How to Repair Porcelain on Bathtub
Porcelain tubs are sturdy and usually require minimal cleaning to maintain their shiny appearance. A tub that is very old or has been damaged by a heavy or sharp object can require repair. The most common repair required for porcelain tubs is covering up scratched and chipped areas, which is not difficult. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Rubbing
- Alcohol
- Sponge
- Rag
- Hairdryer
- Enamel paint
- Paint brush
- Porcelain touch-up kit
- Steel wool
- Sandpaper
- Epoxy
- Polyester filler
- Porcelain paint primer
- Porcelain paint
Instructions
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Small & Quick Repairs
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1
Clean the chipped or scratched area with rubbing alcohol and a sponge (or rag). Allow the damaged area to dry. Aim a hairdryer at the area to speed the drying process.
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2
Apply an enamel-based paint over the chipped area with a small paint brush. You can also cover the area with paint from a porcelain touch-up kit. These kits are available at home improvement and paint stores and often come in the color of your tub. (See examples of porcelain repair kits, primers and paints in references).
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3
Allow the recommended time for the paint to dry on the instructions on the label. Apply additional coats of paint until you are happy with the appearance.
Bigger & More Complete Repairs
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4
Remove any chipped paint on the bathtub's surface with steel wool. Sand over the chipped areas.
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5
Clean the area with rubbing alcohol and a rag. Allow the surface to dry.
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6
Apply epoxy over the areas you sanded.
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7
Fill in any damaged areas with polyester filler placed over the epoxy. Allow time for the filler to dry. Sand over the filler until your tub feels smooth.
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8
Spray (or brush) on a coat of paint primer made for porcelain.
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9
Spray (or brush on) a porcelain paint to the damaged area.
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10
Allow the paint to dry for an hour before applying another coat.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If you are not sure if the paint matches the color of your tub, test it on a small part of the tub first. You can also apply a porcelain sealer after painting.
Don't use your tub for at least 48 hours after repairing it.
