Do It Yourself Bathtub Reglazing

Bathtubs last for many years, but over time the surface may develop scratches due to wear and tear and chemical cleaners. Products are available that allow the homeowner to complete a bathtub reglazing project at a fraction of the cost of having it professionally done, yet with the same end result. Bathtub refinishing does require some patience, but if you take your time and follow product instructions carefully, the bathtub repairs should have your old tub looking like new.

Things You'll Need

• Bathtub cleaner
• Old towels
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Palm sander
• Shop vacuum cleaner
• Masking tape
• Craft paper
• Putty knife
• Spray bottle
• Bonding agent or chemical adhesive
• Paint sprayer
• Bathtub primer
• Acrylic polymer coating
• Silicone sealer
• Caulk gun

Instructions

1. Clean the bathtub thoroughly with a cleaner designed to remove grease and stains from it. It doesn't matter if the cleaner scratches the surface as you scrub it on. Rinse the tub well with clean water and completely dry the surface with an old towel.

2. Attach fine grit sandpaper to a palm sander. Use the sander to rough up the entire surface of the tub. Keep the surface as level as possible as you use the sander. Remove only a thin layer of coating from the bathtub's surface.

3. Remove the grout sealing the tub with a putty knife. Take off any trim around the tub as well as the tub's fixtures. Use a shop vacuum to remove all the dust from the previous step. Clean around the bathtub as well as inside it.

4. Cover any surfaces that you don't want to get reglazing materials on. Use paper and masking tape to cover those areas.

5. Put the bonding agent, or chemical adhesive, into a disposable spray bottle. This liquid helps the primer and paint adhere to the tub's surface. Spritz the entire surface with the adhesive. Allow the adhesive about five minutes to dry before you start the next step.

6. Follow the mixing instructions on the bathtub primer. Load primer into the container of the paint sprayer. Spray back and forth using light strokes as you coat the bathtub. Avoid covering the same spot twice as it may cause the primer to run. Allow the first coat of primer to dry 30 minutes, and then spray another coat on. Allow it to dry 30 minutes as well. Clean the paint sprayer.

7. Mix acrylic polymer coating according to package directions. Add it to the paint sprayer's container. Spray the bathtub with light strokes as you did the primer. Allow the first coat to dry 30 minutes. Apply a second and third coat of polymer coating with 30 minutes of drying time between each one.

8. Remove all of the masking tape and paper. Replace the grout with silicone sealer applied with a caulk gun. Put the fixtures and trim back in place. Allow the bathtub to cure at least 48 hours before using it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you aren't familiar with the operation of a paint sprayer, practice using it on a scrap of wood set up outdoors.

• Use rubber gloves and a face mask when working with chemicals, the hand sander and the paint sprayer. Keep the windows open to allow for good ventilation.

References

• RepairHome: How to Refinish Your Bathtub