Leo Martínez
Painting a bathtub can be a cost-effective way to revamp your tub and transform your bathroom. It is possible to paint the outside of a fibreglass bathtub, but it can be tricky and time-consuming. Before painting, the surface must be cleaned, dulled, and scuffed without scratching. Then, a high-strength epoxy coating, which can withstand the moisture of a tub, should be applied.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Epoxy paint |
| Paint brand | Rust-Oleum |
| Paint cost | $4 per can |
| Paint application | Spray paint |
| Surface preparation | Clean, dull, scuff, sand |
| Surface type | Fiberglass |
| Number of paint coats | Two |
| Drying time | Per manufacturer's instructions |
| Ventilation | Well-ventilated room |
| Protective gear | Respirator or mask |
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What You'll Learn
- Preparation: Clean, sand, and scuff the surface
- Epoxy paint: Use a roller or brush for an even coat
- Drying and curing: Follow manufacturer instructions; don't use the tub until cured
- Safety: Epoxy paint is stinky; ventilate the room and wear a respirator
- Longevity: Reglazing can last 3-5 years, but refinishing may not be long-lasting
Preparation: Clean, sand, and scuff the surface
To prepare the surface of a fiberglass bathtub for painting, it is essential to start with a thorough cleaning. Begin by removing any old caulk and drain hardware, then open the windows and turn on the bathroom exhaust fan. This will help ventilate the area and ensure a safe working environment.
The next step is to deep clean the bathtub, removing any grime, soap scum, mildew, or stains. Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fiberglass surface. Instead, opt for household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and water. Create a paste or a solution, apply it to the surface, and scrub thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge. Rinse the bathtub with warm water to remove any residue.
Once the bathtub is clean and dry, it's time to sand the surface. Sanding creates a scuffed surface that enhances paint adhesion. Start with fine-grit sandpaper, such as 400-grit, and work evenly over the entire surface. If there are any scratches, chips, or gouges, fill them with epoxy putty and sand these areas smooth. After sanding, remove any dust or debris with a clean cloth or vacuum before proceeding to the next step of the refinishing process.
It is crucial to wear protective gear, such as a respirator or mask, during the preparation process, especially when sanding, to avoid inhaling dust or chemicals.
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Epoxy paint: Use a roller or brush for an even coat
Painting a bathtub requires a specially formulated paint. Bathtubs are constantly exposed to water and moisture, so ordinary paints will not work. Instead, you’ll need a high-strength epoxy coating that can withstand a tub’s moisture demands. Epoxy paint has a self-leveling property, so don’t worry if you see some bubbles or brush marks—these should disappear as the paint sets.
Before you start painting, it is important to prep the surface. First, remove the tub’s existing caulk. Then, thoroughly clean the bathtub to remove dirt, scum, or debris, and use a bleach-and-water solution to eliminate any mildew. If your tub has chips or cracks, you’ll need to patch them with epoxy putty or a tub repair product so that you can apply the paint over a uniform surface. After rinsing, wipe a solvent such as acetone or paint thinner over the entire surface to remove any remaining grease or cleanser residue. Fill the tub with water and mark the waterline with tape. Anything below the tape will be underwater and doesn't need to be painted.
When your prep work is complete, mix the epoxy coating according to the directions, then pour it into a paint tray. Before you begin coating the whole tub, it’s a good idea to test the epoxy’s adhesion and appearance in a small, hidden area. After a successful test application, you’re ready to coat the whole bathtub. Start at the top in one corner and work your way across and down to the other side. Apply in a thin, even coat, being careful to smooth out any drips as you go with your roller or brush.
If you are using a paint roller, you can also use a high-quality paintbrush to work the coating into tight spaces, such as corners and around the faucet. It’s important to apply the coating lightly to prevent it from dripping or showing stroke marks, and maintain a wet edge as you work. Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and apply the second coat in the same way you did the first. Epoxy takes time to fully cure, so heed the manufacturer’s instructions on drying time. Don’t use the tub until the paint has fully cured—even if it feels dry to the touch, which might be as soon as an hour. Once cured, remove the tape, re-caulk the tub, and re-install the fixtures and drain hardware.
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Drying and curing: Follow manufacturer instructions; don't use the tub until cured
Drying and curing are crucial steps in the process of refinishing a fiberglass bathtub. Once you have completed the painting process, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying and curing. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Allow Adequate Drying Time: After applying the paint, make sure to allow sufficient time for the paint to dry. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time. This can vary depending on the type of paint and environmental conditions. The standard curing time for epoxy paints is typically between 24 to 72 hours.
