Omar Khalid
Plastic bathtubs are durable, but they can become worn, scuffed, and discoloured over time. Replacing a bathtub can be expensive and time-consuming, so painting your plastic bathtub is a great way to refresh your bathroom on a budget. Painting a plastic bath can be a DIY project, but it will require the correct safety gear and some preparation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To cover up discolouration, scuff marks, and stains |
| Benefits | An affordable way to refresh the look of your bathroom |
| Materials | Paint, primer, sandpaper, gloves, face mask, newspaper, masking tape, sponge, paintbrush, roller |
| Paint Types | Acrylic enamel, Intelligent Eggshell, Exterior Eggshell, Full Gloss |
| Paint Brands | Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Zinsser |
| Preparation | Clean the surface, sand the tub, apply primer, allow to dry |
| Application | Use a brush, roller, or spray to apply paint in even layers |
| Drying Time | Allow adequate time according to paint instructions, then apply a second layer if needed |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the surface
Clean the Surface: Start by giving the surface of your bath a thorough cleaning. Use a damp cloth or an abrasive sponge along with your usual bathroom cleaner to remove any dirt, dust, scuff marks, or stains. This step is important to ensure that the paint will adhere properly to the surface.
Sand the Surface: Once the bath is clean and dry, it's time to sand it. Use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire surface of the bath. This process will create a rough texture on the smooth plastic surface, providing a better grip for the paint to adhere to. Take your time with this step, as it is crucial for the paint's durability.
Remove Dust and Debris: After sanding, use a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner to remove any traces of dust or debris from the surface of the bath. It is important to ensure that the surface is completely clean and dry before proceeding to the next step.
Apply Primer: To ensure the paint adheres well and the colour stays true, it is recommended to use a specialist primer designed for plastic surfaces. Choose a primer that is compatible with your chosen paint type. Apply the primer with a paintbrush or roller, following the instructions on the product. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before moving on to painting.
Protect Surrounding Areas: Before you begin painting, protect the areas around the bath, such as the floor, taps, and plug holes. You can use newspaper or a drop cloth to cover the floor and masking tape to cover any fixtures. This will prevent accidental paint drips and spills.
Remember, proper preparation is key to achieving a professional-looking finish on your plastic bath. Take your time with each step and ensure the surface is clean, sanded, and primed correctly before moving on to the painting stage.
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Choosing the right primer
Painting a plastic bath can be an affordable way to refresh your bathroom. However, it is important to choose the right primer to ensure the paint adheres to the plastic surface.
Before selecting a primer, it is important to prepare the surface of the bath. Clean the bath with an abrasive sponge and your usual bathroom cleaner to remove any dirt, dust, or scuffs. If the bath has been previously painted, you will need to sand the original paint colour with fine sandpaper. This will create a rough surface for the primer to adhere to. It is also important to ensure the surface is completely dry before applying the primer.
When choosing a primer, look for a product that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Some primers to consider are Bullseye 1-2-3 primer by Zinsser, which is recommended for use on plastic, or a specialist primer recommended by paint manufacturers like Farrow & Ball. If you are using a dark paint colour, you may want to use a grey primer or a coloured primer designed to enhance the depth of dark paint colours.
It is also important to consider the application method of the primer. Primers can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray. While spray methods can give a more even finish, they tend to be more expensive and messy. Brushes and rollers are more affordable and can provide an even finish if you take your time during application.
Once you have chosen a primer, apply a thin layer to the outside surfaces of the bath, being careful not to paint inside the bath. Allow the primer to dry for at least four hours before applying your chosen paint colour.
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Painting techniques
Painting a plastic bath requires careful preparation and the right tools for the job. Firstly, it is important to clean the surface of the bath with an abrasive sponge and your usual bathroom cleaner to ensure the surface is free from dirt, dust, scuffs, and grime. It is also important to check if the bath has been previously painted. If it has, you will need to sand the bath with fine sandpaper to smooth out the original paint colour. If the bath has not been previously painted, you can skip this step, although some sources recommend sanding plastic baths to ensure the new paint has something to grip on to.
After sanding, the bath should be cleaned again with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining dust or debris. Once the bath is completely dry, it is time to apply a primer. Use a good-quality paintbrush to apply a thin layer of primer all over the outside surfaces of the bath. It is important to avoid painting inside the bath. Allow the primer to dry for at least four hours.
Once the primer is dry, you can begin applying your chosen paint colour. It is recommended to use acrylic enamel paint for plastic baths, which can be purchased in a typical tub or in a spray bottle. If using a tub of paint, a small roller tends to work better than a brush to achieve an even and streak-free finish. Take your time to apply the paint in one even layer to the entirety of the tub. Allow adequate drying time according to your paint's instructions, then apply a second layer if necessary.
Finally, you can finish the job with a layer of acrylic top coat to seal in your paint and add extra shine.
