Wallpaper on Tiles: Renovate Without Demolishing

Do you have old tiles in your bathroom or kitchen that you just can't stand anymore? Maybe the color is outdated, the design is from the '70s, or you’re simply tired of them. The thought of calling a company, demolishing everything, making dust, and spending a fortune stops you?

We have good news for you: you don't need a jackhammer or costly waste disposal expenses to change the look of your home.

The question we hear most often is: "Is it possible to apply Wall Mural on tiles?". The short answer is: Yes, absolutely!

Using Wall Mural on tiles is the ideal solution if the classic painted bathroom tile ideas don't satisfy you. By following this guide, you will learn how to cover tiles without removing them, achieving a surprising aesthetic result.

Tiles are smooth, cold, and often uneven surfaces due to the grout, and to achieve a perfect and lasting aesthetic result, you need to follow a precise procedure.

In this guide, we explain step by step how to transform a tiled wall into a design surface, ready to welcome your new favorite Wall Mural.

1. Preparation is everything: 5 steps for a perfect installation

Applying Wall Mural on ceramic requires a bit more patience than on a plastered wall, but the result will be worth every effort. Here's what you need to do to avoid bubbles, detachment, or that unsightly "grid effect" where the grout shows through the wallpaper.

Step 1: Tile check-up

Before starting, take a good look at your walls.

• Are they stable? If the tiles are in good condition but some "wobble" or sound hollow, you need to secure them firmly before proceeding.
• Are they damaged? If there are deep cracks, broken tiles, or moldy and crumbly grout falling apart, unfortunately, there are no shortcuts: in this case, it's better to remove them and repair the wall.

Step 2: Goodbye to the grout (Leveling)

The number one enemy of wallpaper on tiles is the grout. If you apply the wallpaper directly, the grooves will remain visible in relief. You need to create a flat surface. Fill the grout and grooves using tile adhesive or a specific ceramic filler. Use a wide spatula to level the area so it becomes one with the tile surface.

Note: Avoid simple putty for filling; it often lacks the consistency or hardness suitable for this type of structural leveling.

Leveling the grout is essential to eliminate the grid effect under the wallpaper.

Step 3: Sanding to create "grip"

Wallpaper needs to grip. Tiles, especially glossy or glazed ones, are designed to be slippery and water-repellent. Once the grout filling is dry, you need to sand (or smooth) the entire surface. This step roughens and makes the tile porous, allowing the glue to penetrate and hold.

Sanding makes the surface porous and ready for glue adhesion.

Step 4: Deep cleaning

After sanding, you will have created a lot of dust. Dust is the worst enemy of adhesive.

1. Remove the bulk with a vacuum cleaner or brush.
2. Wash the tiles with a solution of water and neutral soap.
3. Rinse carefully and let dry completely. The wall must be perfectly dry.

Step 5: The professional's secret (Primer and Wall Mural liner)

The last step before the actual installation is the Primer (Preparatory protective wall base). Apply a coat of primer with a roller, let it dry, and if necessary, apply a second coat. This creates the ideal base.

Applying the primer ensures the wallpaper stays firmly in place over time.

Extra tip: For a magazine-worthy architectural result, consider applying a "Wall Mural liner" first using a dispersion adhesive. This intermediate layer further evens out the wall.

2. Essential tools and materials

Which Wall Mural to choose over tiles?

Now that your wall is smooth like a blank sheet, you can have fun with style. But be careful about the environment you are in. Since tiles are almost always in bathrooms or kitchens, humidity is a key factor.

For humid environments (Bathroom and Kitchen)

If you are looking for a Wall Mural to cover kitchen or bathroom tiles:

• Choose Vinyl or Fiberglass: These materials are durable and washable.
• The Fiberglass (Top of the line): If you want to cover the inside of the shower box, resin-coated Fiberglass is the only safe choice. It is waterproof, water-repellent, and fireproof.

For dry environments or decorative walls

You can technically also use TNT (Non-Woven Fabric) wallpapers.

• Extra Tip: If you choose a standard wallpaper in the bathroom, we strongly recommend applying a final transparent protection (resin).

4. Pro Tips: Corners, Sanitary Fixtures, and Outlets

Conclusion: A new face for your home