Omar Khalid
Refinishing a plastic bathtub is a great way to give your bathtub a facelift without breaking the bank. The process involves repairing any cracks or chips, sanding the surface smooth, applying a bonding agent, and then painting on a new finish. You can do it yourself with a kit, or hire a professional for a more durable and longer-lasting finish. In this article, we will take you through the steps of refinishing your plastic bathtub, so you can decide whether to do it yourself or call in the experts.
How to Refinish a Plastic Bathtub
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Clean the surface chemically to remove soap scum, mineral deposits, or body oils |
| Step 2 | Fill all cracks and chips, then sand the surface smooth |
| Step 3 | Apply a bonding agent to ensure the new finish adheres to the old surface |
| Step 4 | Apply several layers of acrylic enamel to restore the original beauty of the tub |
| Step 5 | Buff and polish the cured surface to deepen the gloss |
| Cost | $100-$200 for DIY kits, $330-$630 for hiring a professional |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the bathtub
Cleaning the bathtub is the first step in refinishing a plastic bathtub. It is important to clean the tub thoroughly and remove all dirt, soap scum, mineral deposits, body oils, and caulking from the joints around the tub. This can be done using a putty knife to clean the bathtub openings and a cleaning solution or non-abrasive cleaner for the rest of the tub. Ensure that you wear breathing protection, as recommended by the manufacturer, and improve ventilation in the space by opening windows and turning on the exhaust fan or a box fan. You should also remove any escutcheons and cover plates from plumbing fixtures, and temporarily unscrew and remove bathtub spouts during the cleaning process. Once the tub is clean, it is important to seal the tub's joints with fresh silicone caulk and let it cure overnight before proceeding with the next steps of the refinishing process.
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Repair cracks and chips
Repairing cracks and chips in a plastic bathtub is a straightforward process, but it requires some care and attention to detail. The first step is to clean the surface to be repaired thoroughly. Wash away any soap scum and residue with an abrasive cleaner, then sand the area and clean it again with cotton swabs and rubbing alcohol to ensure no grime remains.
Next, you'll need to choose the right filler for the job. Professionals will match the filler to the bathtub's material and the nature of the crack for optimal results. You can buy two-component epoxy repair kits for this purpose, which come in various shades of white and cream to match common bathroom fixtures. Mix the two components together in a mixing tray with a small stick, then use a small spatula or similar tool to smooth the mixed epoxy into the crack or chip. Be careful to add the epoxy in thin layers, as it's easier to add more than to remove excess. Once you've filled the damaged area, let it dry for the length of time recommended by the manufacturer.
After the filler has dried, it's time to sand the area to remove any unevenness and ensure the repaired area is flush with the rest of the bathtub. This step requires some skill and patience to get right. Finally, polish the tub to give it a rejuvenated appearance and make it shine like new.
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Sand the surface
Sanding the surface of a plastic bathtub is an important step in the refinishing process. It helps to create a smooth base for the new finish to adhere to and ensures a uniform appearance. Here's a step-by-step guide to sanding the surface of your plastic bathtub:
Start by assessing the condition of the bathtub surface. Look for any cracks, chips, or uneven areas that need to be addressed. If there are visible imperfections, use a putty knife to fill them with an appropriate filler or bonding agent. Allow the filler to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once the filler is dry, it's time to begin sanding. Wear protective gear, including a respirator and safety goggles, as the sanding process can create dust and debris. Use a sanding block or sandpaper with a fine grit, such as 220-grit or higher. Start sanding the filled areas gently, working in the direction of the scratches or cracks. Avoid applying too much pressure, as you don't want to create new scratches or damage the surface further.
Slowly and steadily, work your way across the entire bathtub surface. Keep the pressure light and even, and use smooth, consistent strokes. Sanding the surface will create a uniform texture that will help the new finish adhere properly. Pay extra attention to areas that were repaired or filled, ensuring that the transitions between the filled areas and the original surface are seamless.
