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How do I remove paint from tiles in my bathroom. Half a tile just peeled off and I was inspired to remove the rest. I tried a scraper but this is not a valid method for me. I’m not sure what of paint it is . The tiles have a raised pattern on them so they are not flat. Advice would be welcome .
thank you
rosemary
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @RosemaryK. It's a pleasure to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about removing tile paint.
Chances are it's some type of epoxy paint designed for tiles. You'll likely need to use a chemical stripping agent to get the paint off, which will be a messy and potent smelling process. Depending on how many of these tiles need to have the paint removed from them, I'd advise considering painting over. If the stripper is really effective, it could make short work of the job, but in my experience, trying to remove epoxy paints is not exactly a fun process.
Make sure you use appropriate PPE gear like safety glasses and a respirator whilst working in a well-ventilated space.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
How difficult the removal process will be, depends on how well the stripper works, @RosemaryK. A little tip is to apply the stripper to the tiles and then tape down plastic bags over them to encapsulate the fumes. The stripper will be much for potent if it is confined like that. It might take a few applications to remove all the paint. Depending on the paint type, sometimes even with strippers, it can be a laborious job removing it.
Mitchell
I'd believe if the paint was hard to remove, that'll be the same for everyone, whether they are a professional or not. I'd encourage you to give it a go. You'll soon find out if the paint wants to budge with the stripper or not.
Mitchell
so happy - it worked - polystrip with a paint brush - did a few tiles a time, just reapplied in the corners as it was a bit stubborn- otherwise so satisfying- you could actually see the paint bubbling up before your eyes. Thank you Mitchell !
I'm thrilled that worked for you @RosemaryK! Sometimes it can be a little bit hit and miss.
As you previously mentioned, I'm not quite sure why they painted over them in the first place. The tiles look far nicer than the brown/grey paint.
Great restoration; what's next on your list of home improvements?
Mitchell
HI @RosemaryK
Thank you for sharing your list of home improvements. My colleague @MitchellMc is on a well-deserved break and will be back on Friday.
In reference to your list, I suggest using the Tuabmans Sunproof Exterior Paint for your fence. It's water-based so cleaning your brushes will be easy. It has UV protection mixed into it and can be tinted in almost any colour. For fence applications, I usually suggest using a low sheen finish as it does not absorb dust easily.
Would it be possible for you to post a photo of the location of your washing machine? I would be more than happy to make a sketch for you. This will allow you to see what the layout will look like once the box and shelf are in place. If you wish to add any other projects to the list, please let us know. We would be more than happy to provide assistance and information to your project.
Eric
