Caulking Your Bathtub After Reglazing
During the first 7 to 10 days after reglazing, you should refrain from cleaning the bathtub. This is because the glaze has not yet hardened and should not be cleaned for 24 to 48 hours after application. Scrubbing and chemical cleaners can damage the bathtub finish. Once the drying time has passed, you can use soap or detergent.
(Searching in Google “FG Tub and Tile“? Contact us today!)
Caulk around rim
When you are thinking of reglazing your bathtub, you may be wondering whether you should caulk around the rim. After all, it’s a good idea to ensure that the new surface doesn’t have any imperfections. Fortunately, caulking doesn’t have to be difficult – it’s a fairly straightforward process.
Before you start reglazing, you should remove the old caulk from the bathtub. It’s also a good idea to remove the overflow plate and drain if you are an experienced DIYer. You can use a screwdriver to remove these.
Care instructions for newly refinished bathtub
Following a few simple care instructions can extend the life of your newly refinished bathtub. First, you should avoid using abrasive cleaners on the tub. This will damage the newly finished surface. You should also avoid using brushes or sponges on it. Also, never use power washing or steam cleaning on it.
The next step is to clean the bathtub regularly. If possible, use microfiber cloths or car cleaning mitts to clean out dirt and grime from the surface. You should also towel dry the bathtub to prevent the finish from becoming scratched.
Maintenance of a refinished bathtub
After you have refinished your bathtub, you must maintain it properly to keep it looking its best for years to come. You must avoid any form of moisture that might damage the refinished surface, and ensure that the bathtub is dry. If you notice bubbles or peeling, take it to a repair shop as soon as possible. Failure to follow the instructions could void your warranty. Also, do not soak the bathtub in water for at least 24 hours, and do not place heavy objects on it for 72 hours. It’s important to replace any caulk and hardware that were not replaced after the refinishing process.
You should also avoid leaving bottles of soap on the ledges of your bathtub. They tend to trap water and eat away at the glaze. Instead, use specially designed soap holders for your soaps. The same applies to shower mats, as they can also cause damage to your bathtub refinishing.
Chemicals used in tub stripping agents
One of the chemical ingredients in paint strippers and tub stripping agents is methylene chloride, which has been linked to at least 12 deaths in the past 12 years in the United States. Methylene chloride is an acutely toxic solvent that metabolizes carbon monoxide, which is extremely lethal in high doses. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, methylene chloride-based products can be deadly for factory workers and do-it-yourselfers.
The chemical is especially dangerous when used to strip bathtubs. The CDC recently issued a warning about the hazard posed by paint stripping products that contain methylene chloride. The toxic substance is found in dozens of do-it-yourself tub stripping products available at home improvement stores.
The typical time for tub refinishing
Refinishing a bathtub requires a few steps. First, you need to let the reglazed area cure for at least 24 hours. Once the time is up, the surface is ready for use. You must use extreme caution during this time to prevent any debris from ruining the new finish. This includes avoiding scrubbing or using any cleaning solutions while the surface is still wet.
Typically, bathtub refinishing takes about a day to complete. However, some exceptions may apply, such as if the bathroom has little ventilation or is hard to navigate. The labor involved can run between $200 and $500. The process of refinishing a bathtub is much easier if you’ve hired a professional. In addition, a professional will know how to work with the chemicals involved, and they’ll have the right gear and experience to protect your skin.