The majority of homeowners choose tub reglazing over purchasing a new bathtub. Why? Because when done correctly, competent bathtub refinishing can make a tub seem as good as new. This approach also allows your clients to keep their tubs in place, eliminating the need to replace existing flooring, tiling, fixtures, and other features. Instead, the surrounding surfaces are covered off and left alone while the repair is done.
There are several elements to consider while refinishing a bathtub. In the sections below, we’ll review even easy tips to make your next tub reglazing endeavor a success.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before you begin your bathtub repair project, you must thoroughly organize your workspace. In addition to protecting all surrounding surfaces, you must take all necessary safety precautions. To keep the area well-ventilated, turn on the bathroom fan, open a window, and utilize an industrial fan to push the air outside.
Step 2: Remove Caulk
First, remove the overflow plate above the tub drain. Using a utility knife, cut the caulk where it meets the surround. When the caulk begins to lose, use a putty knife to pry it away gently. (Don’t worry if black marks appear during this technique; they may be removed afterward.)
Note: If the caulk you’re removing contains silicone, you’ll need to use a silicone digester to remove the residue. If this is done, the tub reglazing job will be protected.
Step 3: Clean the Bathtub Thoroughly
A tub must be cleaned entirely before refinishing. Scrub it with a scouring powder and pad first. A razor scraper may also be used to remove soap scum. Remember to clean the space under the soap dish, where debris is prone to build. Finally, since the drain is the most typical region where tub reglazing fails, could you pay particular attention to it?
Step 4: Repair Any Damage
The surface of a bathtub must be smooth when refinishing it. Any chips, cracks, or other damage must be repaired first. Line the bottom of the tub with masking paper and use a putty knife to spread filler over the flaws. Allow the filler to cure completely before sanding. This process must be repeated until the desired outcome is achieved.
Step 5: Sand the Tub
The surface of the tub must be sanded when it has thoroughly dried. Sand the surface by hand or with an electric orbital sander and 120-grit sandpaper. Using your respirator is critical at this point. After sanding the whole tub, wipe away the dust and debris with a moist paper towel. Wipe away from the drain and towards the rear of the tub. Finally, use lacquer thinner or a detailing compound to finish the job.
Step 6: Apply Masking Tape
Mask off the tile around the tub and the adjacent floors after that. It would help if you also taped over the drain (remove any excess so it doesn’t get in the way of the glazing). Place a rubber glove or equivalent barrier over the faucet and showerhead to protect the tub reglazing operation from leaks.
Step 7: Apply Tub Reglazing Product
After completing stages one through six, the glaze may be applied. Because each bathtub refinishing product is unique, thoroughly read the instructions. The masking may be removed once the tub has dried for a few hours. But take your time with this stage. Otherwise, dust will attach to the tub’s surface. After 24 hours, re-caulk the bathtub. After 48 hours, replace the overflow lid to complete the repair.
More Information about Professional Bathtub Refinishing
JW Toms River Tub Reglazing provides bathtub refinishing training courses and anything else you need to improve your reglazing skills. Please get in touch with us at any moment to learn more.
