What if your bathtub could be transformed in one day from embarrassing to your bathroom's sparkling centerpiece? The first benefit of refinishing a bathtub is its affordability compared to purchasing a new tub. Some Bath Bombs Contain a Lot of Oil Refinishing is well-suited to very old tubs, which typically have more character and are made of higher-quality materials than what's available today. Think of it like youre putting nail polish on your nails. . Then when the surface is smooth, layers of primer and paint are applied to fill up the cracks and buff the surface. Bed Bath & Beyond stakeholders who have questions can email BBBYInfo@ra.kroll.com or call at (833) 570-5355 or (646) 440-4806 if calling from outside the U.S. or Canada. Now we know that reglazing can retain the old look of your bathtub by removing all the scratches, cracks, and stains. Bathtub refinishing kits make reglazing a bathtub an easy DIY project, but the tub must be free of major damage and instructions must be followed to avoid severe damage. Rinse the tub with warm water to remove hair and excess soap residue. Provided your surface was prepped correctly, you can expect your reglazed tub and/or tile to be good for about seven to 10 years, and the more you take care of it, the longer it will last. The coating needs to be cleaned frequently with mild cleaners and soft sponges but it helps to know exactly what to use to clean a reglazed bathtub. But it's not just about looks. There's no consensus on whether or not to use vinegar to clean a refinished tub. How to get your plans past the board, 3 NYC apartment bathroom renovation veterans on what they learned from the process. Otherwise, exposure to those chemicals can result in serious injury. New York finally gets a budget, but it doesn't include major housing initiatives. How to break the lease for your NYC apartment, What does 'net effective rent' mean? The second drawback of refinishing a bathtub is the (few) safety hazards that can occur if you dont follow instructions properly. Likely can only reglaze once (tub can be severely damaged) Quick turn-around time. In fact, a good reglazing job can extend the life of your bathtub because it will provide an extra protective layer over top of any spots that have seen minor damage. It's important to note that these products don't use the same technology as the professionals, and the results are less durable and often look painted on rather than smooth. If you plan on refinishing a bathtub yourself, make sure the area has proper ventilation before you begin. If you choose a non-slip bathmat without suction cups, only use it when in the bathtub, remove it from the tub after use, and hang it up to let it dry. You get to choose the material of your tub, and can always opt for a less expensive option, like fiberglass or acrylic, and put more money towards the labor involved. Plus, it allows you to preserve an older design, such as an antique clawfoot tub, that adds character to a bathroom but has seen better days. 4. Before you dive right in, do some research and make sure youre working with contractors who are experts in bathtub liners. It would also void the warranty on a professional refinishing job. If you want to cover the walls as well, it might take a bit more time. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Due to the wrong technique, these issues may appear almost immediately after you reglaze your bathtub: Here are some problems which may arise after years of using the bathtub: Here are your three options when it comes to fixing the above reglazing problems: The first fix is redoing the reglazing all over again but ensuring that you do it the right way this time around. If your tub has seen better days and reglazing just wont cut it, a liner might be the best option. And if you use one of the tub refinishing kits (like this one found at Amazon we used on our rental property), you can tackle this project yourself for less than $100. Most tubs can be reglazed if they are not overly damaged, but the process is generally recommended for steel, cast iron, or fiberglass tubs. If the tub has a non-slip surface, you can scrub this area with a soft, nylon-bristle brush. So, you can use your bathtub after two days. Even if you hire a professional, let the area air out and keep it ventilated after the work is complete until you can no longer detect any unusual or chemical odors. You can also update your tub to a shower in some cases. If you must bathe your pet in a reglazed bathtub, you should put down a towel on the tub's bottom so there is no damage from claws. (Fun fact: You can make it any color you want, so if youve ever wanted a purple bathtub, that dream can be realized.). Rinse the tub to remove dust. In addition, youll also have to pay the expenses for any new plumbing, piping, and the overall costs of getting rid of the old bathtub and installing the new one. Never allow chemicals like dyes, drain openers or bleach sit on your refinished surface. Its a fairly easy job to complete yourself (as long as you follow instructions to the T), and it makes a world of a difference to the looks of your bathroom. (Removing a tub and