Omar Khalid
Painting a plastic tub surround can be a cost-effective way to refresh the look of your bathroom. However, it can be challenging to get paint to adhere to smooth and non-porous plastic surfaces. Some products on the market, such as specialty paint kits and primers, claim to offer a solution, but results may vary, and the cleaning process can be tedious. In this discussion, we will explore the options available for those looking to paint their plastic tub surrounds, including the potential challenges and alternatives to consider.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint Adherence | Plastic is smooth and non-porous, so most paints won't adhere to it |
| Paint Type | Spray can bonding primer and semi-gloss white paint |
| Paint Kit | Rustoleum tub & tile paint kit |
| Surface Preparation | Sanding or treating the plastic surface to accept paint |
| Sealer | A sealer may be required over the new finish |
| Surface Cleaning | Thorough cleaning is required to avoid fisheye |
| Alternative Options | Retrobrite, Resolve or Oxi-all color-safe bleaching powder |
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What You'll Learn
Use outdoor paint
Painting a plastic tub surround can be an easy way to cover up old stains and give your bathroom a new look. To paint a plastic tub surround, you can use outdoor paint, specifically epoxy paint, which is ideal for wet environments. Epoxy paint is highly durable and will be able to withstand the constant stream of hot water from the shower.
Before painting, ensure that you have the correct safety gear, including a face mask and gloves, to protect your skin and respiratory system. It is also important to lay down newspaper or another covering to protect your floor from paint drips. Additionally, cover your taps and plug holes with masking tape to prevent them from getting painted.
The first step is to give your tub surround a deep clean using your usual bathroom cleaner and an abrasive sponge. This will ensure that the surface is free of any dirt, oils, or soap residue. After cleaning, sand the tub surround with fine sandpaper. Sanding will create a rough surface for the paint to grip onto, improving the adhesion of the paint. Be sure to wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grit and ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
Once the surface is prepared, you can apply the epoxy paint. Use a small roller or a spray can for better adhesion and a smoother finish. Apply the paint in thin, even layers, allowing adequate drying time between coats as per the manufacturer's instructions. You may need to apply multiple coats to achieve the desired coverage and finish.
Finally, consider applying a layer of acrylic topcoat to seal in the paint and add extra shine. This step is optional but will enhance the durability and appearance of your freshly painted tub surround.
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Sand the plastic
Painting a plastic tub surround requires a few steps to ensure the paint adheres to the surface and does not chip off. Sanding the plastic is an essential step in this process. Here is a detailed guide on how to sand the plastic tub surround:
First, it is important to understand why sanding is necessary. Plastic surfaces are typically glossy, smooth, and non-porous. This glossy finish needs to be scuffed up to create a rougher, matte surface to which paint can adhere. Sanding the plastic will create this necessary texture for the paint to stick to.
Next, choose the right sandpaper for the job. A fine-grit sandpaper is recommended for sanding plastic. Specifically, sandpaper with a grit between 180 and 220 is ideal. Using a higher-grit sandpaper can create deeper scratches and gouges in the plastic, so it is best to stick to the finer grit.
Now, you are ready to begin sanding. Start by lightly sanding the entire surface of the plastic tub surround. Use gentle movements and avoid applying too much pressure. The goal is to create a uniform matte finish across the entire surface, so be sure to sand evenly and consistently. Keep in mind that too much friction or heat can degrade the plastic, so take your time and work in small sections if needed.
Once you have achieved a consistent matte finish, wipe down the surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residual plastic dust. You can also use a vacuum to ensure all the dust is removed. It is important to remove this dust before painting to ensure a smooth finish.
Finally, if you are concerned about the durability of your paint job, consider using a primer. While sanding creates a better surface for the paint to adhere to, a primer will further enhance this and create a stronger bond between the paint and the plastic. Choose a suitable primer for plastic surfaces and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Use a bonding primer
Painting a plastic tub surround can be a challenging task due to the difficulty of getting paint to adhere to the surface. One crucial step to ensure the paint adheres properly and the colour lasts is to use a bonding primer.
