply thin coats: apply the paint in several thin coats to avoid drips and ensure an even finish. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.

Finish and drying

The final step is to add a finishing coat to protect the paint and extend its durability.

• Protective varnish: apply a protective varnish to increase resistance to moisture and scratches.
• Drying: let the paint and varnish dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Here’s your checklist for a successful application:

• Surface preparation
• clean the tiles
• repair cracks and grout lines
• Primer coat application
• use a tile-specific primer
• apply evenly and let dry
• Painting the tiles
• choose a tile-specific paint
• apply several thin coats
• Finish and drying
• apply a protective varnish
• allow to dry completely

And that’s it—by following these steps, you should achieve a more than satisfactory result when applying bathroom tile paint.

Painting bathroom tiles is a simple, fast, and affordable way to transform your space without the hassle of traditional renovations. So, ready to get started?

Applying microcement over bathroom tiles

Microcement is a modern, elegant option for covering bathroom tiles. Here are the steps to follow for a successful application.

Surface preparation

Just like with paint, proper surface preparation is a key factor for success.

• Cleaning: make sure the tiles are perfectly clean and dry. Use a strong detergent to remove any traces of grease and dirt.
• Repairs: inspect the tiles for cracks or damaged grout lines. Repair them with a suitable product to obtain a smooth, solid surface.

Applying the adhesion primer

The adhesion primer is essential to ensure the microcement bonds well.

• Choosing the primer: use a primer compatible with tiled surfaces.
• Application: apply the primer in an even coat with a roller or brush. Let it dry completely according to the product recommendations.

Applying the microcement

Microcement is applied in several thin coats for an optimal finish.

• Preparing the microcement: mix the decorative microcement according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or use our ready-to-use solutions.
• Apply thin coats: apply the first coat of microcement in a thin, even layer. Use a trowel to smooth the surface. Let it dry before applying the next coats.
• Sanding: after each coat, sand the surface depending on the desired finish.

Protecting and maintaining microcement

Once the microcement is applied, it’s important to protect it and maintain it properly.

• Protective varnish: apply a protective varnish to increase durability and resistance to moisture and stains.
• Maintenance: use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products to maintain your microcement. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.

Here’s your reminder checklist:

• Surface preparation
• Clean the tiles
• Repair cracks and grout lines
• Applying the adhesion primer
• Use a tile-specific primer
• Apply evenly and let dry
• Applying the microcement
• Prepare the microcement
• Apply several thin coats
• Smooth each coat
• Protection and maintenance
• Apply a protective varnish
• Use gentle cleaning products

Applying microcement over your bathroom tiles is an excellent way to modernize and beautify your space in “do it yourself” (DIY) mode. Our ready-to-use kits allow you to achieve a professional, long-lasting finish.

Note: for a detailed guide to applying millimetric microcement, we invite you to discover this other article: microcement in the shower.

Decor ideas to personalize your renovation

Adding a personal touch to your bathroom can make all the difference. Here are a few decor ideas to transform your space in a unique and creative way.

Using stencils

Stencils are a great way to create unique, customized patterns on your tiles.

• Choosing patterns: go for geometric, floral, or abstract designs depending on your preferences.
• Application: secure the stencil on the tile and apply the paint with a brush or sponge. Be careful not to overload the brush to avoid drips.

Mixing materials

Combining different materials can add depth and character to your bathroom.

• Wood and microcement: these two materials pair perfectly. For example, you can apply microcement on your walls and choose a wooden countertop and shelves. This combination adds warmth and can create either a rustic or modern atmosphere depending on the textures and colors you choose.
• Textiles and wood: add wood elements and textiles such as curtains or rugs for a warm contrast with microcement.

Adding accessories

Accessories are the finishing touch that can completely transform the look of your bathroom.

• Towel bars and shelves: choose towel bars and shelves made from natural materials like wood, bamboo, or metal for an elegant, functional look.
• Shower curtains: consider swapping your shower curtain for a model with patterns or complementary colors that match your new decor.
• Lighting: depending on your taste, opt for visible light fixtures that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, or choose the subtlety of indirect lighting by installing moldings.

Recap bullet list

• Using stencils
• Create unique patterns
• Apply the paint carefully
• Mixing materials
• Add and combine metal, wood, and textiles
• Adding accessories
• Choose towel bars and shelves made from quality materials
• Harmonize colors by changing the shower curtain and bathroom linens
• Pay special attention to lighting. Decorative or discreet? A whole universe to explore—often overlooked.

Personalizing your bathroom decor can transform this functional space into a stylish, welcoming corner. We’ve only covered a few ideas. Now it’s up to you to get inspired by your favorite store.

Comparison of methods for covering tiles

When it comes to covering your bathroom tiles, there are several methods available. Below is a detailed comparison to help you choose the best option based on your needs and preferences.

Cost

Analyzing costs is essential when deciding which method to adopt.

• Special tile paint: usually the most affordable option. Prices vary depending on paint quality, but remain accessible. Expect roughly between €20 and €50 per m².
• Microcement: this method is more expensive, with prices ranging from €60 to €100 per square meter, including labor, materials, and necessary products.
• Decorative coatings: costs can vary widely depending on the type of coating and the area to cover, but generally range between €40 and €80 per m².

Durability

Durability is a key factor to consider, especially in a humid environment like a bathroom.

• Special tile paint: with good application, paint can last for several years. However, it may require occasional touch-ups, especially in very damp or high-friction areas. A quality paint helps mitigate this issue.
• Microcement: very durable and moisture-resistant, microcement is ideal for bathrooms. It doesn’t crack and offers excellent longevity.
• Decorative coatings: these coatings are generally durable and offer good resistance to moisture and impacts. However, durability can vary depending on application quality and the product used.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics play a major role in transforming your bathroom.

• Special tile paint: offering a wide range of colors, paint makes it easy to customize your space. You can choose bright shades or more subdued tones depending on your taste.
• Microcement: brings a clean, elegant look to your bathroom. Its seamless finish creates a smooth, uniform, highly aesthetic surface.
• Decorative coatings: allow you to create unique textures and varied effects. Whether you prefer a rustic or contemporary style, the possibilities are numerous.

What to take from this comparison

• Cost
• Special tile paint: €20–€50/m²
• Microcement: €60–€100/m²
• Decorative coatings: €40–€80/m²
• Durability
• Paint: good, may require touch-ups
• Microcement: excellent, very durable
• Coatings: good, varies by product
• Aesthetics
• Paint: wide range of colors
• Microcement: clean, modern, elegant look
• Coatings: unique textures and varied effects

Each method for covering your bathroom tiles has unique advantages in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetics. Depending on your priorities and budget, you can choose the option that best suits your needs. If you have some time, even as a beginner, our DIY solutions can help you save substantially.

Keep in mind

Covering your bathroom tiling is an excellent way to modernize your space without the hassle of major work. Whether you choose special paint, microcement, or decorative coatings, each method has unique advantages in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetics. With each of our solutions, we provide complete installation guides that are easy to understand and apply. What are you waiting for to give your bathroom a fresh new look?

Discover our microcement kits for tiled surfaces and ask us for advice!