Rust stains occur when iron in your tap water oxidizes and clings to the surface of your sinks and tubs. The telltale orange stains are common in areas that have a lot of iron in the water, and if you use bleach-based cleaners, you can actually make the stains even worse. If you’re experiencing a rusted bathtub in Phoenix, AZ, here’s how to clean and prevent rust stains.
Cleaning rust stains
There are two all-natural ways to get rid of rust stains in your bathtubs and sinks. First, lemon and salt make a highly-effective cleaning combo: squeeze lemon juice over the stains to dampen them, then sprinkle regular table or kosher salt over the stains. Allow to sit for several hours, then gently clean with a fresh microfiber cloth. Rinse clean to remove any lingering lemon juice or salt.
You can achieve similar results using baking soda and water. Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water together (it should be thick and hold its shape, similar to arts and crafts paste), then apply it to the rust stains. Let the mixture sit overnight, then use a clean cloth to wipe the stains away. Rinse and repeat if needed.
If neither of these methods works, try using a little elbow grease and a cleaning screen, available at most hardware stores, to get the job done. It’s slightly more abrasive then scrubbing sponges and will help remove any remaining rust. Oxalic acid can also remove the rust stains, although it is not natural like the other solutions.
Preventing rust stains
Now that you’ve gotten rid of the rust, here are some steps you can take toward rust stain prevention in Phoenix, AZ:
Install a water softener or purifier: The most effective way of getting rust stains out of your bathtubs is to eliminate the iron altogether. Installing a water softener or purifier that’s designed to remove iron will solve the problem at its source and provide the most long-lasting results.
Rinse and wipe down your tub after each use: You can keep your tub clean by making sure to rinse down its walls and sides after each use, then wiping them down with a towel. This helps remove any iron residue, even if you can’t see it in the water.
Don’t store metal in the tub: Do you have metal cans or other metal tools sitting around in your shower or bathtub? This can leave behind rings and other rusty remnants. Store your metal cans and items in a cabinet that will protect the metal from humidity.
Clean your bathtub once a week: Finally, cleaning your bathtub at least once weekly will go a long way toward eliminating rust buildup. If you notice stains starting to form, use one of the methods above to remove them—it will be easier the earlier you catch them. And remember, never use bleach.
If your tub is too far gone, call A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., LLC. We can refinish your rusted porcelain and fiberglass tubs and sinks in Phoenix, AZ so they look brand new.
An issue with plumbing is one of the problems that we see DIY enthusiasts tackle all the time. These problems can range from a slow drip in a shower to an outside hose spigot that needs some extra lubrication to get it moving again after some time lying dormant. Plumbing jobs of any real complexity or risk should of course be left to pros like those at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C., but for the most part you’ll be surprised at the range of faucet problems in Phoenix, AZ you can tackle all on your own to get your water back up and running smoothly in no time at all. Below we’ve outlined some of the common issues that customers run into and how they can be best addressed with some basic tools and maintenance.
Clogs can cause issues
One of the main problems that we see customers run into is a clogged faucet in Phoenix, AZ that’s causing big issues in their water output. One of the problems that can sometimes be attributed to this is low water pressure. Many homes just have low water pressure to begin with, but if that’s never been an issue, and now suddenly is, a clog could be the culprit.
Start by looking at the piece called the diverter valve, which controls the water going into the faucet. Over time, this can get clogged with mineral buildup or small debris, so cleaning it out could solve the problem. If it doesn’t, then you might need a new diverter. The other issue that clogging can cause is a mist spraying out of your faucet, which a sign that the aerator needs to be cleaned out. Freeing the faucet of mineral and debris buildup can help this flow smoothly again.
Handle leaks
Leaks coming from the handles at your sink are another faucet problem in Phoenix, AZ that we frequently see customers reporting. There are a few fixes to this that we encourage people to try. You can first take a shot at tightening the packing nut at the handle, or alternatively we find that a lot of the time a damaged O-ring is the culprit and needs to be replaced. Replacing an O-ring is a bit of a job, but one that can be handled by many DIY enthusiasts. If you’re feeling like it might be outside of your comfort zone, then give our team of professional technicians a call and we can have it replaced for you in no time at all.
