How to Resurface Your Bathtub?

If you’ve been wondering how to resurface your bathtub, you’re not alone. Thousands of people have done this and are happy with the results. However, before you start, you should know what to look for in a product, including durability, cost, and safety precautions. 

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Safety precautions 

When resurfacing a bathtub, you need to follow certain safety precautions. For example, you should use a mask and protective gear while working with the paint. The fumes from epoxy coatings and methylene chloride can be toxic if you breathe them in. It is also recommended that you sleep somewhere else during the refinishing process. 

First, make sure that you remove all debris from the bathtub. Then, clean it properly. You should also clean the tub thoroughly, including all tools and materials. If there is any debris left behind, it can ruin your bathtub’s new finish. Lastly, do not use the bathtub as a storage vessel for water. This can lead to rust, particularly around the drain and overflow. 

Cost 

Resurfacing a bathtub can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing it. However, you must be aware that the process is not as simple as it sounds, and can delay your bathroom renovation. It can also damage your floor and wall tiles. Furthermore, resurfacing a bathtub may require you to change the plumbing and transport it to a new location. This process may also require the assistance of a professional. 

Before starting the resurfacing process, you should prepare your bathroom. You can use an exhaust fan to vent the fumes outside. Moreover, you can also cover surfaces in your bathroom with heavy-duty plastic. Then, you can use a cleaning solution to remove the old finish. Once that is complete, you can use 240-grit sandpaper to remove oils from the surface. Once the surface is free of old finish, you can use scouring pads to roughen it up. This will help the new coating adhere better to the surface. 

Durability 

There are a few things you can do to ensure the durability of your bathtub resurfacing project. Preventing water damage is key. Keep the bathtub free of ledges, soap and shampoo bottles, and other things that can get between the surface of the bathtub and the coating. A hanging shower caddy can be an excellent choice for keeping your supplies out of the tub. 

After reglazing, you should expect the tub to last for about 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. It is a good idea to clean the tub regularly to prevent mold and moisture from destroying the new finish. 

Suction-cup mats 

Resurfacing bathtubs are harder to clean than the average fixture, but suction-cup mats can help. The suction-cup mats will help to remove dirt and soap scum, but if you use abrasive cleaners, they can damage the finish and shorten its lifespan. To avoid damaging your refinished bathtub, use only mild soaps that are safe for your refinished tub. 

Resurfacing a bathtub requires a certain amount of time for the reglazed surface to cure. It is recommended that you do not use suction-cup mats during the curing period. The suction-cup mats may scratch your newly reglazed bathtub’s finish and void its warranty.