Consider Refinishing Your Porcelain Sink Rather Than Replacing It

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If you have a porcelain sink that has been chipped, cracked or stained, you don’t necessarily have to replace it! This is a costly and messy process that can be quite inconvenient for you as a homeowner. If your sink is unique or complex in any way, you might also be reluctant to remove it.

Fortunately, there are ways you can bring your porcelain sink back to life and keep it looking great for years to come. Here are some step-by-step instructions for sink and vanity refinishing in Glendale, AZ to keep your sink looking good for the long haul:

  • Clean the sink: Before you get started with any other tasks, clean the sink thoroughly with an abrasive cleaner and a pad, then rinse and dry.
  • Prep the area: Mark off the area surrounding the sink with painter’s tape and plastic sheets to protect it from debris. Then, you can remove the drain from the sink and detach the pipe drain. Unscrew the nut below the sink that holds the metal drain and flange in place, and push up from below to loosen the drain from the plumber’s putty that was used to make a seal between the sink and the flange. You might need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry around the rim of the drain on order to be able to free it from its position.
  • Remove putty and caulk: Using a putty knife, remove all the caulk and plumber’s putty from the sink. You should hold the knife at about a 45-degree angle to the material you are removing.
  • Scrub: Use a hard water deposit remover and scrub the sink with your abrasive pad. Get rid of all hard water deposits. You should make sure to wear rubber gloves and goggles during this process.
  • Sand: Once you’ve removed hard water deposits, you can begin sanding the sink with a wet-dry sandpaper at 400 to 600 grits. Buff the surface in small circles. Creating this abrasion will allow the epoxy to better stick to the sink. Remove all sanding residue when complete.
  • Mix the epoxy: Mix the two-part epoxy following the directions on the packaging. Pour that mixture into a paint tray, and while wearing a rebreather mask, prepare to apply.
  • Apply the epoxy: Using a fine-bristle varnish brush or nap roller, begin applying the epoxy to the sink. Try not to overlap too much. Wait at least an hour, then apply a second coat. You should let the epoxy dry and set for three days before reassembling and using the sink. At that point you can clean it with rubbing alcohol.

This gives you a general idea of the processes used for refinishing a sink. For more information about sink and vanity refinishing in Glendale, AZ, contact the team at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service LLC today and we would be more than happy to provide you with some tips for how you can manage your specific bathroom circumstances.