04.9 - tips for successful bathtub reglazing

Bathtub Refinishing 101: 7 Simple Tips for Tub Reglazing Success

The majority of homeowners choose tub reglazing over buying a new bathtub. Why? Because expert bathtub refinishing may make a tub seem as good as new. This method also enables your customers to preserve their tubs, avoiding the need to replace existing flooring, tiling, fixtures, and other features. Instead, the surrounding surfaces are covered and left alone while the repair is completed.

When refinishing a bathtub, there are various factors to consider. In the sections below, we’ll go through seven easy measures to make your next tub reglazing endeavor a big success.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before you begin your bathtub repair project, you must thoroughly organize your workspace. In addition to protecting all surrounding surfaces, you must take all necessary safety precautions. To keep the area well-ventilated, turn on the bathroom fan, open a window, and utilize an industrial fan to push the air outside.

Step 2: Remove Caulk

First, remove the overflow plate above the tub drain. Using a utility knife, cut the caulk where it meets the surround. When the caulk begins to lose, use a putty knife to pry it away gently. (Don’t worry if black marks appear during this technique; they may be removed afterward.)

Important: If the caulk you remove contains silicone, you must remove the residue using a silicone digester. If this is done, the tub reglazing job will be protected.

Step 3: Clean the Bathtub Thoroughly

A tub must be cleaned entirely before refinishing. Scrub it with a scouring powder and pad first. A razor scraper may also be used to remove soap scum. Remember to clean the space under the soap dish, where debris is prone to build. Finally, since the drain is the most typical region where tub reglazing fails, could you pay particular attention to it?

Step 4: Repair Any Damage

When refinishing a bathtub, the surface must be smooth. Any chips, cracks, or other damage must be repaired before installation. Line the bottom of the tub with masking paper and use a putty knife to smooth out any flaws. Allow the filler to set completely before sanding. This procedure must be repeated until the desired outcome is reached.

Step 5: Sand the Tub

The surface has to be sanded when the tub has completely dried. With 120-grit sandpaper and an electric orbital sander, you may rub the surface by hand or mechanically. It would help if you utilized your respirator during this stage. To remove the, use a moist paper towel to dust and debris after sanding the whole tub. Wipe toward the tub’s back while avoiding the drain. Finish the work by using detailing compound or lacquer thinner.

Step 6: Apply Masking Tape

The next step is to cover the tub’s tile and surrounding floors with masking tape. Additionally, tape has to be applied on the drain (clip any excess so it doesn’t obscure the glass). Cover the faucet and showerhead with a rubber glove or other suitable barrier to prevent drips from damaging the tub reglazing process.

Step 7: Apply Tub Reglazing Product

After completing steps one through six, you are prepared to glaze the artwork. Because every bathtub refinishing product is unique, be cautious to read the directions in their entirety. The masking may be removed once the tub has dried for a few hours. But be careful to finish it early enough. If not, particles could fall and adhere to the tub’s surface. Repaint the bathtub with caulk after 24 hours have passed. You may finish the project by swapping out the overflow cover at the 48-hour mark.

Discover More About Professional Bathtub Refinishing

Wayne Tub Reglazing has all the necessary materials to hone your tub reglazing skills, such as bathtub refinishing courses. To learn more, please get in touch with us at any time.