Isabella Flores
Wallpaper in bathrooms is common, but it can be tricky to manage due to the high humidity and steam. If you're considering painting over existing wallpaper, it's important to note that it can be done, but there are some challenges. Painting over wallpaper may be a good option if you're looking for a quick fix or if removing the wallpaper could damage the walls. However, it's important to prepare and prime the walls correctly, and you may need to apply more than one coat of paint. On the other hand, removing wallpaper can be time-consuming and tedious, and it may be challenging to find a vinyl wallpaper that suits your taste. Ultimately, both options are viable, but careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each is essential before making a decision.
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What You'll Learn
Painting a bathroom cabinet with milk paint
Painting a bathroom is a great way to freshen up the space and give it a new look. It is trickier than painting other areas of the house, as you have to manoeuvre around fixtures like sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers. It is also important to consider that the painted surface will be exposed to damp warm air, as well as chemicals such as fragrances, hair spray, deodorant, and cleaning supplies.
If you are painting a bathroom cabinet with milk paint, here are some steps you can follow:
Preparation:
Before you begin painting, it is important to prep the night before. This includes laying down a drop cloth or thick brown kraft paper to protect the floor and other work surfaces. Secure it in place with blue painter's tape. You should also place painter's tape on any surrounding surfaces that might come in contact with the paint, such as the bathroom counters, the inside of the bathroom cabinet, and the cabinet moulding. Remove all the hardware on the cabinet doors and drawers, and keep them in a container with a locking lid. Finally, remove the contents of the bathroom cabinets.
Priming:
For bathroom cabinets, it is recommended to use a primer before painting with milk paint. In the case of the maple cabinet, two coats of Zinsser 123 Water-Based All Surface Primer were used, with plenty of drying time between each coat.
Painting:
Once the primer is dry, you can start painting with milk paint. You can use a paintbrush for the raised portions of the cabinet and a foam roller for the flat portions. General Finishes Milk Paint is a popular choice and comes in a variety of colours, including Snow White and Driftwood. You may need two or more coats of paint, depending on the coverage you want. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
Sanding and Sealing:
After the final coat of paint has dried, you can lightly sand the cabinet using fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections. To protect the paint and ensure its durability, it is recommended to seal it with a water-resistant sealer or a top coat, such as General Finishes' High-Performance Top Coat. Make sure the paint is completely dry before applying the sealer or top coat, typically at least 48 hours or longer.
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Choosing the right paint finish
Painting your bathroom walls can give your space a fresh, new look. When it comes to choosing the right paint finish, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, bathrooms are high-humidity areas with frequent exposure to moisture, steam, and splashes. Therefore, it is essential to select a paint finish that is moisture-resistant and durable.
Secondly, the paint finish should be easy to clean and maintain. Flat, matte, and eggshell finishes tend to absorb moisture, making them more susceptible to mould and mildew growth and challenging to clean. On the other hand, higher-sheen finishes like semi-gloss and gloss are more moisture-resistant and easier to wipe down. Satin paint, which falls between flat and gloss in terms of sheen level, is a popular choice for bathrooms as it offers a good balance between stain resistance and a subdued look. It is worth noting that higher-gloss finishes can highlight imperfections on walls, so if you are looking for a finish that can hide wall marks, an eggshell finish may be preferable.
Thirdly, the paint finish can impact the overall feel and perceived size of the bathroom. Light colours and higher-gloss finishes can make the space feel larger and brighter by reflecting more light. Dark tones, on the other hand, can create a cosy and sophisticated atmosphere.
Finally, it is important to consider the specific area of the bathroom you are painting. For example, if you have drywall in the upper section of the shower or tub area, a higher-gloss paint is recommended. In contrast, drier areas of the bathroom can use satin or eggshell paint sheens.
In summary, when choosing the right paint finish for your bathroom, opt for a finish that is moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and complements the aesthetic you desire.
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Preparing the bathroom walls
Cleaning and Surface Preparation:
Start by thoroughly cleaning your bathroom walls. Use a mixture of household bleach and water (three parts water to one part bleach) or an effective household cleanser designed to remove mildew and grime. This step is critical to ensure the paint adheres well and prevents the growth of mildew. After cleaning, wipe down the walls with a rag and let them dry completely.
Protecting Surfaces and Fixtures:
Cover any surfaces or fixtures you don't want to paint, such as the toilet, sink, or vanity cabinet, with plastic sheeting. Use painter's tape or masking film to protect edges and borders. Spread a drop cloth or recycled building paper on the floor to catch any paint splatters.
