Typically subjected to many years of use, bathtubs eventually begin to show signs of aging such as dullness, rust marks, scratches, and pits. In older homes, tubs may be colors that are no longer popular and need a more modern look. The easiest way to quickly make any tub look like new, is to refinish it. If they are thinking of bathtub refinishing West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, FL residents should find this guide to be informative.
Completely replacing a tub takes long to finish, and can also end up costing the homeowner a substantial amount of money. Reglazing or refinishing is a much simpler process which removes the dull, damaged finish and replaces it with a fresh, shiny coat of glazing for a fraction of the cost.
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.
The process may vary slightly from one contractor or company to the next, but it basically includes the same required steps, the first of which is to properly prepare the site for the work to be done. The bathroom will be covered in heavy plastic sheeting and taped down, and a fan or other exhaust system will be set up to keep the room ventilated and to prevent dust and spray fumes from infiltrating the rest of the house as much as possible.
The existing finish will then be removed completely using chemicals which are stripping agents, and then it will be sanded. Chips and cracks in the substrate will then be repaired with polyester putty, and two substances will then be applied; etching to add porosity to the surface, and silane to promote adhesion of the finish.
Then a primer is applied and allowed to dry to ready the surface for the new glazing. Finishes used on bathtubs can be made from polymers, epoxies, or urethanes, and for best results, they are sprayed on layer by layer, allowing for full drying after each application. Finally, a sealing top coat will be added, and in several days' time, the tub can be used.
Poor workmanship can lead to numerous problems with the refinishing job. Examples of this include a rough finish, air bubbles on the surface, stickiness, or fading. These issues result due to incomplete sanding or cleaning, not allowing each coat of finish to dry, and incorrect use of refinishing agents. If done properly however, the new finish should look flawless.
Customers need to ensure that they will be satisfied with their newly refinished tub. This means hiring a competent professional contractor or company with sufficient experience and skill. The best way to make sure of this is to request references, inquire about background checks on workers, and confirm insurance coverage. Customers should always ask for a written estimate, and ideally compare several to make the best choice.
Completely replacing a tub takes long to finish, and can also end up costing the homeowner a substantial amount of money. Reglazing or refinishing is a much simpler process which removes the dull, damaged finish and replaces it with a fresh, shiny coat of glazing for a fraction of the cost.
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.
The process may vary slightly from one contractor or company to the next, but it basically includes the same required steps, the first of which is to properly prepare the site for the work to be done. The bathroom will be covered in heavy plastic sheeting and taped down, and a fan or other exhaust system will be set up to keep the room ventilated and to prevent dust and spray fumes from infiltrating the rest of the house as much as possible.
The existing finish will then be removed completely using chemicals which are stripping agents, and then it will be sanded. Chips and cracks in the substrate will then be repaired with polyester putty, and two substances will then be applied; etching to add porosity to the surface, and silane to promote adhesion of the finish.
Then a primer is applied and allowed to dry to ready the surface for the new glazing. Finishes used on bathtubs can be made from polymers, epoxies, or urethanes, and for best results, they are sprayed on layer by layer, allowing for full drying after each application. Finally, a sealing top coat will be added, and in several days' time, the tub can be used.
Poor workmanship can lead to numerous problems with the refinishing job. Examples of this include a rough finish, air bubbles on the surface, stickiness, or fading. These issues result due to incomplete sanding or cleaning, not allowing each coat of finish to dry, and incorrect use of refinishing agents. If done properly however, the new finish should look flawless.
Customers need to ensure that they will be satisfied with their newly refinished tub. This means hiring a competent professional contractor or company with sufficient experience and skill. The best way to make sure of this is to request references, inquire about background checks on workers, and confirm insurance coverage. Customers should always ask for a written estimate, and ideally compare several to make the best choice.
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