Don't Use the Tub Prematurely: It is important to refrain from using the bathtub until the paint has fully cured. Even if the paint feels dry to the touch, it may not be completely cured. Using the tub too soon can damage the paint and affect its durability.
Ventilation and Safety: During the drying and curing process, ensure that the room is well-ventilated. Epoxy paints and other refinishing products can release potent fumes, so always wear a respirator or heavy-duty mask, gloves, and eye protection. Keep children and pets away from the area during this time.
Surface Protection: Before the paint has fully cured, take measures to protect the painted surface. Use painter's tape to cover the tile at tub level and any fixtures that cannot be removed. This will prevent accidental contact or damage to the fresh paint.
Re-caulking and Reinstallation: Once the paint has cured completely, you can carefully remove the painter's tape. Re-caulk the tub and reinstall any fixtures and drain hardware that were removed during the preparation stage.
Long-Term Care: Proper curing is essential for the long-term durability of the refinished bathtub. After the initial curing period, continue to care for the tub by wiping it dry after each use to reduce mineral buildup and extend the life of the finish. With proper care, the refinishing paint will last several years before requiring recoating or professional resurfacing.
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Safety: Epoxy paint is stinky; ventilate the room and wear a respirator
Yes, you can paint the outside of a fibreglass bathtub. To achieve a smooth finish, you must sand the surface evenly. Start with 400-grit sandpaper and work your way up to 600-grit. This process will create a suitable surface for paint adhesion.
Before painting, ensure the room is well-ventilated as epoxy paint emits strong fumes. Epoxy paint is typically applied using spray paint, which increases the amount of hazardous volatile components released into the air. If you must spray epoxy, use a ventilated and filtered spray booth to control hazardous vapours and spray mist.
It is crucial to wear protective gear when working with epoxy paint. This includes an air-supplied respirator and full-body protective clothing. Additionally, protect your eyes with safety goggles and cover your hands with rubber, plastic-coated, or disposable plastic gloves.
Always read the Technical Data Sheet and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for detailed safety information specific to the epoxy product you are using. These resources will provide important guidelines on ventilation requirements, disposal methods, and potential health risks associated with the product.
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Longevity: Reglazing can last 3-5 years, but refinishing may not be long-lasting
Reglazing a bathtub is a great way to refresh its look and make it appear new again. Reglazing with epoxy can give your bathtub a porcelain-like finish, but it may be tricky depending on the type of kit you use. The finish can last between three to five years if done correctly and with care.
Firstly, you must remove the old caulk and any fixtures in the bathtub. Then, clean the tub with a 10% bleach solution and an abrasive cleanser. After rinsing, wipe a solvent such as acetone or paint thinner over the tub to remove any remaining grease. Fill in any scratches or chips with epoxy putty, and sand the entire bathtub with 400-grit sandpaper, then again with 600-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Ensure the tub is completely dry before painting.
When painting, start at the top and work your way down, applying a thin, even coat. Epoxy paint has self-levelling properties, so don't worry about brush marks or bubbles. Allow the first coat to dry, then apply the second coat. Epoxy takes time to cure, so follow the manufacturer's instructions, and don't use the tub until it has fully cured.
While reglazing can last a few years, refinishing a fiberglass bathtub may not be as long-lasting. Fiberglass tubs have a softer surface that can be sanded, and paint adhesion is usually good. However, one source mentions that refinishing a fiberglass tub may not be worth it in the long term. This is because fiberglass is flexible, and a hard coating will crack when the tub flexes. Therefore, while reglazing can offer a temporary solution, a more permanent option may be to replace the tub.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. However, it can be tricky and time-consuming.
You should use a high-strength epoxy coating that can withstand a tub’s moisture demands. Ordinary paints will not work.
First, remove any old caulk and drain hardware. Then, clean the surface with a 10% bleach solution and an abrasive cleanser. After rinsing, wipe the surface with a solvent such as acetone to remove any remaining grease. Sand the entire surface with 220- or 400-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
Start at the top in one corner and work your way across and down to the other side. Apply a thin, even coat, smoothing out any drips as you go. Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before applying the second coat. Epoxy paint is stinky and takes time to cure, so ensure the room is well-ventilated and don't use the tub until it has fully cured.
Yes, you could consider replacing the tub or using an acrylic liner. Alternatively, for small items that have discoloured, you could try spraying them down with a degreaser and leaving them in the sun to bleach.