installing a new one can cost thousands, and if youre in an apartment building, it might even require getting your downstairs neighbor involved as it may impact plumbing beyond your apartment. Let the coating cure completely before using your bathtub. Hi there! Installation typically takes only a day or two, but the whole process can take between one and two months since installers first need to take photos and precise measurements of the area before molding a liner out of acrylic. Using methylene chloride products in a bathroom is extremely dangerous as bathrooms are often small, enclosed spaces with little or no ventilation. If you can afford it, get a new bathtub. If that worries you, you can always have your tub professionally reglazed for a couple of hundred dollars (which is still cheaper and faster than a new tub installation). link to Robern Vs. Kohler Medicine Cabinet: Which One Should You Pick? Reglazing your bathtub is a fun and relatively simple DIY project, especially considering the alternative of fully replacing the bathtub and all of the hassles that entail. The last drawback to reglazing a tub is that youll likely have to stay the night somewhere else until the fumes wear off. Furthermore, the product enjoys a 24-hour cure time, is eco-friendly, and has a bright and glossy coat. I will definitely be using this brand on our next bathtub reglazing job! If the work isnt done properly, the surface not prepared properly or if there are an pre-existing conditions (water having gotten in anywhere, for instance) you are basically just covering up a problem that will resurface again soon enough," said Dean F. Rascoe, sales and marketing director at remodeling company G.M. All it takes is a bathtub reglazing kit like the Ekopel 2K Bathtub Reglazing Kit which comes with all the necessary tools and a video tutorial to help you do it. Some problems arise almost immediately due to wrong technique, while others occur after years due to tub usage. However, you may have to wait for a day or two before you can use the tub. At the same time, you want a cleaning method that will actually work. Why? Now that youve seen the full list, lets further break down each point so you can make the right decision for your situation. Continue with Recommended Cookies. DIY With Christines main focus is helping yourenovateanddecorateyour dream home without relying on others or paying a contractor outrageous fees. What is Clear Coat Spray Paint: 4 Benefits for Your Next Project! (All You Need To Know), Use gentle liquid soaps avoid abrasive options like bleach and ammonia-based cleaners, Dont use power sprays as they can damage the tub and void its warranty, Scrub with non-abrasive material like microfiber towels or sponges. If your bathtub has severe scaling, cracking, abrasions on the surface, or other deep dents or holes, reglazing wont be enough to bring the tub back to life. Does he owe me? Bathtubs should be refinished every seven to 10 years, or more frequently if there is significant damage, stained, or you (or your homes previous owners) havent been cleaning your bathtub the right way. For a number of reasons, bath bombs are actually harmful to your tub and pipes The Salt Might Not Dissolve Typically, the all the salt of the bath bomb should dissolve in your bath water. It is only normal to expect a polished feel when using the bathtub after reglazing. However, don't do it yourself! She and her contractor agreed to wait until the weather cooledto remedy the situation. But from a cost perspective, its more cost-effective reglazing a bathtub than getting a new one. What Is The Ideal Spray Paint Temperature? Thats often the case when fungi and mildew invade the tub. The first drawback of reglazing a bathtub is that you likely can only reglaze once. That worked well enough, and between coats of paint, we left the area completely to stay away from the fumes! Also, if the tubs surface is not sanded properly, that can be another potential reason. Bed Bath & Beyond's competitors are coming to the rescue of customers looking to use expired coupons issued by the failed retailer. If your existing bathtub is already in pretty good shape but is covered in minor stains, scratches or other surface imperfections, reglazing is a good option. First, the technician strips off the old finish and sands the tub to create a smooth surface. If you want a permanent fix, you should get a new bathtub. Instead, if the surface feels unpolished and rough, that indicates a potential problem in reglazing. Methyl chloride has high vapor pressure, meaning that it evaporates extremely quickly and turns into gas that can easily be inhaled, especially in a small bathroom that may not be adequately ventilated. Though it could be tempting at times, steer clear from cleaning your new glossy finish with the following techniques. On the other hand, reglazing is the final phase of the restoration process, where you give the tub a new look. Refinishing is also the best option with antique tubs that dont lend themselves to relining. This is a common solution for homes that were built in the last few decades, since the design and configuration of the bathtub will likely lend itself to relining unlike an older, historic home with a freestanding tub that cant be relined, DiClerico said. