How To Repaint an Acrylic Bathtub

Primer and paint enable you to dramatically change your acrylic bathtub.

Acrylic bathtubs are widely available in a wide range of colors, but even a small repair could ruin the look of the entire tub. Purchasing a new tub to hide a repair or match new decor is unnecessarily expensive if the tub still functions. Repainting an acrylic bathtub is an affordable do-it-yourself project. With paint, you may change the color of your acrylic bathtub at will rather than shell out a lot of money to have a brand-new tub installed. Does this Spark an idea?

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Scrub brush
Cleaning agent
Putty knife
Clean cloth
Acetone
80-grit sandpaper
Stiff wire brush
Putty
Painter's tape
Acrylic primer
Acrylic spray paint

Instructions

- 1
  
  Clean your bathtub inside and out with a strong cleaning agent and scrub brush. Scrub heavily if needed to remove dirt; you needn't worry about damaging the tub's finish.
- 2
  
  Let the tub dry completely.
- 3
  
  Remove all caulk in and around the tub with a putty knife.
- 4
  
  Wipe the entire tub down with a clean cloth and acetone to remove soap scum.
- 5
  
  Sand the bathtub with 80-grit sandpaper to create an even, clean surface.
- 6
  
  Scrub all rust away with a stiff wire brush.
- 7
  
  Repair all nicks, grooves and damaged areas using putty or an acrylic repair kit.
- 8
  
  Cover fixtures with painter's tape to keep them free of paint.
- 9
  
  Spray a coat of acrylic spray paint primer on the bathtub, starting from the drain area and moving toward the back of the tub, and moving from the inside out. Let the paint dry thoroughly before proceeding.
- 10
  
  Spray acrylic paint in the color of your choice, using even strokes and keeping the can about 6 inches from your body.

Tips & Warnings

Many cleaning agents contain toxic substances. Wear gloves when using these chemicals to clean your tub.
Airborne spray paint and other debris pose a danger to your eyes. Wear safety glasses or goggles while you work.
Paint fumes are hazardous. Keep the room well ventilated while you work, and step out frequently to get fresh air.

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