{"id":1988,"date":"2020-12-07T16:48:18","date_gmt":"2020-12-07T15:48:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/durabath.ca\/?p=1988"},"modified":"2024-04-23T19:36:01","modified_gmt":"2024-04-23T15:36:01","slug":"bath-refinishing-what-you-should-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/durabath.ca\/en\/bath-refinishing-what-you-should-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Bath refinishing | What you should know"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

The bathroom is as important as any other room in your house and let\u2019s be honest, we can all agree that there is nothing quite like a relaxing bubble bath at the end of a long day. However, in order to enjoy it, you need a clean bathtub you actually want to relax in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

If your tub has seen better days, you might be considering buying a new one. <\/span>But what if you don\u2019t have the budget to replace it? <\/span><\/i>Whether you\u2019re dealing with minor rust spots or a bath that\u2019s lost its shine, bathtub refinishing is an alternative that can easily fit your budget. It\u2019s also a good way to recycle your old bath and help save the environment . In this article, we break down everything you should know about bathtub refinishing, one of the best alternatives to tub replacement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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What is bath refinishing?<\/span><\/h2>\r\n

Bath refinishing<\/b>, also known as bathtub reglazing, is the process of making an old bathtub look new without actually replacing it. It\u2019s a multi-step process that involves cleaning the tub thoroughly and sanding it to remove soap scum and other particles. It also involves repairing cracks, worn areas or any <\/span>imperfection<\/span> that could affect the quality and durability of the final <\/span>refinished<\/span> coat.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

Bath refinishing is considered the best alternative to tub replacement for people who want to remodel their bathroom without spending a fortune. When properly done with quality materials by a <\/span>professional refinisher<\/span><\/a> or by you, the result will be a durable tub with a like-new finish.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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How to refinish a bathtub<\/span><\/h2>\r\n

Although most people think it is best left to a trained contractor, it is also possible to refinish your bathtub yourself. You can find DIY bathtub refinishing kits available at many home improvement stores. <\/span>However, not all DIY resurfacing kits are created equal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

There are many products that provide mediocre results and that are less durable, which is a big reason why many homeowners search for tub reglazing professionals. Below is the process many professional refinishers follow using traditional spray methods.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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1. Bathtub surface preparation and cleaning<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

This is probably the most important step in the process. The tub needs to be given a thorough cleaning to remove years of oil, soap scum, silicone and mineral deposits. Pay special attention to the drain. It\u2019s important to clean the surface properly to maximize the durability and bond of your new finish. After rinsing the tub, re-inspect the tub and if you still see oil, soap or silicone then repeat the process.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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2. Etch Surface<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

Etching creates a surface that coatings will adhere to. Etching solutions contain acid so don\u2019t forget to use safety glasses, gloves and a mask. Use a sponge or paint brush to apply the etching solution to the entire surface of the bath. Leave the etch solution on the tub between 15 – 20 minutes. Then rinse the tub with warm water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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3. Sand Surface<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

Take an 80 grit waterproof sandpaper and sand the entire tub while it\u2019s still wet. This will help to scuff up the surface and to remove any residue from the etch solution. Thoroughly re-rinse with warm water. Dry the tub and surrounding area with paper towels and a hair dryer. Make sure it is completely dry before moving on to the next step.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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4. Fixed any chips or cracks<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

Your bathtub may be chipped, cracked, pitted, rusted or even burned so it\u2019s important to repair any damage. Use a putty knife or metal spatula and apply a polyester filler over the chips and any other defects in the tub. Let it dry for a few minutes and then gently sand off the excess and clean the area. Repeat if necessary on other areas that need repair. If you skip this step then you\u2019ll see imperfections in the finish where there was damage on the surface.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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5. Protect Bathroom\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

If you\u2019re spraying the paint on your bath there will be overspray. You don\u2019t want any of this on your walls, floors or fixtures. Start by masking and covering the surrounding walls, floor, sink, toilet and windows. You can put rags and blankets on cabinets and plumbing fixtures. There are other kits where you don\u2019t have to spray the product on so you won\u2019t need to protect the whole bathroom just the surrounding areas of the bath.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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6. Primer\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

Before painting the tub a primer needs to be applied. This will help the new paint to bond to the surface of the bath. Failure to apply the primer will cause the bath paint to peel or fail prematurely. Most professional reglazers apply a primer and there are some DIY Kits that require this. But there are also some kits where this is not required.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

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7. Prepare the paint<\/span><\/h3>\r\n

Most Professional resurfacing companies spray your bath with a spray gun, a compressor and paint that is specially formulated. It is similar to paint for automobiles. This paint is usually purchased through a specialty paint company. Proper mixture ratios are prepared and then put into a spray gun.<\/span><\/p>\r\n