Due to regular use, bathtubs eventually show signs of wear such as stains, pits, scratches, rust, and dullness. Those installed several decades ago may be an outdated color which needs modernizing. As a more affordable alternative to replacing the tub, refinishing can make it look like new again. When considering the option of bathtub refinishing West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, FL homeowners should learn what it involves.
Replacement of an entire bathtub unit is an extensive feat which can be costly and time-consuming for the homeowner. In most cases, complete replacement isn't even necessary, and if the main concern is improving the appearance of the tub, this can be accomplished quite cost-effectively by simply replacing the old finish with a new one.
Generally, reglazing, or refinishing a tub is a one-day job, and it will be ready for use after the required curing time of two to four days. The nature of this project involves handling materials and equipment that only an expert will safely know how to use, so it isn't suitable as a do-it-yourself endeavor.
While variations on the refinishing process do exist amongst companies and contractors, it basically consists of the same necessary stages. First, the bathroom area is prepared before the work is started to ensure that nothing will become damaged or soiled, and that harmful fumes and dust will not waft throughout the house, this is done with a system of fans and by draping the room in taped-down plastic sheeting.
In order to refinish a bathtub, the existing glazing will need to be removed using a stripping agent, and then sanded down. Before the new finish is applied, it will be necessary to repair any irregularities in the substrate of the tub such as chips and cracks with a polyester putty. Then a substance called "etching" will be applied to improve the porosity of the surface, followed by silane, an "adhesion promoting bonding agent".
A primer is applied next and once it is dry, the finish can be added. Most bathtub finishes are made from urethanes, epoxies, or polymers, and they are applied one layer at a time using sprayers as to avoid marks, each layer must dry fully. The final step is to apply a sealing top coat, and let it set for several days before using the tub.
If the work is not done well, certain problems may arise, most of which are the result of insufficient drying time between coats of finish, incomplete sanding or cleaning, or improper use of refinishing agents. Common issues which may be noted due to poor workmanship include a rough texture, air bubbles, fading, and a sticky feeling on the surface. When properly executed, a good refinish job should be flawless.
It is the customer's responsibility to ensure that the person or company they hire to refinish their bathtub possesses the skill needed to do a quality job. It's a good idea to compare several contractors and obtain a written estimate from each of them. During the hiring process, one should be sure to ask for references, verify insurance coverage, and inquire about the company's background check policies on workers if applicable.
Replacement of an entire bathtub unit is an extensive feat which can be costly and time-consuming for the homeowner. In most cases, complete replacement isn't even necessary, and if the main concern is improving the appearance of the tub, this can be accomplished quite cost-effectively by simply replacing the old finish with a new one.
Generally, reglazing, or refinishing a tub is a one-day job, and it will be ready for use after the required curing time of two to four days. The nature of this project involves handling materials and equipment that only an expert will safely know how to use, so it isn't suitable as a do-it-yourself endeavor.
While variations on the refinishing process do exist amongst companies and contractors, it basically consists of the same necessary stages. First, the bathroom area is prepared before the work is started to ensure that nothing will become damaged or soiled, and that harmful fumes and dust will not waft throughout the house, this is done with a system of fans and by draping the room in taped-down plastic sheeting.
In order to refinish a bathtub, the existing glazing will need to be removed using a stripping agent, and then sanded down. Before the new finish is applied, it will be necessary to repair any irregularities in the substrate of the tub such as chips and cracks with a polyester putty. Then a substance called "etching" will be applied to improve the porosity of the surface, followed by silane, an "adhesion promoting bonding agent".
A primer is applied next and once it is dry, the finish can be added. Most bathtub finishes are made from urethanes, epoxies, or polymers, and they are applied one layer at a time using sprayers as to avoid marks, each layer must dry fully. The final step is to apply a sealing top coat, and let it set for several days before using the tub.
If the work is not done well, certain problems may arise, most of which are the result of insufficient drying time between coats of finish, incomplete sanding or cleaning, or improper use of refinishing agents. Common issues which may be noted due to poor workmanship include a rough texture, air bubbles, fading, and a sticky feeling on the surface. When properly executed, a good refinish job should be flawless.
It is the customer's responsibility to ensure that the person or company they hire to refinish their bathtub possesses the skill needed to do a quality job. It's a good idea to compare several contractors and obtain a written estimate from each of them. During the hiring process, one should be sure to ask for references, verify insurance coverage, and inquire about the company's background check policies on workers if applicable.
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