I have been asked many times in my 34 years as a coating developer about bathtub refinishing, bathtub glazing and tile refinishing. Let me start by saying that there is no difference between bathtub refinishing and bathtub glazing, they are the same thing. The main question people ask is “does it work?”.
The answer is yes and no. The failure and success of Bathub finishing depend on both the skill of people and the quality of the product. The people part is about whether the technician has any real tried and tested experience. When it comes to a franchise operation, you will often find that the technician has probably gone through a crash course in the process and it is very difficult to learn everything there is to know and also master the physical application.
I like to compare the process to someone taking a crash course to “learn to drive a car.” The individual can probably learn to drive a car in no time, but would you trust the newbie to drive your family cross-country?
This seems a bit dramatic for an example, but considering what the bathtub refinisher is responsible for while refinishing the bathtub in your home, I think it works. Some of the refinishing aspects can have quite serious consequences if not done correctly, which is why it’s important to be informed about bathtub refinishing before you decide. The technician has to use an acid etching agent to make the bathtub porous so that the coating will adhere to the surface of the bathtub. This part of the process should use a portable ventilation system that exhausts the fumes outside the house. The etching solution usually contains hydrofluoric, phosphoric, or hydrochloric acid. Most of us know that acids can damage other surfaces if accidentally spilled or dripped on them. Another key concern is the potential harm to pets and family if any of the spills come in contact with the skin.
The bathtub painter has to prepare for the application of the refinish coating which is usually sprayed on (I wouldn’t trust someone who claims to use a roller or brush to apply the finish). The coatings are hazardous to your breath and people with asthma or respiratory conditions are very vulnerable to exposure to these types of materials. Unfortunately, most waterborne coatings are not suitable for the humid environment of a bathtub, leaving the refinisher with few options when it comes to coatings that will work.
Types of coatings:
Automotive coatings and primers are generally not the best choice for refinishing bathtubs, but they are commonly used and often relabeled “china coating” and primer. The most effective for bonding and wear are high solids aircraft coatings and primers, but these are often the most dangerous to use during application. Epoxies have good adhesion and moisture resistance, but may yellow over time.
sets:
I personally do not recommend bathtub refinish kits due to the high failure rate and once they start to peel you are in big trouble. Failed finish must be removed before repainting, and if done by a professional bathtub refinisher, the overall cost of the job will increase.
The average useful life of a refinished bathtub is (automotive) 1-3 years (aircraft linings) 3-5 years depending on usage.
Choosing a Bathtub Refinishing Company – There are several things to consider when deciding which company to use.
How long the company has been in business.
How does the company treat toxic fumes?
How many bathtubs has the technician who will refinish your bathtub repaired?
Get referrals from customers who had their bathtubs refinished at the start of the business.