If your tiles are still in good condition, they can – theoretically – be painted over with tile varnish or paint. However, this measure is reserved for homeowners only, unless your landlord agrees to the beautification work (after all, it’s free to ask). However, it is much less complicated if you simply stick over the old tiles. The advantage lies not only in the easy implementation, but also in the residue-free removal if you move out.
The self-adhesive foils are already cut to size and available in different sizes (depending on the shape of the tile). They are moisture-resistant and can therefore be used in “wet” rooms such as the bathroom without any problems. The stickers can also be cleaned like ordinary tiles, but you should not use aggressive cleaning agents with chlorine or scouring milk. As far as the look is concerned, you can choose between a variety of different designs: There are monochrome and patterned tile stickers or glossy and matt. Mosaic and patchwork motifs as well as Spanish-Moorish designs are currently in particularly high demand. If you prefer things to be simple, you will of course also find subtle stickers, for example in classic white and plain gray – or even simple motifs.
Applying the tile stickers requires care and sensitivity. The cleaner you work, the better the result. Proceed as follows:
If you move house or want to try a new design, the old tile stickers need to be removed again. This is usually not a problem, most manufacturers even advertise how easily their products can be detached from the tiles. Nevertheless, there is no guarantee, especially if the stickers have been on the tiles for several years, that there will not be a few signs of wear and tear (i.e. residue from the adhesive). Or the film is difficult to remove. These tips can help here:
Take a standard hair dryer and hold it over the sticker: the heat should loosen the adhesive and the foil. Alternatively, you can also use a scraper for glass ceramic plates (such as the ceramic hob from the stove) to loosen the stickers. If there are still residues from the adhesive on the tiles at the end, an alcohol-based cleaner will help to remove the last traces. Then you should scrub the tiles clean again with water and a little washing-up liquid.
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