Tile repair and matching

[machinist]

I have a bathroom wall that's tiled, and during some plumbing work under the sink, a couple of tiles were broken to access the pipes. The area was filled with what I believe is concrete, and although it is under the sink, it looks pretty bad. I'm not sure I'll be able to find an exact match for the tiles. What would be the best color or finish option to cover this area that would blend in well with the rest of the wall? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[FatimaandAhmed]

Hi Machinist!

One option is to use tile paint, which is specifically designed for covering tiles and can help the patched area blend with the rest of the wall. Another easy solution is to apply peel-and-stick tiles, which come in a variety of styles and can be a great way to quickly cover the spot without the need for professional help. If you want to add a decorative touch, you could place a small mosaic border or decorative trim around the patched area, giving it a more intentional look. Lastly, if the area is under the sink, you could consider adding a small shelf or accessory to hide the patch and even provide extra storage or style. These options should help make the patch less noticeable and blend seamlessly with the rest of the bathroom.

If you can, sharing the color or style of the existing tiles would help narrow down the options, but these ideas should work well regardless!

[machinist]

The tiles are a dull white with greyish lines. If I decide to use tile paint, do you think it will hold up well over time, especially with moisture in the bathroom?

[FatimaandAhmed]

Since you're only covering the repaired area, tile paint could be a good solution to blend it in with the rest of the tiles. For the best results, choose a moisture-resistant tile paint that’s designed for high-humidity areas like bathrooms. If you apply it carefully on the patched area, it should hold up well over time, especially if the area isn't exposed to constant water contact. It might not be as durable as the original tiles, but it should be fine for a smaller, less exposed patch. Just make sure to clean and prep the surface properly for the best adhesion.

[machinist]

Thanks for the advice! Just wondering, can tile paint also be applied directly over the existing tiles, or would I need to do anything special to prep them first?

[FatimaandAhmed]

You're welcome! Tile paint can be applied directly over existing tiles, but proper preparation is key to ensuring good adhesion and durability. You'll need to thoroughly clean the tiles to remove any dirt, grease, or soap residue, then lightly sand the surface to create a rough texture for better paint grip. Using a high-quality primer designed for tiles is also recommended before applying the paint. This helps the paint bond better and prevents peeling over time. If the tiles are in a high-moisture area, sealing the paint with a clear protective topcoat can add extra durability.

[machinist]

Thanks for the great advice! I appreciate all the helpful tips. 👍