How to Restore a Cast Iron Bathtub

Cast Iron Tub Restored

Old Cast Iron Tubs are beautiful and can have a very unique look to them. But the key word being "old" can also mean they need a lot of work to restore them. With a little time and these step by step instructions restoring your old cast iron tub is only days away. So get ready because you will be surprised at how self-efficient you can really be!

Things You'll Need

• Tub refinishing kit (can purchased at most home improvement stores)
• Plastic garbage bags
• Ventilation system (this can be rented at your local hardware store or Home Depot)
• Razor blade
• Masking tape
• Palmer sander
• Shop vac
• HVLP sprayer (can be rented)
• Tack cloths
• Respirator--half masked
• Safety goggles

Instructions

1. Clear away everything from around the tub and remove everything that can be moved out of the bathroom to another place, such as pictures, bathroom decorations, and rugs.
   Scrape all the old caulking from around the edges of the tub, both inside and out.
   Remove the toilet if it is blocking the way of the tub at all. Cover up flange with a plastic bag so that you do not get any haze or residue from the spray down into it.

2. Cover everything, such as the vanity, mirrors, and cabinets that are in the room with large plastic bags or painters plastic. Secure the plastic in place using masking tape.
   Cover the entire floor with plastic as well, securing it down with masking tape.
   Cover all surrounding walls around the tub with plastic. If there is a window in the tub area, open it for ventilation and cover the rest of window with plastic.

3. Scrub your tub clean. The refinishing kit should have the tub cleaner included, but if it does not, use a non abrasive cleaner such as Bon Ami or even vinegar. Clean the tub well. After it has been thoroughly rinsed, dry it completely.

4. Sand the tub with a palm sander and sandpaper. The kit will have the sandpaper that is needed included in it. This sandpaper will probably be a 120 grit. Sanding can be critical since many old cast iron tubs have calcium buildup that can be difficult to remove otherwise. Clean out the dust particles with a shop vac and lint-free tack cloths.

5. Use the "primer reducer" next according to kit instructions. This is to help clean anything that may have been left behind from the cleaning and sanding.

6. After you have finished using the primer reducer, cover the faucet and shower head with plastic or remove them altogether. Cover any open holes or pipes that are left with plastic.

7. Open all windows that may be in the bathroom. Plug in your ventilation system (which can be rented at Home Depot or Ace Hardware stores). Put on a respirator and goggles.

8. Mix the primer base according to the instructions that came with the kit. Apply it with a quarter-inch nap roller brush or HVLP sprayer. Remember to prime inside and outside of tub. Dry according to directions. If you used the sprayer, clean it thoroughly to prepare for the top coat.

9. After primer base has dried properly and the sprayer has been cleaned thoroughly you are ready for the next step. Put on the safety gear and apply the top coat that came in your kit with either a 1/4 inch nap roller brush or a sprayer. Dry according to kit instructions, which usually call for about 48 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Though it is an option to apply the top coat with a roller brush, spraying the tub will give you a more smoother and professional look.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish