VIDEO: How to Repaint Polystyrene Ceiling Tiles

Polystyrene ceiling tiles are so easy to install, and they can be painted to any colour you want. We’ve decided to show you how easy it is to repaint our polystyrene ceiling tiles to the colour of your choice and make sure that your DIY home design project is a total success.

How to Repaint Polystyrene Ceiling Tiles

1. Dust the tiles first. A soft brush or vacuum attachment clears loose dust so the paint goes on evenly.
2. Use a water-based latex paint. Avoid oil-based or solvent-heavy paints, which can soften or warp polystyrene.
3. Thin the first coat slightly so it doesn’t pool in the tile’s texture, then apply a second full coat once dry.
4. Use a small foam roller to get an even finish into the pattern detail without flattening it.
5. Let each coat dry fully (check your paint can for time) before adding the next.

Looking for a new pattern instead of a repaint? Browse the full ceiling tile range.

A Few Things to Know Before You Start

Because polystyrene has a raised texture, a paint sprayer or heavy roller nap can flatten the detail you’re trying to preserve. A short-nap foam roller keeps the pattern crisp while still covering the tile evenly. If your tiles were installed with a glue-up adhesive, check a hidden corner first to make sure the paint doesn’t react with any residue. Two thin coats almost always look better than one heavy coat, since a heavy coat is more likely to pool in the grooves and take far longer to dry evenly.