If you want to give your slate tile a brighter color than most glazes can provide, you should paint it.Slate tile has a non-porous surface.You can create a strong, durable paint coat with the right materials.The tile's color will last for months or years after you seal it.
Step 1: The slate tile needs to be washed.
In a bucket, mix a solution of bleach and water at a ratio of 1 c to 1 US gal of water.If you want to clean your tile from one end to the other, you need to dip a sponge or cloth in the solution and scrub it in circular motions.Before applying paint, towel or air dry the tile.
Step 2: You should inspect your tile for bumps.
Make the surface even by sanding down any bumps.If you notice any cracks or dips, you should coat the tile with a sealant.If you want to keep your paint coats smooth, you need a tile sealant that can hold tiles together.Most home improvement stores sell epoxy sealants.If you apply it to all of the tiles, you will have a consistent look.
Step 3: If you don't want the tile to be painted with tape, cover it.
If you want to make a pattern or paint part of the tile, block out any parts you need to paint with painter's tape.If you're only painting certain tiles, spread a tarp over the ground, securing it with tape or weighted objects.Gloves are required for painting the tile.If you want to paint a complex pattern, make a stencil and tape it in place.
Step 4: Paint your tile in aventilated area.
If you're painting slate floor tiles, open the windows and doors in the room.Paint slate tiles outside or near open windows if they are not adhering to the floor.If you're sensitive to strong smells, wear a respirator.Poison Control can be reached if you experience nausea or vomiting while painting slate tile.
Step 5: A thin layer of caulk is applied to the tile.
The primer and paint adhere better to the slate surface with the help of painter's caulk.Spread the caulk around the tile's surface with your fingers, until you achieve a thin, even coating.For an even coat, the caulk coating should be thin and translucent.Remove excess caulk with a razor.If you notice any bumps or dips, smooth them with a smooth substance.You don't have to wait for painter's caulk to dry, unlike primer and paint.
Step 6: The primer should be spread over the caulk.
Use a paint brush or spray can to cover the tile from one side to the other.For an even coating, apply the primer in thin, long strokes.If you want to paint tiles for a strong blond, use a primer that is specifically made for that.Before applying the paint, let the primer dry for 60 minutes.
Step 7: Put the first coat of paint on the tile.
Apply a coat of paint with a paintbrush or roller.Work your way from one end of the tile to the other.It's best to use latex or epoxy paint on slate tiles.If the paint is hard to spread, add a small amount of paint thinner.
Step 8: Apply more layers of paint.
You can apply additional layers of paint using the same method you used to apply the first one.The tile's color will be brighter and more opaque if you apply more coats.
Step 9: Allow your slate tile to cure for 48 hours.
After applying the last coat, leave your tile undisturbed and let it dry for a couple of days.Don't touch the tile until it has tried completely.If you step on the tile, check for smudges.It is possible to apply an additional coat of paint and cure it for another 48 hours.
Step 10: Take the painter's tape off your work.
After the tile has dried, peel off any painter's tape and check it for flaws.If you're not satisfied with the color's brightness, apply another layer of paint and let it cure.
Step 11: A water-based urethane sealant can be applied.
To coat the entire surface with paint sealant, use a paintbrush or roller.Apply an additional coat after the sealant has dried for about 60 minutes.The sealant should be re-applied every 6 months.