Is Refinishing My Kitchen Tiles Worth It?
Considering refinishing your kitchen tiles? There are many benefits to doing so. Here are some things to consider before making the decision: Durability, Cost per square foot, and Time frame. Refinishing is not for every homeowner. But if you can live with the cost and time frame, then tile refinishing is worth it. Read on to learn more. You may be surprised by the results!
(For more articles like this, click here: Can You Refinish Kitchen Tile?)
Cost
Refinishing your kitchen tiles can give them a brand-new look without spending a lot of money. It can take less than six hours to complete, and you can use them immediately. You can get a granite-like finish without spending money on granite. Refinishing your tiles will also add years of durability. Tile refinishing also lets you change the color without replacing them completely. However, you should consider a few factors before making a decision.
Refinishing your kitchen tiles is an effective way to save money by repairing damaged ones. You can save 50 percent by resurfacing your tiles rather than replacing them. Furthermore, the entire process takes less time than the cost of installing new ones. It is also less messy than replacing them. This can be done by a DIY enthusiast or a professional. Here are some benefits of refinishing your kitchen tiles:
Durability
The preparation and the paint you choose will determine the durability of refinishing your kitchen tiles. The best way to refinish your kitchen tiles is by using high-quality paint that is made for high-traffic areas. You will also want to use paint that is designed for interior/exterior applications, such as kitchen and bath paint. Choose a high-gloss finish for added durability and easy cleaning.
Ceramic tiles are very hard to damage. They can last for two decades or more. Refinishing them is a much cheaper alternative to replacing them. Compared to replacement, refinishing tiles can save up to 75% of the cost. It also takes less time than tearing up your old tiles and reinstalling them. Replacing them requires messy demolition and expensive tile-setting labor. Refinishing your tiles takes less than a day.
Time frame
When refinishing your kitchen tiles, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time. While you don’t need to rush through the whole process, it can take a few hours, depending on how much surface area you have to cover. The new coating must be allowed to dry for at least 48 hours, preferably more. While the surface may feel dry to the touch, you need to give it time to harden, allowing the top layers of tile to harden. This is necessary to give the new finish a long-lasting finish.
First, consider the tile’s condition. If it has been exposed to high traffic and moisture, painting it is a bad idea. The surface of the tile will not be as durable as a painted one, and it will show wear and tear in a short period. If you need a change of color, painting your kitchen tiles is not the best option. If the tiles are still in good condition, you can refinish them with a stain or glaze.
Cost per square foot
There are two basic types of tile refinishing that vary in cost and installation time. The first, called rectified tiles, features more accurate measurements and is more suitable for larger tiles with minimal grout space. Both types of tiles cost about $1 to $6 per square foot. However, the latter type is not as common as rectified tiles and will require additional labor costs. For a refinishing job, it is best to hire a tile contractor. A skilled technician like JLF Reglazers can ensure a color match, repair cracks, and make the tile look as good as new.
Another type of tile that requires periodic maintenance and replacement is porcelain. This material is harder and more water-resistant than other types of tile. Porcelain is also uniform in color, making it ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, countertops, and other high-traffic areas. Porcelain tiles range in cost from $3 to $9 per square foot. A tile installer should be able to give you an accurate estimate after inspecting your kitchen.
