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Best Waterproof Paint for Shower Walls (and When Not to Use Paint)
Can you paint inside a shower? Only with the right coating. Compare epoxy, tile and tub paint, bathroom paint and waterproofing membranes for shower walls.
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Ordinary wall paint – even “bathroom paint” – is not meant for walls that get wet every day inside a shower. For the wet zone, use a two-part epoxy tile and tub coating (refinishing kit) over tile or fibreglass, or install a proper waterproof surface. Mildew-resistant bathroom paint (satin or semi-gloss) is the right choice for the rest of the bathroom, outside direct water spray.
What’s in this article4 sections
Which coating for which surface
| Area | Best product | Lasts |
|---|---|---|
| Tiled shower walls (direct spray) | Two-part epoxy tile & tub refinishing kit | Several years with care |
| Fibreglass or acrylic shower | Epoxy or acrylic tub & tile coating made for that surface | Several years |
| Bathroom walls outside the shower | Mildew-resistant satin/semi-gloss bathroom paint | 5+ years |
| Behind new tile (waterproofing) | Liquid waterproofing membrane | Life of the tile |
| Bare drywall inside a shower | Not suitable – replace with cement board and tile/panels | — |
SaleBestseller No. 1
Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile Gloss White 2-Part Refinishing Kit | 2-Part Epoxy Acrylic, Waterproof Finish, Bathtub, Sink & Ceramic Tile Refinishing, Porcelain...
- TUB & TILE REFINISHING KIT: Renews ceramic tile, porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, cast...
- TWO-PART EPOXY ACRYLIC: Combine the base and activator to create a durable coating with...
- IDEAL FOR HIGH-MOISTURE AREAS: Provides a durable, washable finish designed to refresh...
- SMOOTH, EVEN APPLICATION: Apply with a fine-bristle brush or 1/4-inch short-nap roller...
- DRY & RECOAT TIME: Dries to the touch in 1 hour, can be recoated after at least 1 hour...
SaleBestseller No. 2
DWIL Tile Paint, Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit with Tools, Water-based Bathtub Paint - Low Odor, Easy to Use, 25-30sq.ft, 16.5oz, Semi-Gloss White
- 【TUB & TILE REFINISHING KIT】 Our tub and tile paint boasts an advanced acrylic formula...
- 【Low Odor】 Breathe easy while renovating! Our water-based bathtub paint minimizes...
- 【Effortless Cleanup】 Our tub and tile paint can be cleaned up in seconds! Accidental...
- 【Wide Coverage】 Maximize efficiency with a 16.5oz bottle covering 25–30 sq.ft. per...
- 【Versatile Application】 Choose from 5 colors: white, black, light/dark gray, and...
SaleBestseller No. 3
Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile Satin White 2-Part Refinishing Kit | 2-Part Epoxy Acrylic, Waterproof Finish, Bathtub, Sink & Ceramic Tile Refinishing, Porcelain...
- TUB & TILE REFINISHING KIT: Renews ceramic tile, porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, cast...
- TWO-PART EPOXY ACRYLIC: Combine the base and activator to create a durable coating with...
- IDEAL FOR HIGH-MOISTURE AREAS: Provides a durable, washable finish designed to refresh...
- SMOOTH, EVEN APPLICATION: Apply with a fine-bristle brush or 1/4-inch short-nap roller...
- DRY & RECOAT TIME: Dries to the touch in 1 hour, can be recoated after at least 1 hour...
Bestseller No. 4
DWIL Tub Refinishing Kit, Epoxy Tub & Tile Paint, 20X Thicker Self-Leveling Bathtub Paint with Tools, Waterproof, Low Odor, High Gloss White Tub Paint for...
- 【Low Odor & Indoor-Friendly】This water-based, low-VOC bathtub paint is designed for a...
- 【Easy DIY Kit】This bathtub refinishing kit is designed for DIY and beginner users. It...
- 【Waterproof & Durable Finish】This epoxy coating forms a waterproof and stain-resistant...
- 【Smooth Self-Leveling Finish】The self-leveling epoxy formula spreads evenly during...
- 【Quick Cure & Dry Time】 Surface dries within 24 hours under normal conditions. Light...
How to paint tiled shower walls
- Deep-clean tile and grout; remove all soap scum and mould.
- Remove silicone caulk.
- Sand or etch the tile as the kit instructs, then rinse and let it dry fully.
- Mask fixtures and ventilate well; wear a respirator.
- Mix and apply the epoxy in thin coats with a foam roller.
- Let it cure for the full time (often 3–5 days) before using the shower.
- Re-caulk with fresh silicone.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using regular latex paint where water hits – it will peel and grow mildew.
- Painting over damp grout – trapped moisture blisters the coating.
- Using abrasive cleaners afterwards – they scratch epoxy finishes.
Frequently asked questions
Can you paint the inside of a shower?
Yes, but only with a coating made for it, such as a two-part epoxy tub and tile kit. Normal paint will fail.
Is bathroom paint waterproof?
It's moisture- and mildew-resistant, not waterproof. Use it outside direct water spray.
How long does painted shower tile last?
An epoxy coating applied with good prep can last several years.
