Get matched with top tile: ceramic and porcelain repairers in your area

People use the terms refinishing, resurfacing, and reglazing interchangeably. Refinishing is a process that repairs old tiles and gives them a fresh new coat of finish. This is also called tile resurfacing or reglazing.

Yes, you can refinish tiles as a DIY project, but it’s important to follow all the steps involved. These include the following:

1. Clean the tiles or hire a local tile cleaning service to remove all the residue (soap film, oil, grease, and dirt).

2. Etch the tile to ensure the refinishing solution adheres properly.

3. Fill in any cracks or chips in the tile.

4. Recoat the grout.

5. Repair any missing or damaged caulking where applicable.

6. Apply the refinishing product, primer, and enamel.

Your newly reglazed tile should last between 10 and 15 years with proper installation. However, higher-traffic areas and moisture may result in a reduced life span. Explore the cost of different tile types to determine which material works best for your home and needs.

Your bathtub and tile refinishing cost will likely seem like a small price to pay for the transformation it offers. Provided your tile and grout are both intact, refinishing will bring a brand-new style at a fraction of the cost.

Yes, most ceramic tile is paintable with specific epoxy or tile paints. However, you’ll want to avoid areas of heavy use or moisture, such as countertops, showers, and bathtubs. Paint can crack, bubble, or wear away over time, especially on floors.