So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Sunday, March 15, 2009

How to Paint Ceramic Tile Easily and Inexpensively

By Sue Krippner

Homeowners with older homes or those looking to change their interior design often ask the question, how to paint ceramic tile? The good news is it can be done easily and inexpensively, bringing a whole new look to a room.

When evaluating how to paint ceramic tile, consider the preparations. If the tile is cracked, caulk needs to be applied to fill them in. If the tile is chipped, a quick-drying epoxy needs to be used. The tile has to be cleaned thoroughly with soap and a scrub brush to remove dirt, dust, wax and grease, and the grout needs to be cleaned with a grout cleaner and small brush. Everything needs to be well dried before applying paint.

How to paint ceramic tile using the proper technique for floors, walls, or countertops is rather easy. A roller with a low nap is ideal for walls and floors to prevent bubbles in the paint. Equally effective is a sprayer for walls and floors, but because sprayers have the tendency to overspray, use a protective covering on furniture, nearby surfaces and other items in the vicinity.

When thinking about how to paint ceramic tile, keep in mind that the proper use of paint is essential for a quality job that will look great. Without the correct paint, peeling can occur. Oil-based paints, epoxy paints, or water-based paints containing urethane resin are recommended for painting ceramic tile. Look for a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint for the best finished look.

How to paint ceramic tile also includes the grout. Before painting, examine the grout to see if it needs to be regrouted. There are two choices, painting the grout the same color as the tile, or using a contrasting color. For a contrast, taping off the grout lines with acrylic masking tape will need to be done.

How to paint ceramic tile using decorative designs takes a bit more time than simply using one color, but the results are phenomenal. Adding a decorative design pattern is common on walls and countertops. Once the tile is painted, use a stencil to create your design. You can also create a design by using two different paint colors. Geometric patterns and stripes are examples of designs that can be achieved by painting individual tiles a different color.

When deciding how to paint ceramic tile in areas that typically get wet, like the bathroom and kitchen, there are some things to consider. In the kitchen, ceramic tile backsplashes tend to get wet, but they can be painted as long as any water is wiped off as soon as possible. In the bathroom, the ceramic tile showers and tubs are always getting wet, so painting them is not recommended since the paint would not hold up under such constant wet conditions.

How to paint ceramic tile to achieve the best success is to use a coating after applying the paint. A clear, water-based urethane is best and should be applied at least two days after the painting is completed. This gives the paint ample time to dry thoroughly and adhere well to the tile's glossy finish. The rule of thumb is to apply several coats of urethane. By applying multiple coatings, you will protect the painted tiles.

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