A kitchen splashback might be a small part of the space, but it plays a big role in how your kitchen looks and feels. If the tiles are dated, discoloured or no longer your style, painting the splashback can be a simple, cost‑effective way to give your kitchen an instant refresh without the mess and expense of ripping tiles off the wall.
Here's what you need:
Here’s how you paint a kitchen splashback:
Step 1: Clean
Start by removing grease, food residue and cleaning product build‑up from the splashback tiles. Then, using Selleys Sugar Soap, wash down the splashback to cut through any remaining grime. Rinse well with clean water and allow the tiles to dry completely before moving on.
Expert Tip – Don’t skip this step. Any residue left behind can stop paint from bonding properly, leading to a poor finish.
Step 2: Sand
Once dry, lightly sand the entire splashback with 120 grit sandpaper to remove the glossy finish and help the primer adhere. You’re not trying to remove the surface, just rough it up enough to create a good surface for the primer to stick to. Pay extra attention to high‑use areas around sinks and cooktops. Wipe away all sanding dust with a damp cloth and allow the surface to dry.
Step 3: Mask
Use masking tape to mask around the benchtop, exposed cabinetry, sinks and any unmovable appliances. Trust us, taking the time to mask properly now will make the painting process cleaner and far less stressful later.
Step 4: Prime
Add the additive to the Dulux Renovation Range Primer and mix thoroughly. Apply 1x even coat, first cutting in around the edges before rolling the splashback tiles. The Dulux Renovation Range has much longer recoat times than standard wall paints. For the primer coat, 4 hours dry time is needed before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Paint
Apply 2x coats of Dulux Renovation Range Tiles & Benchtops in your chosen colour. Begin by cutting in with a brush, before rolling. Like the primer, Dulux Renovation Range Tiles & Benchtops has a much longer recoat time than regular wall paint. 8 hours drying time is needed before applying our next coat.
We suggest working in sections to try and limit the impact that this drying time has on your project. However, don’t rush to get painting again. For the best finish, you’re going to need to have some patience. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.
Step 6: Seal
Using the Dulux Renovation Range Clear Coat Gloss, apply 1x even coat to the splashback tiles. This will protect your newly painted tiles from everyday wear, adding extra durability and helping resist stains. Allow to cure completely for at least 8 hours.
A freshly painted splashback can have a surprising impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen. By choosing the right products and following the correct preparation and application steps, you can achieve a modern, durable finish without the cost and disruption of replacing tiles.
Ready to take your kitchen makeover even further? Explore our guides on painting kitchen cupboard doors and benchtops to create a cohesive, updated look throughout the space. With the right colour scheme and a weekend of DIY, you can transform your kitchen for a fraction of the cost of a renovation.