Bathtub Bathtub refinishing process as we know it, has not been around for too long. Bathtub refinishing has been around as an industry for approximately 30 years.  During that time, the materials used to refinish a bathtub have changed dramatically, but the steps or process utilized in the preparation of the bathtub have not.

Old Technology
Acid Etching

Hydrofluoric Acid was used to “etch” or rough up the surface of the bathtub which would then help the coatings to stick to the porcelain bathtub or tile. If this material is mishandled it can cause damage to fixtures, floor tile or burns to the skin of the technician.

New Technology
Adhesion Promoter

Bonding agents are basically a type of “super glue”.  When this “super glue” is applied to the surface of the bathtub, the new coating will be chemically fused to the surface of the bathtub.  This process has proven to be the best method to allow coatings to adhere to the surface and is less likely to peel.

Steps taken to Refinish a bathtub

The bathtub is scrubbed clean with a powerful detergent that will remove any soap film build-up or residual film left behind by household cleaners.

• The tub is rinsed and dried completely using a high temperature heat gun to remove all moisture with special attention placed on the drain area and the area where tub meets surrounding tiled walls.
• Paper masking is installed around the tub to prevent over spray from getting on the tiles.  Other areas of the bathroom will be masked off with plastic if necessary.
• Bonding agent is applied to the surface of the tub.
• Slip resistant surface is applied to the floor of the tub.
• High Gloss Acrylic Urethane topcoat is applied.

A ventilator is used which helps remove over spray and fumes from the bathroom area.  It pulls the air from the room and with it the over spray and dust particles.
This piece of equipment is placed in the window of the bathroom, or if there is no window in the bathroom, a hose is attached and directed to the nearest window or door.
All materials are applied using an HVLP spray system.

Materials used to Refinish a bathtub

• Specifically formulated bonding agent for use on porcelain bathtubs and ceramic tile only.
• We use another bonding agent that is designed specifically for fiberglass shower/tub units.
• The finish coating is a high performance; two-component chemically cured Aliphatic Acrylic Urethane Gloss Enamel.  4H pencil hardness makes this product one of the most durable on the market. UVA (ultraviolet light absorber) added to prevent product, once applied, from turning yellow.