Alexei Volkov
Plastic bathtubs are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but even the sturdiest of materials can start to show signs of wear and tear over time. Scuff marks, staining, and discolouration can make an older plastic bathtub look dirty and uninviting. Replacing a bathtub can be expensive and time-consuming, but refinishing or reglazing your plastic tub can be a cost-effective way to give it a facelift. This involves repairing small cracks and holes, applying filler, sanding, glazing, and then buffing the bathtub. You can hire a professional to do this, or you can purchase a DIY kit to refinish your tub yourself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can plastic tubs be recoated? | Yes |
| Is it expensive? | No, it is significantly cheaper than replacing a tub. The average cost of a DIY kit is $100 to $200, and hiring a professional may cost between $330 to $630. |
| Is it time-consuming? | Yes, it may take a few days to complete the recoating process. |
| Can the colour be changed? | Yes, although 89% of people choose white, around 8% choose beige and 3% prefer grey. |
| What is the process? | The surface must be cleaned, then a bonding agent is applied to ensure the new finish adheres to the old surface. Then, several layers of paint or acrylic enamel are applied. Finally, a topcoat is added to ensure durability and keep the colour looking fresh. |
| Can it be done at home? | Yes, but it is recommended to hire a professional for a longer-lasting finish. |
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What You'll Learn
Refinishing a plastic tub
Plastic bathtubs are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but even the sturdiest of materials can start to look old and worn out over time. Scuff marks and staining can lead an older plastic bathtub to look dirty and uninviting, and no amount of cleaning can improve the situation. When this happens, it can be tempting to simply replace your whole plastic tub, but this is expensive and time-consuming. Luckily, you can refinish your older plastic tub at home. This can be an ideal way to conceal wear and tear and cover old stains.
Before you begin your refinishing project, ensure that your tub is as clean as possible. Use a sponge and a bath cleaning product to remove any traces of grease or grime. The next step is to sand down your plastic bathtub, as this will roughen up the surface and give your new finish something to grip onto, helping it to adhere better and last longer. After sanding, wipe down your tub to remove any traces of the sanded surface, then dry thoroughly and allow extra time for the moisture to evaporate. Any water left in the tub could prevent the new finish from adhering properly.
The final stage of prep work is applying a specific bonding agent to prime your tub. This will ensure proper adhesion with your new finish, and it gives a smoother surface to help your paint look more even. You must take adequate safety precautions before refinishing a plastic bathtub to protect both yourself and your bathroom from any potential mishaps. Wear gloves and a face mask during the entire refinishing process. You'll also want to ensure that the rest of your bathroom is protected. Lay down a floor covering in case of spills and use construction tape to cover up any areas of your bath that you don't want to paint.
Once you have your tub fully prepped and have chosen your paint, you can begin refinishing your tub. Acrylic enamel is the best material for refinishing plastic tubs and can be applied with a spray bottle or a classic paint can. Spraying may give a more even finish, but it is also more expensive and prone to accidents. You can achieve an even finish using paint and a roller, though it can be more time-consuming. Apply an even layer of paint to the entirety of your plastic tub and leave it to dry. Once it has dried, you can see whether it may benefit from a second layer. Once you're happy with the coverage, finish with a polyurethane topcoat. This will ensure your bathtub is more durable and keep your paint colour looking fresher for longer.
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DIY vs. professional refinishing
Refinishing your plastic tub can be a great way to conceal wear and tear and cover old stains. While it is possible to refinish a plastic tub yourself, there are several factors to consider when deciding between a DIY approach and hiring a professional.
DIY Refinishing
The DIY approach can be a cost-effective option, with kits available for around $100. These kits typically include the necessary materials, such as epoxies, putties, or enamels, as well as application tools like brushes, sprayers, rollers, and sandpaper. However, it's important to note that the process can be messy and time-consuming. It involves several steps, including cleaning and sanding the tub multiple times, which can be strenuous work. Additionally, the limited supplies in the kits may not be sufficient to achieve a high-quality, long-lasting finish.
Professional Refinishing
Hiring a professional refinisher can offer several advantages. Firstly, professionals have the expertise and experience to ensure a top-notch quality finish. They will also have access to professional-grade products, such as high-quality topcoats that provide increased durability, shine, and resistance to humidity and chemicals. Professionals will also handle the extensive surface preparation process, including caulk removal, masking the work area, and repairing any rust or chips. Additionally, they will ensure a thorough clean-up after the job is completed. While the cost of hiring a professional can vary, it typically ranges from $600 to $900, depending on the specifics of the project.
Factors to Consider
When deciding between DIY and professional refinishing, consider your budget, the desired quality of the finish, and the time and effort you are willing to invest. If you plan to remodel your bathroom or replace your tub in the near future, a simple DIY refinishing job may suffice. However, if you're looking for a long-lasting, high-quality finish and don't mind the additional cost, hiring a professional is the way to go.