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Sealing the paint
Sanding and Cleaning:
Before you begin the sealing process, it is essential to prepare the surface of your bathtub. Start by sanding the entire bathtub surface with fine sandpaper or abrasive sponges. This step creates a rough texture, providing a good grip for the paint to adhere to. After sanding, thoroughly clean the bathtub to remove any dust, dirt, or grit. Use a damp cloth or a mild bathroom cleaner to ensure the surface is free of any residue.
Once the bathtub is clean and dry, it's time to apply the sealer. Select a suitable sealer designed specifically for use on painted plastic surfaces. You can find these sealers at most hardware stores or home improvement centres. Carefully read and follow the instructions on the sealer product you've chosen. Typically, you will use a paintbrush or roller to apply a thin, even coat of the sealer to the entire surface of the bathtub. Allow the first coat to dry completely, following the manufacturer's recommended drying time.
Applying Additional Coats:
Depending on the type of sealer you've chosen and the desired level of protection, you may need to apply multiple coats of sealer. After the first coat has dried, lightly sand the surface again with fine sandpaper. This step will help the next coat of sealer adhere better. Remove any sanding dust with a damp cloth, and then apply the second coat of sealer, just as you did the first. Repeat this process if you decide to apply additional coats, following the specific instructions on your sealer product.
Drying and Curing:
Once you have applied the final coat of sealer, allow ample time for the sealer to dry and cure completely. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying and curing time. Do not use the bathtub or expose it to water until the sealer has fully cured. This step is crucial in ensuring that the paint job is protected and will last for years to come.
Maintenance:
After sealing and fully curing your painted plastic bathtub, proper maintenance is essential. Clean your bathtub regularly with mild, non-abrasive cleaners and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that may damage the paint and sealer. With the right care, your newly painted and sealed bathtub will maintain its fresh appearance for a long time.
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Safety precautions
Painting a plastic bath can be a fun DIY project, but it's important to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Here are some detailed safety guidelines to follow when painting a plastic bath:
Prepare the Work Area:
Before starting the painting process, it's crucial to prepare the area to avoid any accidents or damage to your property. Lay down newspaper or plastic sheeting on the floor to catch any paint drips or spills. This will protect your floors from stains and make cleanup easier. Ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated by opening windows or using fans to maintain proper airflow during the painting process.
Wear Protective Gear:
Always wear protective gear when working with paints and chemicals. This includes wearing gloves to protect your skin from direct contact with the paint and chemicals, and a respirator or mask to prevent the inhalation of paint fumes and dust particles. Consider wearing safety goggles to shield your eyes from any splatters or debris.
Surface Preparation:
Before applying any paint, thoroughly clean the surface of the plastic bath to remove any dirt, dust, or scuffs. Use a damp cloth for this step, ensuring the surface is free of any residue. If the bath has been previously painted, use fine sandpaper to lightly sand the surface, creating a rough texture that will help the new paint adhere better. After sanding, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Primer and Paint Selection:
Choose a suitable primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Some primers may claim to not require sanding, but lightly sanding the surface beforehand can enhance the adhesion. Select a primer colour that is suitable for your chosen topcoat. For lighter paint colours, opt for a white primer, while a grey primer is more suitable for darker shades. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time between coats.
Paint Application:
When applying the paint, take care not to paint inside the bath. Only paint the outside surfaces, and for roll-top baths, paint up to the 'lip' but not over it. Use a good-quality paintbrush to achieve the best finish. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the chosen paint colour.
Drying and Curing:
Ensure that you allow ample time for the primer and paint to dry and cure properly between coats. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for recommended drying times. Proper drying and curing will help prevent any issues with adhesion, chipping, or scratching.
Post-Painting Care:
After completing the painting project, properly dispose of any leftover paint, primer, or paint thinners in accordance with local regulations. Clean your paintbrushes and any other tools used during the process, ensuring they are stored appropriately for future use.
Remember, taking these safety precautions will help ensure that your plastic bath painting project is completed safely and successfully.
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Frequently asked questions
First, check the surface of your bath for any dirt, dust or scuffs. Give the surface a quick clean with a damp cloth. If it has been previously painted, you will need to sand the original paint colour with fine sandpaper. Then, wash the bath with warm, soapy water.
You should use a specialist primer first. If the bath is to be painted in a dark colour, you can use a wood primer and undercoat on top of the specialist primer for colour depth. For the top coat, you can use either an exterior eggshell or full gloss paint.
You can use a brush, roller or spray. A spray will give the most even finish but it is more expensive and messy. Brushes and rollers are much more affordable, and if you take your time, they can offer an equally even finish.
Make sure to wear a face mask and a pair of gloves while painting to protect your skin and respiratory system. You should also lay down something to cover your floor in case of paint drips and cover your taps and plug holes with masking tape to keep them free of paint.
