How Soon Can You Return to the House After a Bathtub Reglazing?
If you have a bathtub that needs a fresh new look, you may consider a bathtub reglazing. It’s a cost-effective way to re-spark your tired bathroom. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll have to take care of it properly in order to make sure it lasts for a long time.
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You can either do it yourself or have a professional do it for you. While the latter is generally more expensive, it’s also more effective. Professionals use a specialized procedure that includes using acrylic products and applying a coat of polyurethane to the bathtub.
Once the process is done, you’ll have to wait a while before you can go back into your bathroom. It can take as long as a day or two for the coating to dry. But in some cases, it can take even longer, such as if your tub is coated with epoxy.
The drying process can be accelerated by using a fan. A good ventilation system is a must in your home, though. In addition, you’ll need to make sure you don’t blow any debris into the wet surface. After all, you don’t want to end up with an uneven finish.
Depending on the type of reglazing material used, fumes can be quite strong. For example, methylene chloride fumes can be quite toxic, and you may experience breathing difficulties if you’re around them for a long period of time. This is especially true if you are sensitive to fumes.
You’ll also have to be extra cautious while you’re in the tub. Not only is this dangerous for the coating, but it could damage the newly reglazed surface. Avoid putting suction cups on bathmats, and make sure you don’t stand in the tub for too long.
Bathtub reglazing is a great way to breathe new life into your old tub, but you’ll need to take the proper precautions to ensure the process is as safe as possible. Remember, reglazed surfaces can last for several years. Make sure you clean the tub weekly, so that moisture won’t deteriorate the paint.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the reglazed surface will be prone to nicks and cracks. If you don’t patch these areas, they’ll grow larger. Without a proper seal, you’ll end up with water damage to the walls and floors.
If you’re interested in a do-it-yourself approach, there are many do-it-yourself kits available at local hardware stores. These kits typically include epoxies, but they aren’t nearly as durable as professional materials. They are also less detail-oriented and can take longer to complete.
Unless you’re very familiar with the process, you’ll likely want to leave your home while your refinished surface is drying. This can be especially difficult if you have young children, but if you’re careful, you can be out of the house while the coating is still wet.
Taking the time to do your homework before you start the refinishing process is the best way to ensure your safety. Look for a company that’s been around for a while and has a track record of successful work. And check out the warranties they offer. Many contractors will give you a 3 to 10-year warranty.