DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

Hi there

I’m doing by cloakroom bathroom myself and have just stripped all the tiles off the wall. I’m left with two walls brick in a pretty rubbish condition (flaky etc) and 2 walls plasterboard.

I’m looking to tile up to chest height and then paint above that. I’m looking for some guidance on how to prepare the walls for both applications. I considered plasterboarding everything but it’s a tight space so don’t want to make it smaller.

The door to the bathroom which I may need to remove because the frame is rubbish is on the wall with plasterboard so could consider replacing to make life easier.

Thoughts welcome!

Preparing the walls for tiling and painting in your cloakroom bathroom can be done with a few steps. Here's a general guide to help you with the process:

Repairing the Brick Walls:

Start by removing any loose or flaky paint, plaster, or debris from the brick walls using a wire brush or scraper.
Fill in any cracks or holes in the brickwork with a suitable filler or mortar. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
If the brick walls are extremely rough or uneven, you can consider applying a layer of adhesive-backed mesh tape or a coat of a suitable wall primer to create a smoother surface. Sanding the surface lightly can also help.

Preparing the Plasterboard Walls:

Check the condition of the plasterboard walls. If there are any damaged areas or holes, repair them using joint compound or filler. Sand the repaired areas until smooth.
Clean the plasterboard walls to remove any dust or grease using a mild detergent and water solution. Rinse with clean water and let it dry thoroughly.

Tiling Preparation:

Ensure that the walls are clean and free from any loose debris or dust.
Apply a suitable primer or sealer on both the brick and plasterboard walls to create a better bonding surface for the tile adhesive. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.

Tiling Process:

Measure and mark the desired height for tiling on the walls. Use a level or spirit level to ensure your markings are straight and level.
Apply a high-quality tile adhesive to the walls using a notched trowel, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Place the tiles on the adhesive, pressing them firmly into place and ensuring they are level. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent spacing between the tiles.

Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer's recommended drying time.

Once the tiles are firmly set, grout the gaps between the tiles using a grout float. Clean off any excess grout with a damp sponge.
Allow the grout to cure as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Painting Preparation:

Before painting, ensure that the tiled area is clean and free from any grout residue or dust. Apply painter's tape to protect the edges of the tiled area and any fixtures or fittings you don't want to paint.
Prime the walls with a suitable primer to promote better adhesion of the paint and create a smooth surface.

Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint color to the walls above the tiled area, using a brush or roller. Apply multiple coats if necessary, allowing sufficient drying time between coats.
If you decide to replace the door frame, consider doing so before tiling and painting for easier access and a neater finish. Remember to follow safety precautions, use appropriate tools and materials, and consult relevant guides or professionals if you encounter specific challenges during the process.