Yes, you can paint shower walls. Since they are exposed to constant water and high humidity, you shouldn’t use regular wall paint. Instead, you need to use a durable, waterproof refinishing kit (like a two-part epoxy).
For shower walls, use a 100% acrylic latex paint specifically designed for high-humidity areas, as it resists moisture, cracking, and mildew. For the actual inside of the shower where water beats down, use specialized waterproof tub and tile paint kits. Choose a satin or semi-gloss finish as they cure to a hard, moisture-resistant surface that is easy to wipe clean.
But it's not the best idea in all instances. If your tile is in regular contact with a considerable amount of moisture, painting is probably not the best move—your paint job is simply not going to last. So that's bad news if you're debating whether to paint your dated shower tile.
For areas subject to continuous direct water exposure (like inside a shower stall), standard wall paints will fail. You must use a heavy-duty epoxy-acrylic kit or apply a waterproofing liquid membrane behind tile. For humid bathroom walls and ceilings outside the shower, a high-quality, mold-resistant interior paint is suitable.
Shower paint or a refinished tub typically lasts 1 to 5 years for DIY applications, while professional tub and tile refinishing can last 10 to 15 years. Longevity depends heavily on usage, prep work, and the specific application method.
For most people around age 70, bathing or showering two to three times per week is sufficient, according to senior care professionals. Daily showers are often unnecessary and can strip aging skin of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential infections.
Refinishing a tub and shower costs $600 to $1,000.
Paint instead of tiles is an option also for those on a tight budget or those who slightly want to reduce the cost of their bathroom renovation. Bathroom paint is definitely cheaper than ceramic tiles. It may not be as durable, but if you choose wisely, it will look good for long.
If you're looking for waterproofing paint to protect your shower from mold, mildew and water damage, you've come to the right place. We offer a wide selection of waterproofing paints in a variety of colours and finishes.
Scuff the Surfaces
Use 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper to thoroughly sand the entire surface. Sanding roughens the surface and helps the shower paint to bond. Use a vacuum cleaner or clean cloth to wipe away sanding residue. Wipe down all surfaces with a tack cloth to remove the last traces of dust before painting.
Yes, you can absolutely repaint a shower. Instead of an expensive, time-consuming renovation, you can refinish a fiberglass, acrylic, or tiled shower using durable, high-adhesion specialty kits (like two-part epoxy or urethane-based coatings). Proper surface preparation is critical to ensure the paint doesn't peel.
Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa is designed specifically for bathrooms, offering a premium matte finish that resists moisture, mildew, and frequent cleaning. Aura Bath & Spa is our top choice because it's the only bathroom paint with both a low sheen and the durability needed in high-traffic, high-moisture rooms.
To create a flattering, relaxing, and easy-to-maintain space, avoid colors that make small or humid spaces feel cramped, dingy, or stark. Interior designers specifically advise steering clear of the following paint categories:
Yes, you can paint shower walls. Since they are exposed to constant water and high humidity, you shouldn’t use regular wall paint. Instead, you need to use a durable, waterproof refinishing kit (like a two-part epoxy).
For high-humidity bathrooms, the best choices are premium acrylic latex paints with built-in mildewcides and high moisture resistance. Use a satin or semi-gloss finish for walls and ceilings to repel water and allow for easy cleaning. For optimal mold prevention, choose formulas specifically designed for spa-like environments.
The absolute cheapest and easiest way to do shower walls is using glue-up shower panels (like FRP or vinyl sheets), or budget-friendly large-format ceramic tiles. These options cost between $30 to $150 per sheet/box and significantly cut down on contractor labor costs or DIY time.
For direct water exposure in the "splash zone" of a shower, standard waterproof paints will fail over time; you must use a liquid waterproofing membrane (like Custom Building Products RedGard) under your tile or decorative finish. For bathroom walls outside the shower or above the tile, the following premium, mold-resistant paints excel in high-humidity areas:
Shower paint or a refinished tub typically lasts 1 to 5 years for DIY applications, while professional tub and tile refinishing can last 10 to 15 years. Longevity depends heavily on usage, prep work, and the specific application method.
Cons:
For shower walls, use a 100% acrylic latex paint specifically designed for high-humidity areas, as it resists moisture, cracking, and mildew. For the actual inside of the shower where water beats down, use specialized waterproof tub and tile paint kits. Choose a satin or semi-gloss finish as they cure to a hard, moisture-resistant surface that is easy to wipe clean.
Using the wrong type of paint for a specific room or surface can result in poor durability, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms. Choose the Right Paint for Each Room: For bathroom walls, select mildew-resistant or mold-resistant paints, which are specially designed to handle humidity.
Plastic Accessories or Fixtures
Plastic soap dispensers, flimsy shower curtains, and thin toilet roll holders won't do your bathroom any favors. They crack, discolor, and instantly cheapen the look of the space. The same goes for plastic chrome or faux brass fixtures.
When it comes to cost and time, refinishing a bathtub is worth every penny, and the results can last up to 10-15 years with proper DIY care. Not only can a fiberglass tub be refinished but it could save you money in the long run.
Labor and plumbing are the most costly parts of a bathroom remodel. This is especially true in older homes. In these homes, plumbing and electrical work often need upgrades to meet current building codes. Strategic planning, cost-effective choices, and smart reuse of fixtures can help keep your overall cost manageable.
Refinishing method: The standard refinishing method involves stripping, sanding, caulking, and resealing your tub. This comes at an average cost. The modern Miracle Method can cost $500–$650 for a tub or $1,000–$1,200 for a tub and shower.