Whether you are refinishing your bathtub or hiring someone else to do it for you, there are several things that you should know. Some tips include cleaning the tub properly, applying a coat of epoxy and caulking, and ensuring the bathroom is well-ventilated.
Using the right cleaners to clean the tub before the bathtub refinishing is important. The wrong cleaners can dull the tub’s finish and cause damage. Using the wrong products can also void the warranty. Before cleaning the tub, you should remove all hardware, caulking, and silicone materials. The surface should be free of oils, dirt, and soap scum. If you have soap scum, you can remove it by scrubbing it with a sponge or a scouring pad.
Clean the tub using a non-abrasive liquid cleaner. For example, Lysol Tub and Tile Cleaner does not contain bleach. You can also use Ajax or Bar Keepers Friend. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
After scrubbing the tub, you should rinse it with warm water. Using warm water removes soap residue and hair. It also helps remove surface-level dirt. After you are done scrubbing, you can apply a coat of wax. This protects the finish from damage and makes the tub easier to clean. You can also use a liquid detergent to clean your tub.
Applying the epoxy coating. Whether you are refinishing a tub yourself or hiring a professional to do the job, the procedure involves applying a hard epoxy coating to the tub. This coating helps to make the tub easier to refinish. The epoxy coating is made from a base and activator. It is mixed and applied with a paint roller. It is best to apply the paint in two thin coats. A sponge brush is also a good idea to smooth out any major drips.
The next step is to sand the surface. It is important to sand the bathtub, as the epoxy coating will not adhere well to a smooth surface. It is best to roughen all the corners of the tub to ensure that the coating adheres to the surface completely. It is also a good idea to clean the tub. This will help to remove any dirt or built-up grime. You can also use a chemical bathroom cleaner.
Applying to caulk. Choosing the right caulk for your bathroom is essential. It should be not only waterproof but also durable. It should also be easy to apply. There are several different types of caulk on the market.
Some of the best caulks for showers and sinks are acrylic latex. They are water-resistant, dries quickly, and match sink glazes. You can also find acrylic latex caulk in a wide range of colors. If you need to re-caulk your bathtub, the process is easy. You can start by removing the old caulk. You can use a razor blade, a putty knife, or a 5-in-1 painter’s tool.
After removing the old caulk, you should use a drop cloth to protect the tub. You can also use a hair dryer to dry the area. Once the area is dry, you can begin applying the new caulk. It is best to apply a small amount at first. If the caulk seems too thick, you can cut the tip of the caulk.
Ventilation is important for bathroom refinishing. During your bathroom refinishing project, you should properly ventilate the area to ensure a healthy and sanitary environment. Moisture can build up in the air without proper ventilation, resulting in mold and odors. Excessive moisture can also damage drywall, framing, doors, and cabinets. Moisture can even peel off wallpaper and paint. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to make your bathroom ventilation system more effective.
One important tip is to check the vent fan’s capacity. If the unit is too powerful for the space, it can cause negative pressure in the bathroom. It can also interfere with the furnace’s ducts. Also, the unit’s capacity should be large enough to exchange room air eight times per hour. If the capacity is not sufficient, you should install an extra-capacity fan. In addition, you should check the model and CFM rating of your vent fan. If you have a high ceiling, you may need a higher-capacity unit.