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. I am Clyde Mitchell and I actually write and run the site. For example, a plumber needs to remove the old bathtub and install the new one for days, which will cost you money. Bathtub refinishing is the entire process of restoring the bathtub to its former state. Big Lots said Thursday that it's "assisting shoppers . A liner is the least invasive option and fairly affordable. Heres how to estimate what a renovation will cost. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Sometimes, its less expensive to replace a tub than to get it refinished, especially if its a rare type of tub made of an unusual material. We were told when we did it that it only lasts about five years and I'm finding that to betrue, she says. The fumes and general exposure to the chemicals used during the glazing process can be dangerous. If the problem still persists, then you might have to call your refinisher gin to respray the finish. Changing up your tub is a great way to give your bathroom a makeover on a budget, Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles. The Pros & Cons Of Refinishing A Bathtub - CBS New York Need professional help with your project? And when doing the reglazing, wear protective gear such as a gas mask and gloves to protect yourself from the toxic ingredients. Therefore, after reglazing is done, a sealer is applied on the surface so that the layers underneath stay intact. Here's What You Need to Know, How to Paint a Deck for a Fresh, Weather-Resistant Finish, Should You Hire a Pro or Can You DIY Bathroom Updates? Is It Safe To Bathe In A Reglazed Bathtub - smartfamilyguides.com Bathtub Refinishing vs. Tub Liners: Which Is Best? Thus, softer methods using non-abrasives work well. In addition to our rental bathtub being an ugly color, it had a few tiny knicks in it that we were able to reseal with the refinishing kit. Any other surfaces in the vicinity of the tub should be covered in protective paper and drop cloths, and you should wait a day or two to remove everything and use your bathroom and tub. Cost To Refinish and Reglaze A Bathtub 2023 - Forbes Home Its not the most ideal situation but it is what it is. Provided the paint cures well, and the reglazing is done fine, a reglazed bathtub usually is safe to bathe in. We're starting to see chipped areasThey're more in the tub than on the walls. Using that tub refinishing kit certainly was cheaper than ripping out the old bathtub and tile just because we didnt like the ugly yellow color of the old one. It involves restoring the tub to its original look, giving it a fresh look, covering dents, chipping, and fading defects. With something heavy enough, it can even happen on a cured reglazed bathtub. Just as with anything involving strong fumes, people have died from too much exposure to stripping, paint, and primer fumes. There is no safe level of lead exposure for a child. How Long Does It Take To Tile A Shower? Right now, reglazing jobs dont require any certifications or licenses to perform professionally. Reglazing is a process of repairing and refinishing a porcelain or ceramic surface. Apply More Patch (Optional) If the patch is pitted or not thick enough, apply a second patch, let it dry, and sand it again. Porcelain, fiberglass, acrylics, and ceramic surfaces can be reglazed. 8 Pros & Cons of Reglazing a Bathtub - Everything You Need to Know! Dry the tub with a cloth. No bath mat is safe with a reglazed tub. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Nothing annoys like brownish or greenish stuff on the tub. Its an especially convenient job if you have two bathrooms because it means you wont be locked out of the bathroom all day longand possibly the next day as wellwhich makes the job a lot more doable. It is done by polishing the surface until it is shiny and new again. For one, its more cost-effective than getting a new tub, and if well maintained, the reglazed bathtub could serve you for up to 10 years or even more, which is pretty okay. Is It Safe To Bathe In A Reglazed Bathtub? - handyvarieties.com If the job is not done right it starts to peel, he says. Did you know that the fumes from the chemical used to refinish or reglaze your bathtub can be hazardous to your health? Not giving enough time to cure is the most obvious reason for this stickiness. How to Clean a Reglazed or Refinished Bathtub - The Spruce This is especially important when using dish soap, which can be dangerously slippery if left on a tub surface. Pricing varies based on the material you choose and the level of customization (shelving and other accessories cost more). Its quick, usually taking only a day to complete! And likely, once a third reglazing needs to be completed, the tub will probably be in such bad condition that it will be better to replace the entire thing anyway. Most tubs can be reglazed if they are not overly damaged, but the process is generally recommended for steel, cast iron, or fiberglass tubs. Thats why we see it a lot in historic neighborhoods.. The original tub