A bonding primer is designed to provide a strong adhesion layer between the plastic surface and the paint, improving the durability of the paint job. It is important to select a primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces, such as the Tub Cast primer, which can be purchased from Amazon. This primer is suitable for a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, plastic, acrylic, and tile.
Before applying the primer, it is essential to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or residue. This can be done using a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Once the surface is prepared, you can begin applying the bonding primer. It is recommended to wear protective gloves and ensure the area is well-ventilated during the application process. Apply the primer evenly and smoothly across the entire surface, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. It is important to ensure that the primer is completely dry before moving on to the next step, which is usually painting.
After the primer has dried, you can begin the painting process. Choose a paint that is suitable for use on plastic surfaces and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. It is generally recommended to use multiple thin coats of paint, allowing adequate drying time between each coat, to achieve the best results.
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Apply a waterproof top coat
To apply a waterproof top coat to a plastic tub surround, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, ensure that the plastic surface is properly prepared. Plastic is smooth and non-porous, so it needs to be sanded or treated to accept a new finish or paint. You can use a product like Xim vinyl primer if the plastic is made from PVC. Alternatively, you could use a spray can bonding primer and apply extra bonding primer to any spots that need it.
Once the surface is prepared, you can apply the waterproof top coat. Choose a highly waterproof product that is designed for use on plastic and in wet environments, such as a specialist tub and tile paint kit. Apply at least two coats of the paint, following the manufacturer's instructions for drying times between coats.
It is important to note that even with proper preparation and the use of a waterproof top coat, the paint may not bond to the plastic for long, especially if the shower is used daily and exposed to hot water. In this case, a professional refinishing service may be a better option for a more durable and long-lasting finish.
Additionally, keep the room well-ventilated before, during, and after the painting process to ensure your safety and comfort.
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Try a tub and tile paint kit
If you're looking for a way to paint a plastic tub surround, a tub and tile paint kit could be a good option. These kits are designed to provide a durable and long-lasting finish on a variety of surfaces, including plastic. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a tub and tile paint kit to paint your plastic tub surround:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Start by cleaning the plastic surface of your tub surround thoroughly. Ensure that it is free of any dirt, grease, or soap scum. You may need to use a degreaser or a mild abrasive to get rid of any stubborn stains or residues. Rinse the surface with clean water and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Sanding
Lightly sand the surface of the plastic tub surround to create a rough texture that will help the paint adhere better. You can use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block for this step. Sand in the direction of the grain, if applicable, to ensure an even finish. Wipe away any dust or debris with a tack cloth or a damp cloth after sanding.
Step 3: Priming
Apply a suitable primer to the sanded surface. There are specific primers available for plastic surfaces, such as an epoxy primer or a bonding primer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, as different primers may have varying drying times and application methods. Ensure that you wear the appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and a respirator, during this step.
Step 4: Painting
Once the primer has dried, you can start applying the paint. Use a paint roller, brush, or spray kit, depending on the product you've chosen. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the number of coats required and the drying time between coats. Typically, two to four coats of paint are needed for full coverage.
Step 5: Final Curing
Allow the paint to dry completely, which may take up to 24 hours. After that, let it cure for a few more days before exposing it to water. Refer to the product instructions for the exact curing time.
Tips:
- If you're having trouble getting paint to adhere to a very smooth tile surface, consider using a special tile treatment agent or sandpaper to remove the enamel before painting.
- To enhance the gloss of the tile paint and protect the base coat, you can use a floor coating kit after the paint has dried.
- Always ensure proper ventilation during the painting process.
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Frequently asked questions
Painting a plastic tub surround can be challenging since plastic is smooth and non-porous, so most paints won't adhere to it. However, you can try using a spray can bonding primer and a semi-gloss top coat of paint.
If the plastic tub is made from PVC, you can use a Xim vinyl primer.
You should use a highly waterproof top coat.
You can try the Rustoleum tub & tile kit, which comes in a spray or brush application. Another option is the Tub and Tile Paint Kit from Home Depot, which requires two coats.
The plastic surface needs to be sanded or treated to accept paint. The tub/shower should also be thoroughly cleaned multiple times to avoid fisheye.
