Quickly Fix Small Paint Chips In Your Shower

A chipped bathtub can be fixed using an epoxy compound repair kit, a disposable tool to apply it, and painter's tape. The first step is to scrub the chipped area with soap and water, then rinse away any dust or wipe it down with a damp towel. Next, use a small spatula or paintbrush to apply a thin layer of epoxy to the chip, working in one direction and smoothing out any spots where it pools. Allow the epoxy to dry, then gently sand the surface with sandpaper until it feels smooth. If the chip can still be felt, apply more compound and repeat the process. Finally, apply a coat of paint, allowing it to dry before adding a second coat if necessary.

How to fix a small paint chip in the shower

Using epoxy paint

Epoxy paint is a great option for fixing small paint chips in your shower. It is a cost-effective solution that can save you from having to replace your entire shower. Before you start, it is important to carefully prepare the area. Firstly, remove any metal drains and hardware from the tub area. Use a wire brush and sandpaper to scrape away loose paint, rust, and grime. If there are any cracks or chips, fill them with a patching compound that is suitable for your tub's material. Allow ample drying time as per the repair material's instructions. Then, deep clean the area with an abrasive powder cleanser and a sponge.

Once the area is clean and dry, it is time to mix and apply the epoxy paint. Open the windows and set up fans to ensure good ventilation as epoxy paints emit strong fumes. Epoxy paint usually comes in two parts: a resin and a hardener/catalyst. Mix these together according to the manufacturer's instructions—you will usually have a window of around six hours before the compound hardens. Apply an even coat of paint to the tub and shower surfaces using a high-quality, fine-bristle varnish brush or a 1/4-inch nap roller. Brush in one direction to ensure a smooth surface and avoid excessive brushing and rolling.

After the first coat dries for about an hour, apply a second coat and let it dry overnight. Clean your brushes with isopropyl alcohol. Inspect the surfaces after the paint has dried. If necessary, mix a new batch of paint and apply a third coat. Two coats are usually enough, but a third may be needed if the shower was in poor shape to begin with. Allow the paint to cure for at least three days before reattaching the hardware and resuming regular use. Finish by applying new tub-and-tile caulk that matches the epoxy paint color.

Epoxy paint is highly durable and permanent, but it is important to note that prolonged exposure to water can cause peeling. Therefore, it is best to avoid using epoxy paint on anything with constant water immersion, such as a swimming pool.

Sanding and polishing

Sanding:

Before starting the sanding process, ensure you have the right tools. You will need a bathtub refinishing kit, which typically includes sandpaper, primer, refinishing paint, a paint tray, a brush, and a roller. These kits are available at most home improvement stores and can be used on various bathtub materials, including ceramic, porcelain, acrylic, fiberglass, and enamel tubs.

Start by scrubbing the damaged area of your shower with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. Once the surface is clean and dry, use the sandpaper from your kit to sand the entire tub. This process will help create a smooth base for the repair and remove any remaining loose paint or chips. If there are any cracks or chips still visible after sanding, you can apply an epoxy compound to fill them.

Polishing:

After sanding, it's time to polish the surface to match the surrounding area. For this step, you will need to use a finer grit sandpaper, such as 2000-grit sandpaper. Gently sand the patched area until it becomes smooth and blends in with the rest of the shower. Work in one direction and smooth out any spots where the epoxy may have pooled during application. It is important to follow the directions on your epoxy kit to ensure it is completely dry before beginning the sanding process.

Once the patched area is smooth and even, you can apply a coat of paint to the repaired area. Allow the paint to dry for the recommended time, typically around 15 to 20 minutes. After it has dried, apply a second coat if necessary, ensuring that you cover all the areas. Finally, allow the paint to cure completely before using the shower.

By following these sanding and polishing steps, you can effectively repair a small paint chip in your shower, creating a smooth and seamless finish.

Applying an enamel fix

Enamel paint is a great way to fix small paint chips in your shower. It is a simple and cost-effective solution, which can be completed in a few hours. Firstly, ensure you have purchased the correct colour enamel paint to match your shower. You can buy enamel paint from DIY stores or online, and a small tub will cost around £26.

Before applying the paint, you must prepare the surface. Clean the area thoroughly, removing any grease, loose pieces, and rust. Once the area is completely dry, use sandpaper to smooth the area around the chip. This will ensure a smooth finish.

Now you are ready to apply the paint. Put on some gloves to protect your hands and ensure the room is well-ventilated. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint application. Most enamel paints can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed on. For a smooth finish, use a top-quality, fine-bristle brush and paint in one direction only. Try to feather the edges as you paint to avoid hard lines.

Finally, leave the paint to dry. Depending on the product, this could take 48 hours to a week. Do not use the shower until the paint is completely dry.

Using a refinishing kit

Before using a refinishing kit, it is important to prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding the area. This ensures that the paint will adhere properly. It is also crucial to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator mask to protect yourself from strong fumes and odors. Additionally, you can use a fan and open windows to improve ventilation.

Once the surface is prepared, you can start by filling any holes or chips with a chip filler. After that, wipe on a liquid primer to create a smooth base for the paint. It is important to ensure that the surface is completely dry before proceeding. The next step is to mix the refinishing paint and hardener together, following the instructions provided in the kit.

After mixing, you can apply the paint to the desired area using a roller or a brush, depending on the kit's instructions. It is important to follow the recommended coating instructions, as some kits may require multiple coats for full coverage. Finally, allow the paint to dry and cure completely. The curing process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the kit used.

Repairing with a patch kit

Repairing a small paint chip in the shower with a patch kit is a straightforward process, and there are several kits available for different types of surfaces. The first step is to identify the type of surface that needs repairing. Common materials include acrylic, ceramic, fiberglass, and porcelain. Once you know the material, you can purchase a suitable patch kit from your local hardware store or home improvement store.

The Bathworks chip kit, for example, is designed for acrylic, ceramic, fiberglass, and porcelain surfaces and offers six common color options to match your fixtures. Other kits, like the Fortivo kit, provide several colors that you can mix to match the tint of your tub or sink. It's important to note that achieving an exact color match can be challenging, and it may be difficult to get precisely right.

Once you have your kit, make sure to read the instructions thoroughly. Most kits will involve mixing a filler compound and applying it to the damaged area. Some kits may also include a finishing compound to apply after the filler has dried. It's important to allow adequate cure time, which can range from one to three hours or even up to 24 hours, depending on the product.

For more significant damage, such as large cracks or holes, you may need a specialized kit like the Tub Repair Company's Floor Crack Repair Kit. These kits provide additional support to handle the weight and water pressure, ensuring a long-term fix.

Frequently asked questions