Does your bathtub look like a left-over remnant from the 1970s? Does it look dirty, even when you scrub it until your back hurts? If either of these is true, you can bring it back to life with a bathtub refinishing kit. Here is what you’ll need to do:
Clean Thoroughly: This if the first step. Remove all loose caulking and gaskets and any other “debris” you can.
Apply First Chemical Cleaner: Most bathtub refinishing kits come with a few chemicals; a few for cleaning. Apply the first chemical cleaner, scrubbing with sandpaper. This removes all soaps and oils, which prepares the tub for the primer to be added later.
Apply Second Chemical Cleaner: This cleaner scores the tub. What is scoring? It roughens up the surface, removing any remaining oils. It also further prepares the surface for the primer.
Apply Primer Reducer: This chemical removes all remaining deposits in the tub. This can be applied with heavy duty paper towels. After the primer reducer has been applied, then it’s time to make any repairs to the tub’s surface.
Drain the applicable area(s) with putty and let it dry for about half an hour. Then, sand the repaired areas with sandpaper (a fine-grit grain is preferable).
Clean Again: Clean the repaired area again with the primer reducer and let it dry.
Mask Unfinished Area: Mask the area around the tub that’s not being refinished.
Apply Base & Top Coats: Following the directions that come with the bathtub refinishing kit, mix the primer’s components and apply to the tub using a spray gun. Let dry for half an hour, then apply the top coat (mixed following the manufacturer’s instructions as well).
Use a spray gun to apply the top coat, using long, even strokes. Note: This will take 2-3 days to completely cure.
Bathtub Refinishing Tip: Ventilate the area well as most bathtub refinishing projects require the use of chemicals. Also, protect hands and face by using masks and gloves.
If this project seems like more than you want to take on, don’t hesitate to give your local bathroom remodeling contractor a call to take care of it for you. This way, you can get the results you want without having to do the work.
