Bathtub Refinishing Tips for Any Type of Bathtub Material

When moving into a new place, unfortunately, you do not get to choose the kind of bathtub you will get in your new home. You have the options of replacing, repairing, or refinishing the bathtub in your home if it has some kind of damage or if you simply do not like how it looks. Bathtub replacement is more costly of an option while bathtub refinishing allows you to upgrade your tub’s surface and you save significantly on the overall costs.

One of the benefits of bathtub refinishing is that it is suitable for any kind of bathtub material, be it a porcelain, acrylic, fiberglass, or cultured marble bathtub. All these materials have different individual features which are why you should always hire a professional to do all the work. It is easy to make mistakes on your own and you could end up ruining your bathtub because you did not have all the knowledge. So here are the refinishing options and cleaning requirements for various kinds of bathtub materials.

Cast Iron

This bathtub material makes the heaviest tubs weighing at about 200 to 300 pounds. On the upside, these tubs are the most durable. They are made by pouring the molten iron into a tub mold and putting an enamel layer over it. They often have a lifetime warranty making them good value for your money but they can be restrictive in terms of accessories and styles. Refinishing a cast iron tub means first dealing with any damage to it by eliminating rust and filling cracks before etching the surface, applying primer and then sealing it with an acrylic polyurethane enamel coat.

Porcelain on Steel

This bathtub material makes the cheapest tub option meaning they are usually installed in new homes for high profits at a low cost. On the other hand, they are very susceptible to scratching if they are scrubbed too frequently. You need to clean them with mild, non-abrasive cleaners, soft sponges, or soft cloths. This porcelain on steel bathtub refinishing requires a professional with experience in the same. The refinishing process is the same as that of recoating using resin but you need to have the proper knowledge of the techniques and materials for the most durable and long-lasting results.

Fiberglass

This bathtub material is commonly used due to its lightness and cost-friendliness. Fiberglass bathtubs are quite easy to install and they are easier to alter in comparison to the other bathtub materials. The surface is usually coated with resin, which is meant to be scratch resistant but harsh cleaners may still damage it. When removing mildew or soap scum, ensure you only use mild and non-abrasive cleaners. Fiberglass bathtubs are prone to chipping or cracking and such damage should be attended to before applying a new resin coat when refinishing. Preparing accordingly ensures that the resin coating applied sticks to the tub and does not start chipping or peeling off in some years. Fiberglass bathtub refinishing is a great way to save a ton of money.

Acrylic

Acrylic bathtubs offer the same advantages as fiberglass tubs do but they are more costly. These bathtubs might have thinner surfaces on some areas, which may tend to break or crack. Acrylic bathtubs are refinished in the same way as fiberglass bathtubs due to the similar resin coating. Bathtub refinishing for acrylic tubs takes a short time and your bathtub will look good as new afterward.

Regardless of your bathtub, refinishing is an amazing service and offers you unmatched value. Whether your tub is damaged or just unsightly to you, refinishing is the best solution for you.