How to Reglaze a Bathtub

If your bathroom is looking dingy, maybe it is time for a bathroom remodel. One of the things that can make a bathroom look aged is the bathtub. Take a good look at your bathtub. Does it look a little dull? If so, it might be time for a bathtub reglazing. This is something that you can do yourself. It is a great project for all you do-it-yourselfers out there.

How-to Reglaze a Bathtub

1. Make sure there are no problems with your plumbing. It is not a good idea to start any kind of bathroom remodel if there is something that will need to be fixed. You do not want to get the bathtub reglazed and have to call in a plumber due to faulty pipes.

2. Take out any items in your bathroom that you do not want ruined. A bathtub reglazing can be a messy job.

3. Get some fresh air circulating through the bathroom. You do not want to breathe the chemicals that are going to be used in this type of bathroom remodeling. Turn on the bathroom fan and open a window. If you cannot do this then you will need to rent an aeration system. This is a very important step! Try your local carpet cleaning service to see if they rent out ventilation systems. If not, try the Yellow Pages.

4. Remove the showerhead and the spout. Also remove any other plumbing of that type.

5. Remove all caulking and grout before starting the reglazing.

6. Clean your tub thoroughly with an industrial strength cleaner. This type of cleaner can be found at Home Depot, Lowes, or something similar. You should be able to find something for less than $20.

7. Wash the bathtub with hydrofluoric acid according to the directions on the package. Be very careful with this stuff; do not get it on your skin or eyes. Please read this article from Wikipedia before using this on your tub.

8. You need to prime the tub with a waterproof epoxy primer. You should use one that does not require etching.

9. Finally, www.articlebase.com recommends, "applying an aliphatic acrylic urethane that was specially designed for the bathtub reglazing industry".

If you carefully follow these steps you should have a successful bathtub reglaze. Your tub will look as good as new. Now that your tub looks so good, what is next for your bathroom remodel? Perhaps, a new toilet!

Sources:
1. www.articlesbase.com
2. www.doityourself.com