How to Enamel a Bathtub

If you have an old porcelain bathtub that is looking dull and discolored, you can make it look new by adding a new layer of enamel. This isn't simply a matter of painting the tub, because even a worn-out porcelain surface will not hold paint very well without some special preparation. Specialty glossing compound will de-gloss the surface so it will accept primer and enamel that is specifically made for renovating old porcelain surfaces.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Masking tape
• Plastic tarps
• Respirator, with face mask
• Rubber gloves
• Paintbrush
• Hydrofluoric acid-etching compound
• Airless paint sprayer
• Porcelain primer
• Porcelain enamel

Instructions

1. Take off the tub fixtures using your wrench. Tape plastic tarps around the floor and surrounding walls with masking tape.

2. Put on the rubber gloves and respirator.

3. Brush hydrofluoric acid over the porcelain of the tub with your paintbrush, putting it on in a thick layer. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse it off. Let the tub dry for 24 hours. The surface should be dull.

4. Fill the airless paint sprayer with porcelain primer. Coat the tub in a thin, smooth coat of primer.

5. Let the primer dry for four hours. Spray on a second coat of primer. Let it set for 12 hours.

6. Refill the paint sprayer with porcelain enamel. Spray over the tub in a thin, smooth coat.

7. Let the enamel dry completely for four to six hours. Apply a second layer coat of enamel in the same manner as the first. Let it dry. Apply a third layer. Continue for four to six layers until you achieve the desired look.

8. Allow the final coat to set for 48 hours. Reinstall the tub fixtures.

Tips & Warnings

• Hydrofluoric acid can cause serious burns if it comes in contact with your skin. Be very careful when using this chemical and dispose of unused acid following hazardous waste protocols.

References

• This Old House: Refinishing Porcelain Tubs