How to Refinish Bathtubs & Sinks
Having an out-of-date bathroom can detract greatly from the value of your home, while a remodeled bath adds significant value. Updating a bathroom, however, can be a very expensive undertaking. One solution is to refinish the bathtub or sink on your own. While it is not an easy job, it is a cost effective way to update your bathroom with a neutral color palette that will keep it relevant for years to come. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Eye protection Rubber gloves Respirator mask Utility knife Mineral spirits Damp cloth Refinishing kit (includes surface cleaner, sand paper, surface prep chemicals and paint) Paint sprayer Non-abrasive kitchen cleanser Tack cloth Newspaper Tape Plastic bag Caulking
Instructions
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Use a knife to score both sides of the caulk. Remove old caulk by using a putty knife. Apply mineral spirits to the crack to remove any caulk residue.
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2
Remove drain covers and the plate surrounding the drain opening.
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3
Clean tub and sink with a non-abrasive kitchen cleanser such as Bon Ami. All debris and dirt must be removed or paint will not adhere properly to the surface. Rinse the tub thoroughly.
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4
Sand the tub and sink surface with a fine grit sand paper. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth. After they are dry, use a tack cloth to pick up any fine dust particles. Rinse again and let dry.
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5
Clean tub and sink with the solvent included in the refinishing kit. This will remove any mineral or soap build up and prepare the surface to accept the primer.
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6
Tape off all areas that will not be painted with tape and newspaper and cover the fixtures with a bag to prevent overspray.
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Mix primer included in the refinishing kit according to package directions. Apply with a paint sprayer in thin, steady and even strokes. Allow primer to dry completely.
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Apply top coat using same method as the primer coat. Work up from the bottom of the tub to prevent pooling.
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While paint is still wet, remove masking tape and newspaper from around tub and sink. Keep fixtures covered until surface is dry.
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Reapply caulk when paint is dry.
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Allow bathtub and sink to cure for two or three days before using.
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Tips & Warnings
Refinishing kits can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Be sure to have proper ventilation when using chemicals and always were rubber gloves, eye protection and a ventilator mask.