almost always needs to be cut into pieces to fit through the bathroom door. The small and intricate repairs, sanding, priming, and painting can all be accomplished in a single day. This period may make it seem like the same thing. Timing: Getting a bath liner installed typically only takes a day or two to complete! If you wear a mask, use the exhaust fan & additional portable fans, keep the door open, and open up any nearby windows, the room should be ventilated enough to complete the work and leave. Reglazing allows you to pick a color coat that inspires you and one thats warm. All painted tubs peel, and the use of a mat makes that happen much faster. Thorough prep and and cleaning can preventbig headaches down the road. That will help this tub last for several more years longer now AND it looks and feels brand new! Homeowners who dont like the size, shape or location of an existing tub have the chance to totally customize their new space. Professionally glazed tubs will cost between $250 and $700 depending on the level of repair the tub needs. Refinished Bathtub Maintenance - Miraculous Makeovers The prep is the most important part of the job, says White. Poor preparation is responsible for that as it didnt remove the chip in the first place. Qualified pros will have all the necessary protective gear, including coveralls and masks with HEPA air filters. Bathtub reglazing is a cosmetic update where the tub's surface is sanded down, chips and cracks are filled, and synthetic material is used to create a smooth, glossy, and durable acrylic coating. ), How To Decide Whether To Install Gutter Guards Or Not (Pros & Cons List! However, you may have to wait for a day or two before you can use the tub. Neither the tub itself nor the coating applied on them can withstand heavy pressure exerted on them. Its also ideal for certain types bathtubs. Refinishing a tub consists of applying a new chemical coating with a special brush or roller to an acrylic, porcelain, fiberglass, or cultured marble bathtub without removing the old layer first. Do not use or clean a reglazed bathtub until it is fully cured, which usually takes about 24 to 48 hours. What You Need to Know About Bathtub Reglazing - Our Guide The substances pros use to reglaze a tub can be a bit dangerous. According to Forbes, reglazing an old bathtub is cheaper than replacing it. By cleaning regularly, you're cleaning just a minimal amount of grime. Once youre done repairing blemishes, refilling and sanding down cracks, and scraping off excess cosmetic defects, you can clean and prime the tub. Tub liner options can be limited in assortment, and wont totally change the look of your original tub. How Long to Wait After Reglazing Bathtub? Read This First!! So, how the chip is even there? Check out our guide below for everything you need to know about bathtub refinishing. GameStop is safe for now, thanks to its strong balance sheet. But actually, reglazing is done within a day, and drying the paint takes up the rest of the time. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Its worth looking into how long a company has been in business andits rating with the Better Business Bureau to get a sense of their track record before commissioning a job. Bed Bath & Beyond bankruptcy: Store closings, final sales, coupons and Without stripping, the previous glaze can generate a chemical reaction with current primer and paint layers, causing bubbles to appear. If youve got an old bathtub(or bathroom) and youre investigating your options for giving it an upgrade, youve likely come across the term reglazingalso known as refinishing or recoating, which can revive a tiredtub or evenold bathroom tile. Also, if the coating is mixed incorrectly or applied in a thin layer, it tends to wear off after some time. A reglazed bathtub must have 3 full days at 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit and 50% humidity to fully cure before use. Naturally, this is the most time-intensive and expensive option, and involves gutting your existing bathtub in order to install a new one. Here's the right way to clean your shower. Licensed and Bonded Established in 1985. Note that humidity affects both dry time and how well the topcoat bonds to the surface, so the cool, less-humid seasons of fall or spring providethe best conditions for this type of work. Bath liners are basically an acrylic replica of your existing bathtub except, you can change the color and skirt style if you want and they're relatively easy to install. If the problem still persists, then you might have to call your refinisher gin to respray the finish. