I have been asked many times in my 35 years as a coatings developer about bathtub refinishing, bathtub reglazing, bathtub resurfacing and ceramic tile refinishing. Let me start off by saying that there is no difference between bathtub refinishing, bathtub resurfacing, bathtub painting or bathtub reglazing they are the same. The main question that people ask is "does it work?"

The answer is yes and no. Bathtub refinishing is based on sound chemistry and meticulous preparation. Bathtub refinishing failure and success is about people skill and product quality. The people part is whether the technician has any real tried and proven experience. When you are dealing with a bathtub refinishing franchise operation you will often find that the technician has probably gone through a crash course in the process. It is very difficult to learn all there is to know and also become proficient in the physical application in a one or two week period.

Some of the aspects of refinishing can have some pretty serious consequences if not done properly. This is why it is important to be informed about bathtub refinishing before you decide.

See a copy of a field procedure sheet used by tub refinishing technicians.

Bathtub Refinishers use an acid etching agent to make the bathtub porous so that the paint will bond to the bathtub surface. (A note about etching: Some companies claim to have a process that does not require physical acid etching because the etching agent is contained in the coating or paint. These types of paints or coatings are inferior in their ability to bond ). This part of the process should employ a portable ventilating system which will exhaust the fumes outside the home. The etching solution usually contains hydrofluoric, phosphoric or hydrochloric acid. Acids may damage other surfaces if accidentally spilled or dripped onto them. Another key concern is the potential harm to pets and family if any of the spillage contacts the skin.

The bathtub refinisher then has to gear up for the refinishing coating or paint application which is usually sprayed on (I wouldn't trust someone who claims to use a roller or brush to apply the finish). The coatings are hazardous to breathe and people with asthma or respiratory conditions are quite vulnerable to exposure of these types of materials. Unfortunately, most of the water borne coatings are not adequate for the moist environment in a bathtub and this leaves the refinisher with few choices when it comes to coatings that will work.

Types of coatings: Automotive coatings, paints and primers are usually not the best choice for bathtub refinishing but are commonly used and are typically re-labeled as " bathtub porcelain coating" and primer. The most effective are high solids aircraft coatings and primers but these are usually the most hazardous to use during application. Epoxies paints and coatings have good adhesion and moisture resistance but can yellow over time.

Ceramic Tile and Bathtub Refinishing DIY Kits

I personally don't recommend DIY bathtub refinishing or tile refinishing kits due to the high failure rate and hazards associated with application. Once they begin to peel you have a big problem. The failed finish has to be stripped before refinishing again and if you have a professional bathtub refinisher do it the overall job cost will increase.

The average life span of a refinished bathtub is (automotive paint) 1 to 3 years depending on use. High solids aliphatic polyurethane coatings are typically used on commercial aircraft and when applied properly onto bathtubs and ceramic tile will last up to 10 years. These types of coatings require a greater level of skill to apply and are not for the novice refinisher which is why many refinishers prefer the automotive acrylic paint because of it's user friendliness. The acrylic paint looks like a million dollars right after the refinisher collects your payment. Unfortunately, you are lucky if it maintains its beauty for more than 1 year.

The failure rate of tile and bathtub refinishing companies is almost as high as restaurants and for this reason I usually do not recommend using a company that had been in business for less than 5 years.

Choosing a Refinishing Company.

Find qualified refinishing companies

There are several things to consider when deciding which refinishing company to use:

How long has the company been in business.

How does the company deal with toxic fumes.

How many bathtubs has your scheduled bathtub refinishing crew completed.

Get references from customers that had their bathtub refinished early in the company's beginning..

Bathtub Refinishing and tub reglazing standards and ethical guidelines