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How long painted tiles last ultimately comes down to the quality of the paint job and how much wear and tear the tiles get. It’s possible the paint job will only last about six months if the tiles are in a high-traffic area and they weren’t properly cleaned, sanded, and primed prior to painting and sealing. Well-painted tiles in a low-traffic area should last at least a year.

For glass tile, you want to use unsanded grout. Sanded grout is a stronger and grittier cement grout that is great for installing tiles with wider gaps and into joints. However, it is susceptible to scratching glass tile and is more difficult to use in thinner gaps. Unsanded grout, while more expensive, is easier to fit between thin gaps and is less harsh on delicate materials, like glass tile.

Yes, you can tile over existing tiles in a bathroom, but it is not always recommended. For this method to be successful, the original tile surface must be clean, flat, and free of damage such as cracks, unevenness, mold, or mildew. While tiling over existing tiles can save time and money, there are potential drawbacks. The new adhesive may not bond properly, and the process adds extra weight to the wall or floor. Additionally, the increased height of the surface could interfere with door clearances. For the best and most durable results, removing the old tiles before installing new ones is generally the better option.

When considering the types of grout for your project, unsanded grout is the best choice for penny tile. Unsanded grout can fit better into narrow spaces, like those between the small penny tiles, and it’s easier to smooth out for a seamless finish. However, if you’re unsure, check with a tile installation pro to determine which grout is best for your specific project.