When you move into a pre-loved home, chances are you’re going to
need to change a few things to suit your personal style. This can be a costly
endeavor, especially when it comes to bathrooms and kitchens. Plumbing and
retiling can cost a pretty penny, and when you’ve just bought a new home you
might not have a great deal of cash to play around with.
A
great option for those who aren’t able to retile is to glaze. This is a more
affordable choice and the great news is with a little bit of research you
might be able to do the job yourself, giving a new lease of life to your
bathroom or kitchen. If you don’t feel comfortable completing the glazing
yourself, hire contractors to do the job (which is still a great deal cheaper
and less hassle than retiling).
Pros and Cons of Glazing
DIY
On the plus side glazing tiles is an incredibly cost
effective option that can add value to your home. It can help the aesthetic
of a room immeasurably. You should also bear in mind that glazing is quite
labor intensive and you won’t be able to use the room whilst it’s in
transition. Remember to check if your tiles can be glazed, and be aware of
the temperature and humidity as this can affect the process.
Method
Prep
Wearing
protective clothing (mask, goggles, and gloves) repairs any cracks or damage
to the tiles and peel off the caulk, then wipe them with isopropyl alcohol.
Next clean them with bleach and rinse, then scrub with an abrasive pad and
rinse a second time. Using steel wool move in small circular motions and
finally rinse again. Dry the tiles with a cloth and ensure there’s no residue
or debris on the surface.
Protect
Use
plastic drop cloths to protect the surrounding areas and cover any drains and
fixtures. It’s a good idea to remove as much as you can from the room –
especially if you’re using an aerosol
spray.
Apply
Now you can carefully
apply the glaze product with a paintbrush. It will need a few layers, so be
patient and opt for multiple thinner layers as opposed to thick, uneven ones.
If you have chosen to use a spray, shake and test before applying so you’re
aware of how it comes out. Use a steady motion and again apply two
coats.
Be sure to leave the protective plastic in place for
72 hours (if not longer), trying as hard you can to keep the temperature
between 75-85 degrees and humidity less than 80 percent.
