Ceramic tiles on painted drywall

This is one of those questions where there really is no exact answer. The adhesive will stick to the paint. But there is no way to determine the long-term results of a new tile finish over a painted surface. The paint can peel, break down or otherwise come loose from the substrate and the tiles may will also come loose.

A few things I take into consideration when tiling any area are:

1. Weight of tiles on the drywall - I personally will not go moe than 3 feet high on drywall with any tile. If more than 3 feet, replace drywall with cement board.

1. Wet areas - if tile is being installed in an area where water is frequent - I use backerboard with a waterproof membrane (Kerdi system is great).

They will bond fine either with thinset or mastic if the paint is non-glossy. The bond will be as strong as is the attachment of the paint to the drywall.