How to Refinish a Rusted Tub
If you are thinking about updating or remodeling your bathroom you might want to update your tub. There are many ways to refinish your old or rusty tub without the costly expense of replacing it. Refinishing your tub also can save you a great deal of time since you don't have to tear out and replace the tub. Most refinishing projects can be completed over the weekend. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Eye protection
- Respirator
- Drop-cloths
- Plastic or metal scraper
- Utility knife
- Putty knife
- Rust remover gel
- Clean rags
- Degreaser spray
- Coarse bristled brush
- Tub repair kit
- Silicone
- Silicone applicator tool
Instructions
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1
Put on your protective gear. Open a window if you have one. Lay down the drop-cloths, inside and outside the bathtub.
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2
Scrape off any rust, using the plastic or metal scraper. Since you are refinishing the entire tub surface, it doesn't matter if the scraper makes any scratches on the tub surface. Preparation is the most time-consuming task of refinishing a tub. It also is the most important, so that the new finish will adhere correctly when applied.
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Scrape away the silicone seal that is around the tub's edge, using a utility knife and putty knife. Insert the knife and cut out all the silicone you can. Then pull out any remaining silicone with your hands. Work your way around the tub until all of the silicone is removed.
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4
Apply rust remover by using your scrub brush, working the gel into the affected areas. Let the product sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. Wipe away excess product and rust particles with a clean rag.
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5
Spray on a degreaser to the rusted areas that you cleaned off. Let the product soak in for about 15 minutes. Scrub the area clean with a coarse, bristled scrub brush. Remove your drop-cloth from within the tub.
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6
Separate the bonding agent from the spray finish. Both these components are found in your tub repair kit. This repair kit is used to repair your rusted tub. Some kits come with products that have to be mixed together. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper ratio between products. Some kits have separate, spray-on product. Either kit will work fine.
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Spray on the bonding agent for spray kits. Let dry for several hours and then apply a second coat. For kits that have to be mixed, apply the product, using a coarse, bristled paint brush. Let dry and repeat the process.
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Spray on the finish coat for spray-on kits. Mixed kits do not require this step. You may spray on one or two coats. Let dry for several hours.
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After the refinish job, apply a new silicone seal to finish off the job. You can purchase a small tube of silicone that does not require a gun to be used. Cut off the end of the silicone tube at a 45-degree angle. Hold it to the tub and wall edge and squeeze out, while slowly working your way around the tub. Smooth it out with a silicone applicator tool. Let dry overnight.
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