Priming:
If your walls are unfinished, previously painted with a different colour, or have stains, patches, or smoke damage, consider using a primer. Choose a mould and mildew-resistant primer, especially for bathrooms due to their high humidity. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Painting Technique:
Use a paintbrush to cut in the borders of your project, then switch to a roller and paint tray for larger areas. If you're working in tight spaces, use a small roller to get into those areas more easily.
Paint Selection:
Select a high-quality paint that is mildew-resistant and formulated to withstand heat and humidity. Consider the sheen you desire—higher sheen finishes are more durable and easier to clean, while flatter sheens may be preferred for hiding wall imperfections. Light colours are generally recommended for small spaces like bathrooms to avoid making the room feel too dark.
Remember to let each coat of paint dry completely before applying the next coat, and always work from the top down, starting with the ceiling if applicable.
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Testing paint coverage and stain resistance
Painting a bathroom is different from painting other areas of the home. Bathrooms are small, wet, and heavily used. Water will eventually get on your paint, no matter how careful you are. Therefore, it is important to choose the right paint finish. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are more stain-resistant and easier to clean.
Testing Paint Coverage
To test the coverage of your paint, start by applying one consistent coat to a piece of card stock that has been painted black. Allow the paint to dry completely. Then, use a colorimeter to measure how well the paint covers the black paint. Repeat this process for each paint sample you want to test, and average the results to get an accurate idea of the paint's coverage.
Testing Stain Resistance
To test the stain resistance of your paint, apply the paint to a plastic panel and allow it to dry. Once dry, apply two lines of soil, such as coffee and a soot-like substance, to the painted surface. Let the soil dry, and then wash the painted panel. Use a colorimeter to measure the colour of the paint on the rinsed areas. The closer the cleaned portions are to the original coat, the more stain-resistant the paint is.
Additional Considerations
- It is crucial to properly prepare the surface before painting. Clean the walls with a mixture of household bleach and water (three parts water to one part bleach) or a household cleanser designed to kill mildew. Then, wipe them down with a rag and let them dry completely.
- Consider using a primer, especially if you are painting over dark walls or unfinished walls. A high-quality mildew-resistant primer will help prevent mould and mildew growth.
- Choose a paint that is moisture-resistant and suitable for high-humidity areas. Latex paint is a popular option for bathrooms as it offers good moisture resistance, is easy to apply, and dries quickly.
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Using colour to create a mood
Painting your bathroom walls can be a great way to refresh your space and give it a new, clean and fresh feel. Colour can be used to create a mood and completely transform the atmosphere of a room.
If you're looking to create a light and airy space, opt for lighter colours or white shades. These colours promote feelings of freshness and cleanliness. Dark colours, on the other hand, can make a small space feel smaller and more enclosed. However, there are cases where darker colours can work well in a bathroom, especially if you stick to one shade throughout the room, a technique known as "colour drenching". This can create a refined and distinct look, especially when paired with brass fixtures and hardware. If you're feeling adventurous, you could try a bold colour like Red Pepper or Flagstaff Green for a vibrant and invigorating presence.
When choosing your paint, it's important to consider the specific needs of a bathroom environment. Bathrooms are wet places, so it's crucial to use a high-quality, mildew-resistant paint that can resist moisture. Flat or matte sheens are not recommended for bathrooms as they can develop water streaks. Instead, opt for a satin or semi-gloss finish, which are more stain-resistant and easier to clean. If your walls are in good condition, you may not need to use a primer, as some paints are self-priming.
Before you start painting, make sure to thoroughly clean and prepare your walls. This includes removing any items that can be easily taken out, such as mirrors, towel racks, and light switch plates. Cover anything that can't be removed with plastic sheeting and tape off any areas you don't want to paint. Once your space is prepared, you can start painting!
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use satin or semi-gloss paint in bathrooms as they are more stain-resistant and easier to clean. If you want a modern matte finish, Aura® Bath & Spa is a mildew-resistant paint that is formulated to stand up to heat and humidity.
Lighter colours or white will promote feelings of freshness and cleanliness. Dark colours can make the space feel smaller, but there are cases where a darker colour can work, especially if you stick to one shade throughout the bathroom.
It is important to clean your walls before painting to ensure there is no soap scum or mildew that could interfere with your paint job. You can use a mixture of household bleach and water or a wall-cleaner. If there is existing paint on your walls, you may want to sand them to create a better surface for the paint to adhere to.
If your walls are in good condition and have been previously painted, you may not need to prime them. However, if your walls are unfinished or have never been painted before, it is recommended to use a quality primer to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Painting behind the toilet can be tricky. You can use a thin roller to carefully paint the space behind the toilet or remove the toilet tank to access the space more easily. Be sure to turn off the water supply before removing the tank.
