Benefits of Bathtub Refinishing
Most homeowners prefer tub reglazing to purchasing a brand new bathtub. Why? Because when executed properly, professional bathtub refinishing can make a tub look good as new. Furthermore, this process allows your clients to keep their tub in place, preventing the need to alter existing flooring, tile, fixtures and more. Instead, the surrounding surfaces are simply left in place and masked off while the work is completed.
There are several factors to consider when resurfacing a bathtub. In the sections below, we'll outline seven simple steps to make your next tub reglazing project a huge success.
Step #1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before beginning your bathtub refinishing project, you'll need to properly prepare your workspace. In addition to covering all of the surrounding surfaces, you'll also need to take all of the necessary safety precautions. To keep the room well-ventilated, open a window and use a ventilation fan to reduce odors and overspray.
Step #2: Remove Caulk
First, remove the overflow plate above the drain. Next, use a 4" wallpaper scraper to cut out and remove the caulk where it meets the surround.
Step #3: Clean the Bathtub Thoroughly
Before you can refinish a tub, it must be thoroughly cleaned. Start by using a heavy duty cleaner and a scrub pad to scrub it down. You'll also find that a razor scraper is an excellent way to remove soap scum. Don't neglect the area under the soap dish – debris is likely to accumulate there.
Step #4: Repair Any Damage
When refinishing a bathtub, the surface must be absolutely smooth. This means that any chips, cracks or other damage must be repaired beforehand. To do this, use a putty knife to apply filler over the defects. Allow the filler to dry completely and sand smooth.
Step #5: Apply Masking Tape
Next, you'll need to mask off the tile around the tub as well as the surrounding flooring. You should also mask the drain by placing tape over it (just remove the excess so it doesn't get in the way of the glaze.) To prevent drips from ruining the tub reglazing process, place a latex glove or similar barrier over the faucet and showerhead.
Step #6: Apply Tub Reglazing Product
When steps one through five have been completed, you're ready to apply the glaze. Be sure that you read the instructions for the bathtub refinishing kit thoroughly, as all bathtub refinishing products are different. After the tub has dried about 30 minutes, the masking can be removed.
Step #7: Caulk The Tub
After 30-40 minutes, re-caulk the bathtub and re-install the overflow plate.
For more articles like this visit our Blog. If you are a professional refinisher and want to join other like-minded professional refinishers to discuss process, visit the elite Facebook group Bathtub Refinishing Contractors.
Learn More About Professional Bathtub Refinishing
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