Can I change the colors of my bathtub?

Over time, a bathtub loses its gloss and cleanliness, being subject to hard water, scuff marks, brown stains, and discoloration. A sure way to bring it back to its prime condition is to repaint it. Yes, changing the color of the bathtub is allowed, but you have to follow a special guideline. Read on to get an insight into the process of applying a fresh coat of paint to the bathtub.

(For more articles like this, click here: How can I change the look of my bathtub?)

Step 1. Prepare the tub

No matter how fast you want to see your tub repainted and shiny again, there is some work to do before starting to apply the paint. You have to take your time to remove the old sealant which may reduce the adherence of the new coat of paint. Dirt and grease also make it hard for the paint to adhere. That’s why you have to clean the tub thoroughly ensuring no residual grime continues to be on it.

Step 2. Roughen the tub surface

After cleaning, you are good to roughen a bit the surface of the tub. The paint may not adhere so well on a perfectly smooth and glossy surface. To improve the paint’s grip, sand the bathtub using high-quality sandpaper. Sanding will not only improve adherence but will provide a long-lasting bond between the paint and the tub which will prevent premature peeling off and color fading. Apply moderate force to avoid creating deep scratches that would be visible even after applying the paint. Once you are done with sanding, wipe down the tub to remove the particles of dust.

Step 3. Protect the floor and tub hardware

Paint dripping is a common event during any painting job. That’s why you lay down some newspaper or any other relevant coverage on the floor to protect it from staining. Also, you are good to cover the tub’s hardware, plugging holes and edges with masking tape. This will prevent awkward paint marks that significantly steal from the tub’s appeal giving the impression of a mess.

Step 4. Wear the protective equipment

Don’t forget to wear protective equipment before starting to paint. The respirator and the rubber gloves will keep your respiratory system and skin safe. Wearing clothes with long sleeves will add additional protection to your skin.

Step 5. Apply the paint

Now that all preparation work is done, you can focus on the refinishing kit. Mix the paint and start to apply it as the product instructions suggest. Avoid rushing and better work with a small section at a time to ensure an even application. Leave the paint to dry as you finish applying the first coat. The drying may take several hours, so make patience with your best friend and avoid applying the second coat while the first one is still wet.

Once the first layer has completely dried, get the roller and proceed with the application of the second layer. Applying paint for the second time is highly important because it adds consistency and opacity to the color. Finish up with a new coat of sealant. Allow 3 days for the paint and sealant to dry before using the tub again.