So what are you waiting for? Last Updated: August 3, 2020 It really helped when you said to use a putty knife and spray gun when you’re refinishing a bathtub. wikiHow's. Fix all chips, cracks, rust, and discoloration to make the tub look brand new again. But if any proves stubborn to scrape up with the blade, use grit sandpaper to remove it with ease. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. Many homeowners can even do it themselves with just a little bit of help. For this reason, they will prefer to keep the tub rather than replacing it. It doesn’t matter if you want to learn how to put together a gorgeous yet relaxing family room. After you’re have uncovered completely, apply the caulk along with all the places you removed the caulk before. Bathtub refinishing—also known as resurfacing or reglazing—is a valid option when porcelain, enamel, or fiberglass tubs become chipped, badly scratched, or cracked.The process involves first repairing any cracks or holes with a polyester putty or Bondo, then applying a spray or roll-on coating consisting of epoxies, urethanes, polymers, or a hybrid polyester-polyurethane blends. Then, tape off the edges of the tub and cover anything you don't want to refinish with plastic. Remove Tub or Shower Fixtures. Also, this makes the tub hard to clean because even after washing, it will still show stain in a very short time. Clean. Drying time will vary based on the type you use, so read the instructions included carefully. As most reglazing projects are done without pros, the costs tend to stay below the $100 mark. Don’t let anyone use the toilet in the bathroom while it dries as the fumes can still be dangerous. The total cost of a bathtub refinishing will include the cost of materials and labor. Read the instructions on the bathtub finish you purchased to know how long it needs to cure completely before you use the bathtub again. Our insight can guide the way for you. Also, keep in mind that before you apply the new finish, you should make sure that the bonding is very dry. Before you refinish anything, it should be cleaned. You may have to repeat this step more than once to get all of the soap scum and grime out of an old tub. It must be completely clean before moving on. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. I’ll have to hire a professional to refinish it instead of getting a brand new one. The reason is that if there is any leftover in the tub, this can make the new finish not to seal well. Apply three or four layers of a top-coat mixture with a sprayer, and let it cure. Give the caulk enough time to dry well before you use the bathtub. Also, since there are many different reglazer or finish on the market, make sure you buy the one meant explicitly for bathtubs refinishing. Unfortunately, steel is too durable for the same friction-based abrasion techniques used to … Extend the life and beauty of your newly refinished bathtub by waxing it every 6 months with a urethane polish that can be purchased at an auto supply store. The bathtub refinishing process involves three steps: First, the technician strips off the old finish and sands the tub to create a smooth surface. The most important guide when refinishing is to: If there is any other thing you find confusing, or you will like to add you can leave a comment below. Surely new tub lasts for a few years, but since you won’t want to remove your beautiful old bathtub, it is best to refinish it. Once you noticed it is weak, force it up and remove the caulk with the putty knife. That way you save more money on replacement cost and enjoy your old tub just like before. $31.97 SHOP NOW. Before you attempt to refinish a steel bathtub, understand a few important points. If you’re using a freestanding tub, you can neglect this step above. Will it be as smooth as a new fiberglass tub or will it be somewhat rougher? Bathtub Refinishing Costs. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Use the edge of the putty knife to slice into the caulk just as if you want to split it apart.