Hold on, here’s the real deal. Does your bathroom have a case of the “uglies?” You know, an outdated or drab look that’s bringing you down?
A worn-out or damaged bathtub can be a real eyesore and can really tank the overall aesthetics of your bathroom. But don’t start eyeing that dumpster yet.
There’s no need for a full-blown bathtub replacement when you can opt for a bathtub renovation that will breathe new life into your tub.
So, what’s the trick? Bathtub reglazing, my friend.
This process is a great way to refresh a bathroom without sending your tub to the landfill. If your tub looks like it’s seen better days, maybe it’s an off-color, chipped, or stained, it can be repaired, refinished, and restored to a glistening, like-new condition for a fraction of the cost of a new tub.
Sounds like magic, right?
Bathtub reglazing services are also a cost-effective option for hotels, dormitories, apartment complexes, and other commercial properties.
Most tub materials can be glazed, including cast iron, porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, and even bathtub liners.
However, just like any good magic trick, there can be some hiccups. Some issues may arise if the refinishing company uses low-quality materials or improper techniques.
So let’s dive into the common bathtub restoration problems and how to fix them.
Common Bathtub Reglazing Problems
Let’s face it, problems happen. Bathtub refinishing is done by applying thin layers of coating onto a well-prepared surface.
But when the surface isn’t prepped right, or the coatings are improperly applied, you might be looking at some bathtub problems.
Here are five common problems associated with reglazing and why they occur:
Bubbling Bathtub Glaze
Hold on to your hats because we’re starting with a bubbly problem.
Bubbling happens when the surface is not well-prepared, or the coating dries too quickly. Air gets trapped between the layers of coating, creating bubbles.
A rippled or dirty surface can also prevent the coating from adhering properly.
Cracking Bathtub Glaze
Ever heard of cracking under pressure? Well, bathtub glazes can do just that.
Coatings contain catalysts that create a chemical reaction. When these catalysts overreact, cracking can occur because the coating dries too fast.
A proper ratio of resin to catalyst ensures a smooth coating that dries at the right pace.
Bathtub Lining Peeling
Ah, a case of bathtub glaze peeling. A common problem among tubs.
Bathtub peeling can occur for a few reasons. If the coating is too heavy, it may run, sag, wrinkle, or fail to adhere properly.
Too much coating also increases the drying time, which allows the new glaze to pick up dirt, dust, or other debris.
Also, if water gets under a small chip on the surface, it can loosen the finish and cause peeling. An improperly prepared surface may peel because the coating simply can’t stick.
Fading Bathtub Glaze
Like an old pair of jeans, bathtub glazes can fade too.
When coatings are mixed too thinly, the underlying surface or coatings may show through.
This makes the new surface appear dull, chalky, or blotchy. Applying an appropriate thickness optimizes the look and durability of the reglazing.
Chipping Bathtub Glaze
Chipping is like the pesky sibling of bathtub glazing problems.
It happens when the user damages the surface, such as by dropping a heavy or sharp object onto the glaze. Poor surface preparation can also lead to chipping.
What is the solution to all these issues?
Using a trusted, licensed, and bonded company like Bay State Refinishing.
We’ll even make your vintage tub look like a million bucks. Whether it’s a clawfoot bathtub, an iron tub, or even bathtub liners, we can restore it to its former glory.
Bathtub Refinishing Process by Bay State Refinishing
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
At Bay State Refinishing, we provide top-notch bathtub reglazing services to transform your tired tub or clogged bathtub and add value to your space.
Our six-step process ensures that you don’t run into bathtub refinishing problems later. We use high-quality materials and allow ample drying time between applications of primers and glazes.
Step 1: Caulk Removal
Prior to starting any refinishing tasks, a majority of the caulk beads around the fixture’s edges are typically removed.
Step 2: Sanding and Cleaning
We strip the old coatings off your tub to ensure the new glaze sticks to the surface. Imagine this step as preparing a canvas for a masterpiece.
Step 3: Masking
Surfaces next to the areas that will be refinished are to be taped to ensure that they are not harmed during the process.
Step 4: Ventilation
Before we even touch that tub, we ventilate the room where we’ll be working. This ensures that dust and fumes from the reglazing process don’t compromise the air in your home or business.
People and pets sensitive to solvents or paint fumes should stay out of the immediate area for up to 24 hours. Considering the reglazing toxicity concerns, we take preventive measures to keep everyone safe and sound.
Step 5: Bonding Process
Before we prime and finish, we apply a bonding agent to the freshly prepared surface. This step is as crucial as butter on bread. It’s what gets us an even, durable reglaze, especially when the fixture is made from tile and porcelain.
Our bonding process has proven to be reliable for 15 years now!
Step 6: Glazing
The grand finale involves applying two coats of primer and three coats of acrylic urethane glaze. We’re patient folks, so we allow plenty of drying time between coats to ensure the coatings cure well.
Patience is key. We advise waiting 24 to 48 hours before using your tub. The drying time varies depending on the weather, humidity, and temperature.
Bay State Refinishing: Your One-Stop Solution
Bay State Refinishing offers an array of home improvement services, including fixing bathtub refinishing problems.
Whether it’s your first time refinishing a tub or you need to repair reglazing problems on a tub that’s been refinished before, we’ve got you covered.
And guess what? We back our work with a warranty you can trust.
So why wait? Call Bay State Refinishing today to transform your bathtub and schedule a free consultation. We also serve in areas including but not limited to Bedford, Ashland, Dedham, Dover, Medford, and Norfolk.
Let us add the sparkle back to your tub!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Refinish My Tub If The Finish Has Worn Off?
Absolutely. If the tub is in good condition, it can be refinished more than once. We remove old glazing to get a smooth, even surface and apply the new finish for a like-new look.
How Long Does It Take To Reglaze A Bathtub?
The preparation and glazing process can be completed in just a few hours. However, let the tub rest for 24 to 48 hours to ensure that the glaze cures properly. It’s like marinating a good steak. You need to give it time.
How Can I Fix A Peeling Bathtub?
If your tub has started to peel, call for professional repair services ASAP. Think of it as a bathtub’s cry for help. Minor peeling can be easily repaired, but if you wait, water can creep under the glaze and cause a larger problem. So don’t play the waiting game. Give us a ring!
