Refinishing your bathtub is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to restore your tub’s beauty. Over time, bathtubs can chip, crack and discolor. You might have issues with permanent stains, or simply notice that it looks dull and dingy. Bathtub reglazing can add years to your tub’s lifespan in Phoenix, AZ. As long as you properly maintain your tub, it will look brand new for years.

How reglazing works

When you have your bathtub refinished, your refinishing specialists will strip the old tub of its former glaze. This is usually performed using hydrofluoric acid. It’s followed by rinsing the tub and sanding it down, which produces a smooth surface for the new glaze. Your bathtub contractor will remove any remaining dirt, fill in chips and cracks and wipe the tub down once more.

Once the tub is prepared, it’s time to reglaze. This usually requires several coats of epoxy, followed by a topcoat. When the topcoat is dry, the tub is polished to a high shine. Typically, the entire process takes about a day, and you can use your tub 24 to 48 hours later.

How long it will last

How long your finish lasts depends on whether you work with a professional, the materials they use and how well you maintain your tub. Avoid using DIY kits to refinish your bathtub—they might look nice at first, but usually start peeling or chipping within a year.

Professional reglazing may last up to 15 years, although most professional companies offer warranties for three to five years. If you’re planning to sell your home or just want to put off installing a new tub, bathtub refinishing is an economical choice in Phoenix, AZ.

Maintenance after reglazing

To maximize your new finish’s lifespan, you’ll need to be careful and maintain the surface regularly. Keep heavy objects out of your shower and tub area, like large shampoo bottles, toys and other items that could damage the tub if dropped. You should also avoid bathtub mats with suction cups on the bottom, as they can tear the glossy finish.

Cleaning your tub regularly also helps—but make sure you avoid abrasive cleaners and brushes. Never use steel wool, bleach or cleanser on your tub. This will damage the topcoat and make your bathtub more susceptible to stains and discoloration.

Instead, use gentle, bleach-free cleaners and a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth. Scrub your tub every week (or more often, as needed), and follow up with a urethane polish every six months.

When you work with professionals and use the right care and maintenance, your refinished bathtub could hold on for over a decade. That’s a lot cheaper than paying to remove and replace it with a brand-new tub.

Interested in learning more about bathtub reglazing in Phoenix, AZ? A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. can reglaze your fiberglass or porcelain tub to restore its original beauty. Let us help transform your bathroom on a budget—call today to get a quote.