Repairing Peeling Paint In Your Tub: A Diy Guide

If your bathtub is peeling, there are several ways to fix it. The first step is to scrub and clean the damaged area with a sponge, soap, and warm water. You can also use acetone to clean the area and soften the caulk, making it easier to remove. Once the area is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean rag. Then, fill in any cracks or holes with epoxy, which will help to match the finish of the tub. You can also use a product like Rust-Oleum Tub and Tile Touch-Up to repair the peeling area. If the peeling is extensive and the metal is exposed, you may need to refinish the tub, which involves stripping it down to the bare metal and recoating it. This is a more labour-intensive and expensive process, so it may be worth calling a contractor who can reglaze the tub for you.

Prepare the area by cleaning and drying the tub

Before you begin the process of refinishing your bathtub, it is important to prepare the area by cleaning and drying the tub. This will ensure that the new paint or coating adheres properly and that your bathtub is thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying any new paint or coating. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare the area:

Step 1: Clean the Bathtub

Start by shutting off the water supply to your tub and draining any remaining water from the tub. Remove any cover plates, drain plugs, and bathtub spouts. Next, use a blade and chemical remover to remove all caulking around the tub. Be sure to get all of the caulk removed, as it will be difficult to remove once the new coating is applied. Use an abrasive cleaner or bleach to thoroughly clean the bathtub, paying special attention to the areas where you removed the hardware. For extra dirty tubs, you may need to repeat this cleaning process two or three times. You can also use acetone to clean the area, which will help soften the caulk and make it easier to remove.

Step 2: Scrub and Rinse

Scrub the bathtub with warm water and a tub cleaner, dish detergent, or an abrasive cleanser. You can also use a sponge and soap to scrub the damaged area. Use a plastic putty knife to remove any soap scum. Rinse the tub with clear water to remove any remaining residue. You may want to do this step multiple times to ensure that the tub is completely clean. Additionally, you can use a mild cleanser and a clean cloth to wipe down the tub as a final cleaning step.

Step 3: Dry the Bathtub

After rinsing the tub, use a clean rag or paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface. Make sure that the tub is completely dry before moving on to the next steps of the refinishing process. You can also use a vacuum to suck up any remaining water or moisture in the tub. If you live in an area with hard water, consider doing a second sweep to ensure that all the minerals are removed.

Step 4: Prepare the Area

Once the tub is clean and dry, take the necessary steps to prepare the area for painting. This includes laying down drop cloths and using painter's tape to mask off floors and walls around the tub. You can also lay plastic sheeting over other fixtures, such as the sink and toilet, to protect them from paint or coating. Be sure to wear old clothes and protective gear, such as a respirator and rubber gloves, to protect yourself from paint fumes and chemicals.

By following these steps, you will effectively prepare the area by cleaning and drying the tub, ensuring a smooth and successful refinishing process. Remember to take your time and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best results.

Use epoxy to fill in chips and cracks

Epoxy repair kits are a simple and affordable way to repair small cracks or chips in your bathtub. These kits are available for porcelain, enamel, ceramic, acrylic, and fibreglass repairs. Before using an epoxy kit, it's important to clean the area surrounding the chip or crack. Use warm water and a dish detergent to clean the chipped area. You can also use acetone, which will help soften the caulk and make it easier to remove.

Once the area is clean and dry, you can start mixing the components of your kit. Each kit comes with a catalyst and hardener, which you mix to create the epoxy. Follow the instructions for mixing and applying the epoxy, usually by mixing the two components together in a mixing tray with a small stirring stick. Protect the surface from spills with a piece of cardboard.

Next, fill the damaged area, adding thin layers of epoxy one at a time and smoothing them in one direction. It's easier to add small amounts of epoxy in thin layers than to remove excess, so be careful not to use too much. Once you have applied the patch, let it dry for the length of time recommended on the package.

After the patch has dried, sand it gently with sandpaper until it feels as smooth as the rest of the tub. If you can still feel the presence of the chip or crack after sanding, simply repeat the process to add another layer of epoxy.

Sand the tub

Sanding the tub is an important step in preparing the surface for a new coat of paint. It helps to create a rough surface to which the new paint can adhere. Here is a step-by-step guide to sanding your bathtub:

Prepare the Surface:

Before you start sanding, it is essential to clean the tub thoroughly. Use a sponge, tub cleaner or soap, and warm water to scrub the damaged area. You can also use acetone, which will help soften and remove any old caulk. Ensure you wear rubber gloves to protect your hands during this process. Once the tub is clean, dry it completely with a clean rag.

Choose the Right Sandpaper:

The type of sandpaper you use is crucial for effective sanding. Most sources recommend using a fine-grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit, to start with. This will help you gradually sand down the surface without causing any damage. You can then move on to a slightly finer grit, such as 400-grit, to ensure the surface is completely smooth. If you are working with a very glossy or slick surface, you may need to start with a coarser grit, such as 80-grit or 100-grit, to scuff up the surface and ensure the new paint will adhere.