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Bed Bath & Beyond filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Sunday. The bathtub can usually be used again in one to three days, and the finish should last 10-15 years. Cons Of Refinishing A Bathtub. You are able to employ a range of materials, including coatings, and relying on the brand, the result might last something between a few years for one DIY kit and a century upwards for a work life. As you can see here, poor preparation can turn into bigger issues and mess the whole thing up. Over the last 7 years, I have been blogging about home improvement and yes, I own ReliefInBath.com During these first two days, it should not be touched, used, or put in contact with water. To learn how to paint a bathtub yourself, check out my tutorial here. Your email address will not be published. Abrasives include harsh or gritty cleaners as well as rough sponges, like Scotch-Brite pads, steel wool soap pads, or sponges with an abrasive layer on one side. Brick Underground articles occasionally include the expertise of, or information about, advertising partners when relevant to the story. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost (including labor and materials) is $3,024. Tub reglazing: What you need to know about this affordable but stinky Bathtub reglazing has its fair share of drawbacks, which include the following: Bathtub reglazing involves some painting work, which means you may be exposed to fumes. Small levels can cause a lifetime of health damage. Almost any color or appearance can be achieved, including the look of natural stone or marble. Everything You Need to Know About Bathtub Refinishing Then comes the availability factor of your bathroom, another benefit of bathtub reglazing. If you decide to replace the tub, it can put your bathroom out of commission for days with a messed-up plumbing system. Vapors from this liquid can collect in the bottom of the tub and cause the person refinishing the tub to asphyxiate or even suffer from a heart attack because methyl chloride turns to carbon monoxide in the body, cutting off oxygen supply. Finally, a primer, multiple layers of coating, and a sealant are applied. Reglazing A Bathtub Pros and Cons (Is Reglazing Worth It?) Cooler, less-humid weather typical of fall or spring provides the ideal conditions, DiClerico said. If so, then getting an old one for cheap at a garage sale, flipper market, or Craigslist, which matches the description, makes sense. Unfortunately, steam doesn't get the job done when it comes to reglazed tub finishes, and it could quickly damage the finish, especially if it gets underneath the coating or through any cracks. If there are difficult stains, you are safe to use a nylon brush with soft bristles. Reglazing is the most affordable bathtub renovation option available and can cost you between $200-$650 on average. Solution: Applying the coatings properly and letting them dry is the only solution to this problem. Open all bathroom windows and doors and turn on the vent fan to help air out the room. Dont expect to reglaze your bathtub yearly, as that is not possible. Clawfoot bathtub refinishing - before and after Thatll help you understand from the start if you should consider it or not. (Wiping it off too quickly doesn't allow the cleaner to disinfect properly.). Reglazed tub peeling happens if a chip on the surface pops off through the coatings. No, not really. Whether you're the owner of a DIY-finished or professionally finished tub, it's best to use onlysoft liquid cleansers to clean and maintain the coating. Read more about me and my past home renovation projects here. Sometimes, your bathtub is just too far gone, and you need to replace it entirely. How to Clean a Bathtub or Shower With a Pressure Washer, How to Clean Soap Scum Off of Every Bathroom Surface, 9 Best Cleaners for Shower Glass Doors of 2023, DIY-finished or professionally finished tub, Sponge, microfiber cloth, or soft-bristle nylon brush. Here are the general advantages of reglazing a bathtub: While hiring a professional is advisable to avoid the various problems of tub reglazing, you can do it yourself. To avoid problems and maintain the coating, refrain from adding a bath mat or appliques with suction cups to your tub's surface. Reglazing is the most affordable bathtub renovation option available and can cost you between $200-$650 on average. So, without wasting any time, lets dive in. Reglazing can allow you to remove all these from your bathtub quickly at a fairly low cost. Even if you hire a professional to reglaze or refinish your bathtub, you and your family or other residents should leave the property during the entire process, including while the epoxy coat cures after application. You have to accept that reglazing might not always turn out to be perfect. The existing finish must stripped off and then the surface sanded down to create a . After ensuring you have proper ventilation, follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the paint. Sand the tub to roughen the surface, which helps the coating stick. Bathtub refinishing kits and reglazing are best used on ceramic tile and porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron, and steel tubs and sinks. Is It Safe To Bathe In A Reglazed Bathtub. The third benefit of refinishing a bathtub is how easy it is to change the color of your tub. *, Last updated on February 20th, 2023 at 04:22 pm. Stick to a strict cleaning schedule and non-abrasive cleansers to maintain a reglazed or refinished tub. To avoid problems and maintain the coating, refrain from adding a bath mat or appliques with suction cups to your tub's surface. 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