The Perfect Non-Epoxy Paint For Your Shower Surround

Painting a shower surround is a great way to refresh your bathroom on a budget. While two-part epoxy paint is a popular choice for this project due to its durability, there are non-epoxy alternatives available, such as fiberglass paint or marine paint. Before painting, it's important to carefully prepare the surface by cleaning, sanding, and applying primer. Once the surface is prepared, you can apply your chosen paint with a brush or roller, ensuring a smooth and even coat. After the final coat, allow the paint to cure for at least 72 hours before using the shower.

Clean the shower surround

To prepare your shower surround for painting, you must first ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned. Deep clean the surface of the shower surround, removing any old caulk with a utility knife or a caulk removal tool. This step is important as it ensures a smooth painting process.

Next, use 220-grit or 400-grit sandpaper to sand the entire surface. Sanding will roughen the surface, allowing the paint to bond effectively. Be sure to wipe away all the dust particles with a tack cloth. Even tiny bits of dust can create imperfections in the finish.

If you are using epoxy paint, it is recommended to remove metal drains and hardware using the necessary screwdrivers and plumbing tools. Faucets do not need to be removed, but escutcheon plates and cover plates should be taken off, and tub spouts should be removed to provide access to all surfaces.

Before painting, it is crucial to ensure the area is well-ventilated by opening windows or using fans. Epoxy paints emit strong fumes, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding ventilation and the use of respirator gear.

Sand the surface

Sanding the surface of your shower surround is an important step in preparing it for a new coat of non-epoxy paint. This process helps to create a rough surface, allowing the new paint to adhere effectively and create a smooth and durable finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to sand the surface:

• Clean the shower surround thoroughly: Before you begin sanding, ensure that the surface is clean and free of any dirt, grime, or residue. Use a bathroom cleaner and a sponge to scrub the area. This step is crucial as any leftover dirt or moisture can interfere with your paint job.
• Choose the right sandpaper: For sanding shower surrounds, it is recommended to use fine-grit sandpaper, such as 220- or 400-grit sandpaper. This type of sandpaper will create a slightly rough texture without causing excessive scratching or damage to the surface.
• Start sanding: Using the chosen sandpaper, sand the entire surface of the shower surround. Apply even pressure and work in smooth, consistent motions. Pay attention to corners, edges, and curved areas, as these areas may require more attention.
• Wipe away dust: After sanding, use a tack cloth or a damp cloth to thoroughly wipe away all dust particles and residue. This step is crucial, as even tiny bits of dust can create imperfections in your final painted finish. Make sure the surface is completely free of dust before proceeding.
• Remove caulk: Use a utility knife or a caulk removal tool to remove any caulk or sealant around the edges, drains, spouts, and the showerhead. This will ensure a neat and professional finish when you apply the new paint.
• Tape off surrounding areas: Use painter's tape to cover and protect any areas that you don't want to paint, such as edges, drains, spouts, and the showerhead. This will help create crisp lines and prevent paint from getting on unwanted surfaces.

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when sanding, as the process can create dust. Once you've completed these steps, your shower surround will be properly prepared for the next steps, which may include priming and painting, depending on the specific non-epoxy paint you plan to use.

Tape the edges

Painting a shower surround is a great way to renew your shower on a budget. The process requires careful and thorough preparation, but the results can be stunning. One key step in the preparation process is taping the edges.

Before you start painting, it is important to clean the shower surround thoroughly. Use a bathroom cleaner and a sponge to remove any dirt or grime. Once the surface is clean, sand the entire area with sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe away any dust particles with a tack cloth, ensuring there are no remaining particles as these can create imperfections in the finish.

The next step is to tape off the edges and any areas you want to protect from paint. Use painter's tape, also known as masking tape, to cover the edges of your tub or shower stall. This will ensure that you get clean, straight lines along the edges of your paint job. The tape will also protect the taped-off areas from any accidental paint splatters or drips.

Apply the tape carefully and smoothly to the edges, ensuring that it is firmly adhered to the surface. You may also want to cover any metal parts within your tub or shower to protect them from paint. This includes taping off any drains, spouts, and the showerhead.

After taping, you may proceed with the next steps in the painting process, such as applying a primer or mixing your paint. Once the paint is ready, you can start painting, being careful not to get paint on the taped-off areas.

Finally, after you have finished painting and allowed the paint to dry, you can remove the painter's tape. It is important to wait until the paint is fully dry to ensure that you do not pull up any paint along with the tape. Removing the tape will reveal clean, crisp edges to your paint job.

Mix the paint

When preparing to paint a shower surround, the paint-mixing process is crucial. It ensures your paint will adhere effectively and creates a smooth, even finish. Here is a detailed guide on how to mix the paint for your shower surround project:

First, ensure you have chosen the appropriate paint for your shower surround. If you are painting a fibreglass shower surround, select a paint that is specifically designed for fibreglass surfaces. Some paints, like Rust-Oleum's "Specialty Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit", are formulated to fill in small cracks and provide a durable finish. You can also consider using marine paint, which is an epoxy-based paint commonly used on fibreglass boats. However, some sources advise against using marine paint in showers due to potential issues with hot water causing bubbling and peeling.

Once you have selected the appropriate paint, ensure you have adequate safety gear, especially if working with epoxy-based paints, as the fumes can be intense. Open nearby windows or set up fans to ventilate the area.

Now, you can begin the process of mixing the paint. Start by pouring Part A of the epoxy paint into Part B. This ensures that the thinner top layer and thicker bottom layer blend properly. Use a mixing implement, such as a paint stirrer or a mixing drill bit, and mix the two parts thoroughly for at least five minutes. Don't be concerned if the mixture appears watery; this is normal.

After mixing, you may need to thin the paint slightly to achieve the desired consistency for spraying or rolling. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for thinning the paint, as different paints may have specific requirements. Once you have adjusted the consistency, mix the paint again to ensure it is thoroughly combined.

Finally, before beginning your painting project, test the paint mixture on a small, inconspicuous area of the shower surround. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and that you are satisfied with the colour and finish. Allow the test area to dry completely, then evaluate the results. If you notice any issues, such as uneven coverage or paint dripping, adjust your technique or consult a professional for advice.

Apply the paint

Once the shower area is fully prepared, it's time to apply the paint. The paint should be applied at a temperature between 50 and 90 degrees and at a humidity level below 85 percent. Make sure the area is well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans. Epoxy paint emits strong fumes, so it is recommended to use respirator gear during this process.

For the application, you can use a high-quality fine-bristle varnish brush or a 1/4-inch-nap roller. Brush in one direction to ensure a smooth surface, and feather the edges to avoid hard lines between brush or roller strokes. Avoid excessive brushing and rolling—the goal is a smooth, even coat. Don't worry about thick coverage with the first coat.

When painting, work from the bottom up, paying extra attention to the tub's curves and textured nonslip bottom. Use a foam brush for tight corners and rounded areas. Finish by painting the top lip of the tub to avoid leaning over wet paint. Two coats should be enough, but a third coat may be necessary if the shower is in poor condition.

Allow the first coat of paint to dry for at least an hour, then apply the second coat and let it dry overnight. Clean the brushes with isopropyl alcohol. If you need to apply a third coat, mix a new batch of paint and apply it after the second coat has dried.

Frequently asked questions