How to Refinish a Bathtub

Refinishing your bathtub can can modernize an old fashioned tub or give your bathroom a fresh look. To complete your refinishing project, follow these steps.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• Tape
• Paper
• Spray gun
• Primer
• Caulk
• Mask
• Chemical cleaners

1. Cleanse the entire surface of your bathtub with the chemical cleaners. Remove old caulking and any rusted areas. Make any necessary repairs beforehand and allow everything to dry.

2. Sand the entire bathtub to remove old paint and film. Wipe the entire bathtub clean and allow it to dry completely.

3. Cover the fixtures using paper and tape, especially the drain area. Remove any excess tape. Keep the area properly ventilated and wear your mask.

4. Spray on the bonding agent. Start the drain, using an even back-and-forth motion until you cover the entire bathtub. Allow the tub to dry for 5 to 10 minutes. Apply the primer over the entire bathtub and allow it to dry for 30 minutes.

5. Apply the refinishing paint, using short back-and-forth strokes. Apply light coats and wait 5 minutes between coatings to give your bathtub a polished look.

6. Remove tape and paper from bathtub. Wait 2 to 3 days to allow the coating to dry and harden. Once dry, apply new caulk.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to do a thorough sanding of the entire tub surface to promote bonding of refinishing coatings.

Resources

• Bathtub refinishing network