Start Sanding:

When sanding, use gentle, even pressure and work in the direction of the grain if your tub has a noticeable grain pattern. Take your time and be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can create grooves or damage the surface further. Continue sanding until the surface feels dull and uniform. If there are any areas with stubborn paint or gloss, you can use a power sander with 40-grit sandpaper, but be cautious to avoid over-sanding, which can create low spots.

Clean the Surface:

Once you have finished sanding, use a clean cloth or vacuum to remove any dust or debris from the tub's surface. You can also use a scrubbing pad and a cleaning agent, such as Lime Away, to ensure the surface is free of any residue. This step is crucial, as any remaining dust or residue can affect the adhesion of the new paint.

Prepare for Painting:

After sanding and cleaning, your tub is now ready for the next steps in the refinishing process, such as priming and painting. Refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen products for specific guidelines on how to proceed. Remember to follow safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation during the painting process.

Prime and repaint the tub

If your bathtub is peeling, you can fix it by priming and repainting it. This is a great way to update the look of your existing tub without the expense of replacing it. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Prepare the Bathtub:

First, you need to prepare the surface of the tub. Start by removing the existing caulk and cleaning the bathtub thoroughly to remove any dirt, scum, or debris. Use a bleach-and-water solution to eliminate mildew and scrub the surface with a sponge, warm water, and dish detergent. You can also use acetone, which will help soften and remove the old caulk. Ensure you wear rubber gloves to protect your hands during this process. Once the tub is clean, dry the surface with a clean rag.

Repair Damage:

If your tub has chips, cracks, or holes, you will need to patch and fill them to create a uniform surface for painting. You can use a two-component epoxy kit for chip repair. After filling any damage, lightly sand the patched areas with fine-grit sandpaper (around 2000-grit) to ensure a smooth finish that matches the rest of the tub.

Protect the Area:

Before priming and painting, protect the surrounding area. Use painter's tape to cover the faucet and any other surfaces you don't want to paint. You can also use plastic sheeting to cover the floor, walls, and nearby fixtures. This will prevent paint splatters and spills.

Prime the Surface:

Choose a primer designed specifically for bathtubs. Some refinishing kits include a self-priming product, so check if this is the case before purchasing a separate primer. Clean the roller or brush you will use to apply the primer, removing any loose lint with sticky tape. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the primer, ensuring proper ventilation during the process.

Paint the Bathtub:

After the primer has dried, it's time to paint. Mix your chosen epoxy coating according to the manufacturer's instructions, then pour it into a paint tray. Test the adhesion and appearance of the epoxy in a small, hidden area of the tub before coating the entire surface. You can apply the epoxy with a roller, brush, or airless sprayer, working it into tight spaces with a high-quality paintbrush. Apply the coating lightly and maintain a wet edge to prevent drips and stroke marks. Allow the first coat to dry for 1-2 hours, then apply a second light coat.

Final Steps:

Once the second coat has dried for about an hour, remove the painter's tape. Reinstall any tub fixtures and seal the joints with fresh silicone caulk, letting it cure overnight. Finally, clean your roller or brush with the appropriate solvent, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Your refinished bathtub is now ready to use and enjoy! Remember to use non-abrasive cleaners and mild dish soap to maintain your newly painted tub.

Reglaze or refinish the tub

Reglazing or refinishing a bathtub is a great way to upgrade your bathroom without blowing your budget on a full renovation. It is a cosmetic fix that can repair small imperfections or signs of ageing, such as rust, scratches, stains, and peeling paint. The terms "refinishing" and "reglazing" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different parts of the same process. Reglazing refers specifically to the application of a new epoxy coating, while refinishing refers to the entire process, including repairing small cracks and holes, sanding, glazing, and buffing the bathtub.

You can reglaze or refinish a bathtub yourself using a DIY kit available at many hardware stores. These kits typically include epoxy resin with hardener, etching powder, latex gloves, steel wool, a brush, cleaning solution, cleaner or thinner, safety goggles, and sometimes, even the tools you'll need, like goggles, gloves, a roller, and sandpaper. The epoxy coating usually comes in white or other basic colours, but if you're looking for something more creative, you may need to hire a professional who can customise the glaze colour.

Before you begin the process, it's important to prepare the area by taping protective sheets on the floor and walls and laying plastic sheeting over fixtures like the sink and toilet. Wear old clothes and put on a respirator to protect yourself from the paint fumes. Then, scrub and clean the damaged area with warm water, soap, and a sponge. You can also use acetone to clean the area and soften any caulk, making it easier to remove. Once the area is thoroughly dry, you can start applying the epoxy coating.

After you've finished applying the epoxy, it's important to let it dry completely. Wait for at least two to three hours, or follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time. Then, you can remove the tape and reattach any tub fixtures. Your bathtub will be good as new!

Frequently asked questions