How to Refinish Bathtubs Yourself

Bathtubs take a lot of wear and tear from normal use. Fortunately, they're sturdy and hold up for many years. Over time, however, the surface may have scratches from cleansers and usage that affect the appearance. You can hire a professional to repair the bathtub, or bathtub refinishing kits allow a do-it-yourselfer to give the bathtub a makeover. Bathtub resurfacing takes patience, but the end result is well worth the wait.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Bathtub refinishing kit
• Sponge
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Palm sander
• Paper towels
• Masking tape
• Plastic bags
• Epoxy filler
• Putty knife
• Paint roller
• Paintbrush
• Paint tray
• Silicone caulk
• Caulk gun

Instructions

1. Clean all of the surfaces of the bathtub with a sponge and the cleaning powder from the bathtub refinishing kit. Remove all of the soap scum, lime and rust buildup so the refinishing materials adhere to the tub. Remove any caulk that surrounds the tub as well. Rinse the tub well with clean water.

2. Unscrew the water spout into the bathtub. Remove the faucets with a screwdriver. Put the hardware in a safe place. If you can access underneath the tub, also remove the drain plug.

3. Dampen the bathtub with warm water and scrub it with 120-grit sandpaper. Sand hard enough to remove the shine. If you prefer, use a palm sander to help. Rinse the area well. Blot up water with paper towels. Allow the bathtub to dry.

4. Mix the epoxy filler, spread it on large cracks or dents in the bathtub with a putty knife and allow it to dry.

5. Slide a plastic bag over the water inlet where the spout was. Tape it in place with masking tape. Repeat this process for a shower head. This keeps water from accidentally dripping on the surface as you refinish it. Tape masking tape around the edges of the bathtub as well as the faucets, overflows and drains.

6. Mix the bathtub hardener in the kit with the coating, following directions on the package. Shake or stir the mixture well for at least five minutes. Allow the mixture to set for an additional five minutes before applying it.

7. Pour half of the bathtub refinishing product into a paint tray. Use a paintbrush to paint the hard-to-reach areas. Once you finish them, apply the rest of the product in the tray with a paint roller. Allow the product at least an hour to dry.

8. Apply the remaining product liberally to the bathtub. Use the roller to work out any runs. Allow this coat to dry completely for at least 48 hours.

9. Remove the masking tape. Reattach the bathroom fixtures. Recaulk the edges of the tub with silicone caulk applied with a caulk gun.

Tips & Warnings

• Wait at least 10 days before using an anti-slip mat in the bathtub. Remove it from the surface after each use.

• Depending on your bathtub refinishing product, a primer coat may be added to the bathtub before the topcoats.

• Keep windows and doors open in the room to provide plenty of ventilation as you work.

• Protect your hands with rubber gloves.

References

• Tubby: Instructions
• Repair Home: Bathroom Remodeling

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish