How to Paint Plastic Wall Tile

Written By
Justin Obrien
Justin Obrien
Published: Jul 17, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Once you learn how to paint your plastic wall tile, you can change the color any time you want. Painting plastic tile can be done in a few different ways, but most of these ways are rather messy and take a bit more time. With typical plastic paints, your color choices are limited. Learn how to use any color semi-gloss paint you choose.

Things You Will Need

  • Rustoleum plastic primer spray
  • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
  • Painter's tape
  • Fine grit sandpaper
  • Damp cloth
  • Semi-gloss paint
  • Paintbrush
  • Small trim paint roller
  1. Hang and drape the plastic sheeting or drop cloths to cover as much of the surrounding area as possible to avoid getting everything covered in overspray from the primer. Sand the plastic tiling with the fine-grit sandpaper. Make sure you are getting every inch of the plastic because the idea is to make sure there is a rough surface for the primer to grab onto. Wipe the tiling with the damp cloth to remove the debris from sanding, and allow it to air dry.

  2. Apply the primer spray in a sweeping side-to-side motion. Use light coverage. Also make sure to maintain a distance of at least 6 inches from the plastic tiling to avoid dripping. Allow the primer to dry.

  3. Apply the semi-gloss paint using the paintbrush first, making sure you get all your edging and cutting in done. Apply more semi-gloss paint to the rest of the plastic tiling with the paint roller. Add as many coats as you need to obtain the look you desire, letting each coat dry thoroughly before adding another.

The Drip Cap

  • Plastic wall tile can be costly to replace.
  • The best thing that you can do with a budget in mind is to paint the plastic wall tile into something more desirable for you.
  • Hang and drape the plastic sheeting or drop cloths to cover as much of the surrounding area as possible to avoid getting everything covered in overspray from the primer.
Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.