Bathtub Refinishing Process

Bathtub Refinishing is a relatively new process. The refinishing industry has really only been in existence for about 30 years. During this time, the materials used to refinish a bathtub have not changed that dramatically, nor have the steps changed that are utilized by a technician to prepare a tub for refinishing. Aliphatic Acrylic Urethanes have always been the choice for the topcoat; epoxy was always the choice for the primer.

Thanks to new technology, today’s Urethanes are a much better product than before. The blend of Silane primers used by Mr. Refinish and all PBRA members have superior adhesion properties when compared to epoxy.

New Technology

Adhesion Promoter

Bonding agents are basically a type of “super glue”. When this “super glue” is applied to the surface of the bathtub, the new coating will be chemically fused to the surface of the bathtub. This process has proven to be the best method to allow coatings to adhere to the surface and is less likely to peel.

Old Technology

New steel bathtub

Hydrofluoric Acid was used to “etch” or rough up the surface of the bathtub which would then help the coatings to stick to the porcelain bathtub or tile. If this material is mishandled it can cause damage to fixtures, floor tile or burns to the skin of the technician.

The Process

The bathtub is scrubbed clean with a powerful detergent that will remove any soap film build-up or residual film left behind by household cleaners.
The tub is rinsed and dried completely using a high temperature heat gun to remove all moisture.
Paper & Plastic masking is installed around the tub to prevent overspray from getting on the tiles. Other areas of the bathroom will be masked off with plastic if necessary.
Bonding agent is applied to the surface of the tub.
Slip resistant surface is applied to the floor of the tub.
High Gloss Acrylic Urethane topcoat is applied.

A ventilator is used which helps remove overspray and fumes from the bathroom area. This piece of equipment is placed in the window of the bathroom. If there is no window, a hose is attached and directed to the nearest window or door. All materials are applied using an HVLP spray system.