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Different types of topcoats
Yes, it is possible to recoat plastic tubs. The process involves refinishing and repairing the tub, which can help to conceal wear and tear, cover old stains, and restore the tub's original beauty. This process is similar to that of refinishing porcelain and fiberglass bathtubs, but with some key differences. Firstly, the surface of a plastic tub must be chemically cleaned to remove any soap scum, mineral deposits, or body oils, and it does not require an acid wash. Then, all cracks and chips are filled and sanded smooth. A bonding agent is applied to ensure proper adhesion of the new finish to the old surface, and then the tub is ready for recoating.
There are several types of topcoats that can be used to recoat a plastic tub, each with its own unique properties and advantages:
Polyurethane Topcoats
Polyurethane topcoats are commonly used to provide a durable and long-lasting finish to plastic tubs. They help to protect the underlying paint, keeping it looking fresher for longer. Polyurethane is known for its ability to withstand wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as bathtubs. It creates a smooth and even surface, enhancing the overall appearance of the tub.
Epoxy Topcoats
Epoxy topcoats are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to various chemicals and humidity. They form a hard, crystallized coating that protects the surface of the tub from shampoos, soaps, and other bathroom products. Epoxy is often used in combination with other topcoats, such as polyurethane or acrylic polymers, to enhance the overall performance and aesthetics of the finish.
Acrylic Polymer Topcoats
Acrylic polymers are another popular choice for recoating plastic tubs. They offer excellent gloss and depth, enhancing the beauty of the tub. Acrylic polymers are known for their ability to resist yellowing and discoloration over time, maintaining a fresh and bright appearance. They also provide a durable and long-lasting finish, similar to that of epoxy and polyurethane topcoats.
Enamel Topcoats
Enamel topcoats, such as acrylic enamel, are commonly used to restore the original beauty of bathtubs. They provide a smooth and glossy finish, concealing any imperfections on the surface of the tub. Enamel topcoats are known for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches, making them a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution.
It is important to note that the choice of topcoat depends on various factors, including the specific type of plastic tub, the desired level of durability and aesthetics, and the expertise of the technician performing the recoating process.
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Preparing the surface
The next step is to sand the tub. Sanding helps to even out any larger cracks or scuffs and creates a rough surface for the new finish to adhere to. Fine sandpaper or #400 or #600 wet/dry sandpaper can be used. After sanding, the tub should be wiped down to remove any traces of the sanded surface.
Following this, it is important to fill in any remaining cracks, chips, or dings. Epoxy putty, which is often included in DIY bathtub refinishing kits, can be used for this purpose. Once the filler has dried, the surface should be sanded smooth.
The final stage of surface preparation is to apply a bonding agent to prime the tub. This will ensure proper adhesion with the new finish and give a smoother surface for a more even paint application.
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The cost of refinishing
Refinishing a plastic tub can be a great way to extend its lifespan and save money compared to buying a new one. The cost of refinishing a tub varies depending on several factors, including the tub's material, size, location, condition, and the refinishing method chosen.
The average cost of refinishing a bathtub is around $480, with most homeowners spending between $300 and $650. However, the price can go up to $1,000 for larger tubs or those with extensive damage. The materials for refinishing can cost between $30 and $150, while labor costs can add an additional $200 to $500 to the total.
For example, resurfacing materials for a porcelain or cast-iron tub typically cost $350 to $600, while fiberglass can cost $300 to $1,000. Adding enamel to a tub can cost an additional $350 to $600. The bigger the tub, the higher the cost of refinishing, as more materials and labor are required.
The condition of the tub also affects the cost. A tub with extensive corrosion, peeling, or damage may require more time and labor for sandblasting or other repairs, increasing the overall cost.
It is important to consider the refinishing method as well. The standard method involves stripping, sanding, caulking, and resealing the tub. Other methods, such as reglazing or using a liner, can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 for minor issues to $2,700 to $10,200 for serious, beyond-repair damage.
Plastic tubs can be refinished, but it is important to choose the right products and follow the proper steps to ensure a successful outcome. While it may be tempting to replace a worn-out plastic tub, refinishing it can be a more cost-effective solution, saving you thousands of dollars compared to the cost of a new tub.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can recoat your plastic tub yourself. You can buy DIY tub recoating kits for around $100 to $200. However, it is important to prep the surface properly and apply the sprays evenly.
First, the surface must be cleaned to remove any grease, grime, soap scum, or mineral deposits. Next, all cracks and chips are filled and sanded smooth. Then, a bonding agent is applied to ensure that the new finish adheres to the old surface. After this, you can apply an even layer of paint to the entire tub and leave it to dry. Once dry, you can assess whether it needs a second layer. Finally, finish with a topcoat, such as polyurethane, to ensure durability and keep the paint colour looking fresh.
The average cost of a DIY bathtub recoating kit is $100 to $200. Hiring a professional for the project will cost between $330 to $630.
Recoating a plastic tub is a great way to conceal wear and tear, cover old staining, and change the colour of your tub. It is also significantly cheaper than replacing a tub, which can cost around $6,000.
