I had problems with tiles in the kitchen and bathroom. In the first, in addition to the "thickets" of fat, which, though with difficulty, was cleaned with the help of all known means, there were also chips and scratches. In the bathroom, the seams were completely unsightly. I thought for a long time how to make repairs without replacing my tiles, with my own hands. In the end, I made up my mind and it seems to me that it turned out not bad. In this article, I'll just tell you what techniques I used. Hope you find it helpful too.
Tile update options
So, right away, what methods can you use if you don't want to disassemble the tiles on the floor or walls:
- processing of tile joints;
- repainting the entire tiled surface;
- partial replacement;
- decoupage of a faded coating;
- decoration with unusual patterns.
So that the result of the transformation does not disappoint you, test the chosen method on an inconspicuous area or on an identical tile.
How to update seams
As I said at the beginning of this article, the biggest problem in the bathroom was the seams. What algorithm did I follow when updating them:
- I removed the old grout with a construction knife. Pre-treated the seams with a softener to make them come off more easily.
- Then I washed the tiles and the space between them. The dirt was removed with a stiff brush and dishwashing detergent. I had dark spots on the tiles here and there, they were removed with a solution of acetic acid.
- Then I applied a new grout. I decided to choose a dark one (before I had a light tile and a light grout, I thought that if the seams were brown, then the dirt on them would not be visible later, and the contrast would be interesting).
If you do not want to "bother" like that, then you can simply paint over the seams with special paint or even a marker. But if you have time, then I would advise you to completely replace the grout, because this method will not help for a long time.
And I also advise you to regularly wash the tiles so that they do not lose their appearance, even if just with a wet sponge without any means.
Of course, there are also special means for removing dirt from tile joints. If you are not so bad, then you can just use them. There is no difficulty, just read the instructions and go.
Replacing individual tiles
Thank goodness I didn't need to replace the tiles. Cost of repair and cleaning. But this problem often happens. Therefore, I will tell you about this. What to do:
- Remove grout from joints in the desired location.
- Drill several holes in the center of the tile.
- Using a chisel, remove it.
- Remove glue and grout residues.
- Apply special glue to the empty area.
- Fix the tile. To provide a more secure fit, you can use crosses. They need to be removed only after the glue has dried.
- Rub in the grouting compound.
- Clean the surface with a damp piece of cloth.
Design ideas
Design "moves" can not only update the look of the tiles, but also give the whole room a completely new look. Here you can not limit your imagination. I've used stencil and paint in some places to patch up the scratches.
Things to consider:
- The proportions of the premises depend on the clarity of the lines. Horizontal stripes expand the space, vertical stripes visually increase the height.
- Patterns are best combined with plain borders. They can be placed both at the bottom of the wall and under the ceiling.
- The color scheme can be monochromatic or contrasting. In a small room, dark shades and abrupt transitions should be abandoned. They are only suitable for spacious rooms. The list of the most spectacular combinations of "duet" from ordinary tiles and mosaics.
Paint and stickers
The easiest method. There are two types of paint for tile renovation:
- oil;
- epoxy enamel.
The second option is more preferable.
If you decide to use oil paint, then apply a layer of varnish on it.
Stickers can be vinyl and silicone. When choosing a shade, you need to take into account the compatibility of the shades used, the texture of the coating and the thickness of the inter-tile layer.
To manually paint the tiles, you can use a stencil, as I did. My algorithm:
- I chose a template.
- I prepared the surface, cleaned it, it is especially important to eliminate all traces of grease (this is how I renewed the tiles in the kitchen).
Then everything is simple, you apply a stencil, you can fix it with ordinary tape, take the paint and draw. Leave this place to dry. If you also update the tiles in the kitchen in this way, I recommend not to cook there while the paint dries. Get by with a multicooker or microwave)
Decoupage
What can be used:
- mosaic tiles - suitable for facing the most difficult areas;
- steel - squares, united into a "curtain" by means of rings, can be attached to the ceiling;
- slate - a decorative option suitable for decorating the most visited places in the house;
- pebbles - wallpaper is made from ceramics and natural stone. Mosaic-mesh squares will make any room more original.