How To Resurface Fiberglass Bathtubs
After years of use, fiberglass tubs can become discolored and develop a dull surface. Instead of replacing the old tub with a new one, you can repaint the tub. Fiberglass is painted with gel coat, which is fiberglass resin that is pigmented with color. Gel coat also has additives that create a glossy finish along with a very hard surface, which is good for bathtubs. The consistency of gel coat is very thick; it is applied using a gel coat spray gun, which has a wider tip than other spray guns. All gel coat supplies needed for a tub can be found at your local marine supply store. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Mild detergent
- Scrub brush
- Towel
- Respirator
- Palm sander
- 200-grit sandpaper
- 400-grit sandpaper
- Vacuum cleaner
- Rags
- Acetone
- Painter's tape
- Gel coat
- Catalyst
- Small bucket
- Stir stick
- Gel coat spray gun
Instructions
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1
Clean the surface of the tub using a scrub brush and a mild detergent. Scrub away any soap scum or other buildup that may be in the tub. Rinse the tub out with water and wipe it out with a towel. Let the tub completely dry.
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2
Put on a respirator and sand the entire tub with a palm sander. Completely scuff the entire tub with 200-grit sandpaper, and then go back over it with 400-grit. Suck all the dust out of the tub with a vacuum cleaner and then wipe the tub down with a rag and acetone. Let the tub dry.
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3
Mask off any metal fixtures on the tub and the perimeter of the tub, using painter's tape.
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4
Mix the gel coat and catalyst in a small bucket, using a stir stick. Follow the recommendations on the catalyst and gel coat containers for the correct mixture. Put the gel coat mixture into the gel coat spray gun.
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5
Spray the first of two coats onto the tub in a consistent heavy mist. Keep the tip of the spray gun at least a foot away from the surface at all times to avoid any runs. Let the first coat begin to harden, and apply the second and final coat to the tub. The second coat should be heavier than the first and solidly cover the entire tub. Let the gel coat harden for at least 24 hours before running the water.
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6
Remove all the painter's tape.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Wear a respirator anytime you grind or cut fiberglass.