After sanding, wipe down the bathtub surface with a tack cloth or a damp cloth to remove any residual dust. Inspect the surface closely to ensure that it feels smooth and consistent to the touch. If there are any noticeable imperfections or rough patches, repeat the sanding process as needed until you achieve the desired smoothness.
Finally, once you're satisfied with the smoothness of the surface, vacuum the area to remove any remaining dust particles. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down the surrounding areas to ensure a clean environment for the next steps in the refinishing process. Remember to dispose of the sanding dust responsibly, following any specific guidelines for plastic dust disposal in your area.
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Apply primer and coating
Before applying a primer and coating, ensure the work area is well-ventilated by opening windows and turning on exhaust fans. It is also important to wear breathing protection, such as a respirator, to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.
Once the area is prepared, you can begin the process of applying the primer and coating. Start by cleaning the bathtub with a manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution to remove any dirt, soap scum, mineral deposits, or body oils. You may need to use a putty knife to remove any stubborn dirt or caulk residue. After cleaning, repair any small cracks, holes, or chips with an appropriate filler and sand the entire surface smooth.
Next, apply a thin, even coat of primer to the bathtub. Use a brush or roller, depending on the size of the area you are covering and the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Finally, apply the coating. Bathtub refinishing kits typically include an epoxy coating that comes in white or a few other basic colours. Mix the epoxy resin with the hardener as instructed, and apply it to the bathtub using a brush or roller. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times and application techniques.
Some coatings may require multiple coats for the best results. After the final coat has been applied, allow it to cure for at least 24 hours before using the bathtub.
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Seal with caulk
Sealing your bathtub with caulk is an important step in refinishing your plastic bathtub. Not only does a good seal look better, but it also prevents water and moisture from seeping into your walls, which can lead to mould, mildew, and rot.
Preparing the Bathtub
Before you apply the caulk, you must prepare the bathtub. If there is any existing caulk, it is important to remove it. Use a plastic razor blade scraper to remove the old caulk with quick strokes, keeping the blade flush against the old caulk. Wipe down the area with a cloth and denatured alcohol to ensure a good seal. You should also clean the area with a 1:4 solution of bleach and water to remove any mould or mildew, making sure your workspace is well-ventilated and you are wearing protective gloves.
Applying the Caulk
When applying the caulk, it is critical to pick the right sealant. For sealing a bathtub, you should use a 100% silicone sealant, which is 100% waterproof, permanently flexible, and will provide a watertight seal. Cut the nozzle of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle, with an opening of about 3/16 inch in diameter. Pierce the inner seal of the tube with the wire tool on the caulk gun and load the tube into the gun. Apply painter's tape parallel to the seam that requires caulking to ensure a clean, straight line. Hold the caulk gun at a 45-degree angle to the joint and apply steady pressure to the trigger while moving the gun smoothly along the seam.
Smoothing the Caulk
Using a damp lint-free rag or paper towel, run your finger along the caulk bead, applying gentle pressure and moving in one continuous motion to shape the caulk. Do not use your finger to smooth the caulk, as this will create a concave shape that will stay wet longer or allow water to accumulate. Instead, use an applicator tool to press the caulk into the seam, creating a straight finish with a gradient of approximately 45 degrees.
Final Steps
Remove the tape before the caulk dries and clean off any excess caulk. Allow the sealant to cure completely for the best performance. After at least 48 hours, your seal will be fully set and can protect the seam from water.
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Frequently asked questions
The process involves cleaning the surface, filling in cracks and chips, sanding, applying a bonding agent, and then painting several layers of acrylic enamel.
You can purchase a DIY bathtub refinishing kit that includes epoxy resin with hardener, etching powder, latex gloves, steel wool, a brush, cleaning solution, cleaner or thinner, and safety goggles.
The average cost of a do-it-yourself bathtub refinishing kit is $100 to $200, and hiring a professional for the project may cost between $330 to $630.
The lifespan of a refinished bathtub is typically five to ten years or possibly longer, depending on use, care, and maintenance.
Bathtub refinishing kits emit toxic fumes, so ensure you have good ventilation in the room. It is recommended to wear breathing protection, such as a respirator, when sanding or applying the refinishing product.
