Wall-mounted sink from the Duravit Starck 3 series

Covering tiles

A fresh new look with minimal effort

If you want to give your bathroom a fresh new look without breaking out the toolbox, you can use tile film instead. It makes it easy to cover existing tiles, and it’s both low-effort and affordable. Even better: if you end up not liking the new pattern, you can simply peel off the film or replace it with a more suitable one. Find out here how it works and what else there is to know about this stylish decorating wonder.

Key points at a glance:

Quick and easy renovations: With tile film, you can give your bathroom tiles a fresh new look with minimal effort, mess, or expense.

Flexible and versatile design: No matter what look you're going for, tile film offers a wide variety of designs and is particularly well-suited to custom projects.

The film is easy to remove: Since it can be removed without leaving any residue and lasts for several years with proper care, it is a very practical solution for everyday use—even in rental apartments.

Duravit D-Neo series countertop sink with blue tiles

Front view of a sink from the Duravit D-Code series with chrome faucet

What is tile film?

Tile film is a self-adhesive film specifically designed for covering individual tiles. Thanks to its water-repellent, wipeable, and in some cases heat-resistant properties, tile film is ideal for bathrooms. Anyone looking to cover the tiles in their bathroom can now choose from a wide variety of designs. For example, it’s possible to create the look of a marble bathroom or a bathroom with natural stone. Since the film can be removed from bathroom tiles without leaving any residue, it’s also a perfect solution for rental apartments.

Duravit D-Code series shower system in matte black

Which tiles are suitable for tile film?

In general, all tiles are suitable for tile film. The easiest way to find the right size is to use the standard dimensions of 15 x 15 or 20 x 20 cm. If you want to apply the film over old tiles, you should also make sure to repair any cracks or severely uneven surfaces beforehand. In addition, the finish must be smooth, clean, and free of grease so that the film adheres perfectly.

Step-by-step instructions

Tiling over existing tiles isn't complicated—and this brief explanation makes it even easier:

1. Clean

You should thoroughly clean, degrease, and dry the tiles you plan to cover.

2. Measure & cut (if necessary)

You can now cut the tile film to the appropriate tile size.

3. Positioning & Adhesive Application

Next, it’s time to apply the tile film. Ideally, start by positioning the film at a corner and then slowly continue applying it to ensure that the tile film is installed straight.

4. Smoothing

Using a squeegee or a soft cloth, you can now smooth out the tile film and remove any bulges or bubbles.

5. Secure the edges

Finally, if necessary, you can press the edges down firmly. To do this, you can gently warm the edges of the tile backing with a hair dryer and press them down. This will ensure they stay in place!

Care Tips

Tile film is relatively easy to maintain. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to clean it. However, you should avoid abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloths to prevent damage to the film. Depending on the quality of the tile film, it will last 3–6 years.

Design ideas

Covering the bathroom tiles with film quickly opens up a wide range of new design possibilities. For example, the following styles can be achieved using tile film:

A predominantly black bathroom featuring elements from the Duravit XViu series

Monochrome

For example, if you'd like to try out a black bathroom, you can quickly and easily transform it using tile film.

Vintage

Even in a vintage bathroom, using vinyl film to cover the tiles can help create the right atmosphere. Floral patterns or mosaics with a retro charm work particularly well here.

Scandinavian-style bathroom with a sink area and bathtub from Duravit's Luv series

Scandinavian Bathroom

Light colors and minimalist designs with clean lines perfectly complement any Scandinavian bathroom.

Duravit Balcoon sink area in earth tones

Mediterranean Bath

In aMediterranean-style bathroom, terracotta tones or light stone colors on the walls help bring that Mediterranean feel into your home. Individual colorful tile accents also look great.

Tiling Over Existing Tiles: Benefits at a Glance

In summary, tile film makes renovating a bathroom much easier. Here are the benefits at a glance:

Tall cabinet from the Duravit D-Neo series

Quick transformation

The bathroom can be completely remodeled in just a few hours.

Design variety

You can find the perfect tile film for any interior design style.

Duravit D-Code series chrome-plated sink faucet

Affordable

Tiling over existing tiles is a low-cost option—especially when compared to installing new tiles or a full renovation.

Dismantlable

Since the tile film can be removed without leaving any residue, this is a great way to get creative. Even renters can use it to customize their bathroom.

Wall-mounted toilet from the Duravit D-Code series

Easy to care for

A mild detergent and a soft cloth are all you need to keep the tile film looking neat and clean.

Barrier-free bathroom

Comfort in the bathroom is a top priority – and this should, of course, apply to everyone. A barrier-free bathroom makes this possible. But what needs to be considered when planning a barrier-free bathroom?

Plants for the bathroom

Plants in the bathroom are the perfect solution if you want the room to look particularly cozy.

How to remove bathroom mold

Mold is an unpopular, but unfortunately not infrequent, guest in the bathroom. You can learn more about how to remove and prevent mold in the bathroom below.