Refinishing a Porcelain Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide
Instead of replacing a worn porcelain bathtub, homeowners can refinish it with the right paint. This article outlines the necessary tools and steps to achieve a lasting finish.
By Toby Green6 steps
Sand the tub to stimulate surface adhesion.
Many homeowners opt to replace their old, tarnished-looking porcelain bathtubs, but thrifty do-it-yourselfers know that refinishing with the appropriate paint can restore their appearance. If you decide to paint your porcelain bathtub, you must follow a specific preparation and application strategy; otherwise, you'll end up with an unsightly finish that will eventually peel. Also, choosing the wrong type of paint will result in a finish that chips over time.
Step 1
Use a trisodium phosphate cleanser and a coarse brush to remove grime and soap scum from the porcelain bathtub. Rinse the tub thoroughly to avoid adhesion problems. Allow one to three hours for the bathtub to dry.
Step 2
To improve surface adhesion, sand the porcelain bathtub with 120-grit sandpaper.
Step 3
Cover the areas around the cleaned bathtub with plastic coverings. Secure them with a low-tack painter's tape.
Step 4
Put on a respirator.
Step 5
Spray the sanded porcelain bathtub with acrylic latex spray primer. Let it dry for three hours.
Step 6
Apply spray appliance epoxy to the primed bathtub. Wait a full day before using the tub.
