What You’ll Need

• “Vertical Glass” – Thick Resin Decorative Wall Coating: Thick epoxy suitable for vertical surfaces, provides a waterproof finish ideal for bathroom tiles.
• “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm: Clear, odourless epoxy for transparent or decorative top layers if clarity is desired.
• “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm: Option for those needing a thicker clear layer or specific effects.
• “Art Pro” – Clear Epoxy Resin for Artists and Surface Coating: Best for artistic surface finishes or accent details.
• Protective gloves and goggles
• Mixing tools & containers (disposable recommended)
• Spatula or trowel
• Fine abrasive pad or sandpaper (if surface prep is needed)
• Cleaning supplies (detergent, cloth, isopropyl alcohol)
• Masking tape & dust sheets

Essential Tools and Prepping for Resin Application

Choose a resin designed for vertical surfaces to ensure adhesion and flow control—specialist wall resins resist sagging. Take time to thoroughly clean, sand, and dry your tiles before starting. Prepare your workspace by masking and covering all areas not to be coated.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tiles Thoroughly

Thoroughly clean and degrease the tile surface to ensure maximum adhesion. Remove soap scum, limescale, and stubborn residues using a suitable detergent, followed by a wipe down with isopropyl alcohol. Check for cracks or loose tiles and repair these issues before moving on. Give the tiles a light key with an abrasive pad or fine grit sandpaper for improved bonding, especially if they are glossy.

Ensure tiles are fully dry and dust-free; any moisture beneath the resin may cause failures. Remove all dust after sanding.

Step 2: Mask the Surrounding Areas

Carefully mask adjoining surfaces like bath edges, taps, and sockets using quality masking tape and cover floors or adjacent walls with dust sheets. Proper masking minimises accidental resin contact and ensures a crisp edge to your new surface.

Plan the working area so you have clear, uninterrupted access to all tile faces you intend to coat.

Step 3: Mix Resin Components Accurately

Measure and mix your chosen resin strictly according to the instructions. For most bathroom tile applications, “Vertical Glass” – Thick Resin Decorative Wall Coating is specially formulated for vertical surfaces, providing reliable waterproofing and easy, spatula-based application. Use a disposable mixing container and mix thoroughly to avoid streaks or unmixed patches.

Mix resin components precisely as even small errors can affect curing, clarity, and adhesion. Only prepare as much as you can apply within the product’s working period.

Step 4: Apply Resin in Even Layers

Transfer mixed resin in small batches to your working area. Apply resin methodically in small batches using a spatula, moving across the tiles in a consistent direction. Distribute the material evenly, aiming for your target thickness. Avoid overworking the surface and watch for drips or build-up at edges. For decorative effects, incorporate pigments into the resin before application or layer for artistic finishes. For a clear, glossy look, “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin can be used as a transparent topcoat over a prepared resin base.

Work with adequate ventilation and wear gloves/goggles throughout.

Step 5: Curing and Finishing Touches

Allow for correct curing time as specified by the product. Keep the area dust-free while curing. If needed, a final sanding with fine abrasive after the first cure can help achieve a satin finish—”Vertical Glass” is sandable after 48 hours. Remove masking tape carefully before the resin has fully hardened to achieve clean lines.

Hold off on heavy cleaning or water exposure until the resin has reached its full cure state to ensure maximum durability and waterproofing.

Tips, Common Mistakes, and Troubleshooting

Always measure resin hardener and base accurately for proper results. Maintain consistent room temperature and avoid excessive humidity. If you spot bubbles, pass a heat gun or torch briefly over the wet resin to help them rise and burst. Avoid thick pours on vertical tiles unless using a specialist wall coating such as “Vertical Glass”, as other resins may sag or drip.

Common errors include poor surface preparation, under-mixing, or applying too thick a layer. When in doubt, test on a small area first. Wear protective gear and ventilate well during application and curing to minimise discomfort.

Aftercare and Maintenance of Resin-Coated Tiles

Wipe your resin-coated tiles with non-abrasive cleaners for long-lasting shine. Inspect regularly for chips or scratches and perform any small repairs as needed to keep your bathroom protected and looking its best.