Cleaning and Covering the Tile
Wash the slate tile with bleach and water. In a bucket, mix a solution of bleach and water at a ratio of 1 c (0.24 L) of bleach per 1 US gal (3.8 L) of water. Dip a sponge or washcloth in the solution and scrub your tile in circular motions, removing any visible dirt or grime as you work from one end of the tile to the other. Towel or air dry the tile before applying any paint.
Inspect your tile for bumps or uneven areas. Sand down any bumps with fine-grit sandpaper to make the surface even. If you notice any dips or cracks, coat the tile in an epoxy sealant before applying any paint. Epoxy is a durable tile sealant that can hold uneven tiles together and keep your paint coats smooth. You can buy epoxy sealants from most home improvement stores. If you apply epoxy to one tile, apply it to the rest as well for visual consistency.
Cover any parts of the tile you don't want to paint with tape. If you want to paint part of the tile or make a pattern, block out any parts you need unpainted with painter's tape. Spread a plastic tarp over the ground surrounding the tile if you're only painting certain tiles, securing it in place with tape or weighted objects. Wear gloves to keep your hands clean and dry while painting the tile. If you want to paint a complex pattern, make a stencil and tape it in place over the tile.
Make or choose a well-ventilated area while painting your tile. Open any windows and doors in the room if you're painting slate floor tiles. For slate tiles that are not adhered to the floor, paint the tile outside or near open windows. Wear a respirator while you're painting if you're sensitive to strong smells. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded while painting the slate tile, exit the room until you feel better and contact Poison Control if you experience nausea or vomiting.
Applying the Paint
Coat the tile with a thin layer of painter's caulk. Painter's caulk helps the primer and paint adhere better to the slate surface. Squeeze the painter's caulk around the tile's surface and spread it around with your fingers until you achieve a thin, even coating. The caulk coating should be thin and translucent for an even coat. Scrape off any excess caulk with a razor. If you notice any dips or bumps, smooth them with sandpaper or epoxy before applying the caulk. Unlike primer and paint, you don't have to wait for painter's caulk to dry.
Spread a thin layer of primer over the caulk. Using a paint brush or a spray can, depending on the container, cover the tile from one side to the other. Apply the primer in thin, long strokes for an even coating. Use a paint primer that is specifically made for painting tiles for a strong blond. Let the primer dry for 30-60 minutes before applying the paint.
Add the first coat of paint to the tile. Using a paintbrush or roller, apply a coat of paint in long, even strokes. With minimal overlapping, work your way from one end of the tile to the other. Latex or epoxy paint generally adheres best on slate tiles. If the paint has a hard time spreading, add small amounts of paint thinner until you reach an easier consistency to work with.
Apply 2-3 more layers of paint. Letting each layer dry for 30-60 minutes apply additional layers of paint using the same method you did to add the first one. The more coats you apply, the brighter and more opaque your tile's color will be.
Curing the Painted Tile
Let your slate tile cure for 48 hours. After you've applied the last coat, leave your tile undisturbed and let it dry for about 2 days. Avoid stepping on or touching the tile until it has tried completely. If you accidentally touch or step on the tile before it's dried, check it for smudges. You may have to apply an additional coat of paint and let it cure for another 48 hours.
Peel off the painter's tape and inspect your work. Once the tile has dried, peel off any painter's tape and check your tile for imperfections. If you see any smudges or uneven areas, or if you're not satisfied with the color's brightness, apply another layer of paint and leave it again to cure.
Apply 2-3 coats of a water-based urethane sealant. With a paintbrush or roller, use long, even strokes to coat the entire surface in paint sealant. Let the sealant dry for about 30-60 minutes between layers before applying an additional coat. Re-apply the sealant every 6 months to protect your tile and paint coats from damage.
Finished.
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