An eyesore in many homes, outdated tiles present an interior design challenge to homeowners across the country. Whether it’s a bathroom plagued by dark and gloomy slates or a particularly unattractive kitchen splashback in an over-the-top colourway, these unwanted styles are time-consuming to remove and expensive to replace, but what can be done?
At The Panel Company, we know some great, cost-effective solutions to covering up tiles in bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms. So, if you’re looking to give your space a much-needed update, join us as we share some stress-free advice on how to cover tiles quickly and cheaply. We’ll even include some of our favourite tile cover up ideas to help spark some home-renovation inspiration to get you started.
Can you cover bathroom tiles?
Yes, there are a number of methods to choose from, the most popular and easiest to accomplish is by using PVC panels to cover old, unwanted tiles. This durable cladding solution provides a refreshing update to any room while requiring minimal upkeep, providing renovators with the additional bonus of easier maintenance than your previous, traditional tiles.
How to cover tiles using PVC panels
Praised for their waterproof properties, PVC panels are ideal for rooms that gather higher amounts of moisture than others in the home. This is most common in spaces where food is cooked or a shower is running, such as in kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re considering using PVC panels to cover your old tiles, here’s how to install them:
Recommended tools to use:
- Fine Tooth Saw or Jigsaw
- Stanley Knife
- Tape Measure
- Solvent-free Adhesive or Sealant
- Pins, Staples or Screws
- First, measure the length of the panels and wall to ensure the panels will fit correctly. However, if you’re not sure where to start when it comes to accurately measuring these, you can use our handy guide on how to measure for PVC wall panels. This will ensure you’ve taken the necessary steps including sketching out a floor plan, measuring the length and height of each wall, as well as doing the appropriate calculations to ensure an easy fit.
- Once both the wall and panels have been measured, cut your first panel to size using a saw or jigsaw, making sure to remove any protective film beforehand.
- Once cut, run a generous portion of solvent-free adhesive or sealant along the back of the panel, before fitting on the wall.
- Secure the panel to the wall using screws, staples or pins through the panel’s tongue - do this every 30cm on each panel. Our panels have a convenient tongue and groove system that’s watertight and helps to cover any staples or screws - making them a great choice for any renovation project.
- Repeat this process until all walls are covered and sealed, and you’re done!
How to cover tiles using paint
Another option for a tile cover up project is to give your existing tiles a lick of paint. Using paint will allow you to upgrade your bathroom to match your exact colour requirements, creating a brand new, clean appearance. But it’s important to use waterproof paint so it doesn’t get damp or collect mould. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to paint over tiles to achieve the best possible effect:
Recommended tools to use:
- Tile cleaner
- Waterproof tile paint
- Paint brush
- Paint primer
- Sealant
- Sandpaper
- Before you begin, it’s important to make sure the tiles are clean, which can be done with a tile cleaner and sponge or scourer, depending on how bad the dirt is. It’s important that you leave enough time for the tiles to dry off before moving on to the next step.
- Once the tiles are dry, use sandpaper to remove the top layer to help roughen up the gloss or matt finish, allowing the paint to stick to the surface of the tiles with ease when applied. Make sure you remove any dust left on the tiles from the sanding with a wet cloth before moving onto the next step.
- Next, open the windows and doors to ensure your room is well ventilated before applying the paint primer onto the tiles and grout.
- Once the primer has dried, apply the paint. It’s advisable to use two coats, but, depending on the type of paint you’re using (e.g Latex Paint, Epoxy Paint, etc) it’s important to read the manufacturer instructions before applying.
- For best results, don’t forget to apply our sealant over the tiles to ensure a watertight seal.
Painting over tiles can provide them with added durability however it isn’t always the fastest solution since you’ll need to add multiple coats. It’s worth noting that there is always a risk of the paint peeling off the wall or chipping if done incorrectly, so it’s vital to do your research and understand the steps needed to effectively paint over the tiles.
Tile cover up ideas
If you’re interested in using PVC panels as an easy tile cover up method, we stock a range of attractive, durable cladding to cover bathroom tiles. Easy to clean and simple to install, PVC panels will help to save you a lot of time compared to other tile cover up ideas. You can even use our useful PVC panel cleaning guide to help, using a simple sponge, soapy water and cloth to get the job done. Depending on your design preference, there are a range of tile-effect and non tile-effect panels to choose from.
Tile-effect panels
Black Velvet Tile Effect Panels
Straight from our brand new solid core panel collection, our black velvet shower panels create a relaxing, tranquil space, transforming your bathroom from an old, outdated room to a place you’re able to call your sanctuary. These contemporary panels also come with their own convenient installation guide, as well as a lifetime warranty and UV resistance. Solid core wall panels provide a quick and easy tile cover up solution that’s made to last.
White Snow Tile Effect Panels
Featuring a luxurious, high-shine gloss finish which creates a bright, fresh appearance in your bathroom, our white snow shower panels are another great option from our Berry Alloc Wall & Water range. Exuding a spa-like feel, these realistic tile effect panels provide everything you need to create a space dedicated to enhancing well-being, providing a calm atmosphere to relax and unwind in.
Victorian Blue Tile Effect Panels
If you’re after a boho style, take a look at our mosaic tile effect panels, featuring unique patterns in a range of subtle tones including the classic bathroom colours of blue and beige. Complete with a lustrous finish created by the glass-like acrylic, these panels will add character to any space.
Nautical Wood Wall Panels
For a rustic look, browse our range of wood effect panels, created with a washed watercolour print. Our nautical wood wall panels create a relaxing, beach-like feel in your space, featuring low light reflectivity, these captivating panels include a soft-touch flat surface.
Wall Art Washed Wood Wall Panels
For a truly unique look, our Vox Kerradeco cladding allows you to introduce an element of art into your bathroom with these unique, detailed panels. Straightforward to install and complete with a compelling, textured finish, this washed-wood cladding brings urban art straight into your home.
