Bathtub Refinishing Kits

Bathtub Reglazing | Bathtub Refinishing

Bathtub reglazing basically strips the old warn finish off the bathtub and puts on a new one. When done properly bathtub reglazing can, and usually does, last a very long time, unlike bathtub paint. If the goal of your bathtub refinishing project is to create a nice looking finish the will stand the test of time, then bathtub reglazing is the option for you.

The strength and durability of bathtub reglazing comes from its application process. Reglazing can involve up to a five step process: stripping the old finish, sanding the bathtub surface, cleaning the tub, applying a primer coat, and applying either an acrylic or urethane coating. There are many bathtub reglazing products available and the actual process for each step may vary from product to product. The important thing is to make sure you follow the manufactures instructions exactly.

The stripping step of the bathtub reglazing process typically requires the use of some sort of solvent. Many times this will be a type of acid or other strong chemical. The solvent can be rubbed on or, in some cases, sprayed or brushed on. Because of the strength of these chemicals it is very important that you follow the manufactures instructions and take all the suggested safety precautions. The point of this process is to remove (or strip) the old finish off of the bathtub so you have a nice base to start with. It is important to have a good base in order for the bonding process required for bathtub reglazing to occur and for your bathtub refinishing project to be a success.

After stripping the old finish off of the bathtub the next step is often (but not always, depending on the actual product you are using) sanding the surface of the tub. The goal of this step is to get the surface of your bathtub smooth and even. Depending on conditions such as the initial condition of your bathtub and the stripping process used, this can be a very easy task only requiring some sandpaper and a little elbow grease or somewhat time consuming task that may require the use of an electric sander. What is important is that when you are done, the surface of the bathtub is both even and smooth.

The cleaning step is typically a very quick and straight forward part of bathtub reglazing. The goal of this step is just to make sure that there are no particles, such as dirt or dust from sanding, left on the surface of the bathtub that may ruin your final finish. That does NOT mean that this step can be skipped or that it is not important. The last thing you want is for all of the time and effort you put into your bathtub refinishing to go waste because some dust particles ruined your finish. This step typically involves simply wiping down the tub with an industrial cleaner and then rinsing it off. Once rinsed, the tub will need to be carefully wiped dry. Again, make sure to follow the instructions for your particular bathtub reglazing product.

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