Dripping from the spout
It’s probably the most common faucet problem in Phoenix, AZ: that dripping from a faucet that can keep you up at night. Usually you will need to replace the valve seat, as well as the seat washer if you have a compression style faucet. If not, then it’ll likely just be a valve seat replacement that’s in order.
Some of the most common faucet problems can be easily handled by homeowners themselves—you’d be surprised at how much you can take on once you start taking a look “under the hood.” For anything more complex than this, or if you just want an expert’s opinion, give A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. a call. We’d be glad to help you fix your faucet!
Getting new faucets in Phoenix, AZ, especially to set off a new or refinished tub or shower, is an easy way to update the look of your home at relatively minimal expense. But it’s not as simple as rushing to the hardware store and grabbing the first and cheapest option you spot.
Choosing the right metal
As tempting as it might be to go with a cheaper model, if you’re looking for something that will last, you’ll need to go for at least a mid-priced option. While cheaper finishes might look nice initially, they can flake and bubble, making them difficult to keep clean for very long.
Solid brass faucets are the most expensive, but they’re also the most durable. If you have hard water, a solid brass faucet won’t corrode as quickly as other metals. The next best choice is die-cast zinc alloy, but be aware that eventually it will corrode and the plating will wear off.
Generally, plastic and other similar materials are a bad choice for faucets, even if the low prices seem tempting. The finish doesn’t bond to the base as well as it does with brass or zinc, and they can break far easier.
Sink faucets
If you’re only replacing your faucet in Phoenix, AZ, it’s important to measure the existing holes for the sink to make sure your replacement will fit properly. Generally, stick with the basic style you already have (double handled, single handled, etc.).
You’ll also want to choose between valves. Compression valves are easy to access and repair if there’s a leak, whereas ceramic disk valves are considered the best option if possible. Sleeve cartridge valves are the easiest to repair, while ball valves are more complex (although still an inexpensive repair overall). The warranty is often the best indication of how long you can expect your sink valve to last.
Bathtub and shower faucets
Finally, bathtub and shower faucets should also stick with the same general layout you already have. Depending on the type of tub you have, the faucets and handles may be installed in the tub itself, on the rim or mounted on the wall.
There are many options to choose from, including multiple showerheads, detachable heads and hoses and even adjustable-height showerheads. Many manufacturers make options where two heads come from the spout, but if you want separate jets, you’ll have to add more plumbing lines.
Finally, look for temperature shock options that keep you from getting blasted with cold water when someone flushes the toilet.
Get new faucets in Phoenix, AZ
Why get new faucets when the rest of your bathroom fixtures look old and dingy? A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. repairs and refinishes tubs, tiles, sinks and vanities so that your fixtures will look as great as your new faucets in Phoenix, AZ, all for a fraction of the cost of what it would be to replace everything. With over 40 years of experience, we’re sure to be able to handle your improvements. Get in touch with us today to find out more about what we can do for you,.
Refinishing your bathtub and shower is a low-cost way to enhance the beauty of your bathroom, but like any remodeling project, it takes time and care to get the job done right. That includes drying and curing time, which can have a massive effect on the quality of your results. The number one question our team gets after a bathtub refinishing project is, “How long will it be before I can use my bathtub or shower again?” Read on to learn more about bathtub refinishing and the duration of time you’ll have to wait before enjoying your Phoenix, AZ investment.
Preparing for refinishing
When you decide to refinish your bathroom fixtures, call your contractor as soon as possible to get on their schedule—expect at least a seven- to 10-day wait period. During that time, clean your bathroom as much as possible to minimize dirt and debris that may fall during the refinishing process.
How long to wait afterwards
A typical bathtub refinishing project only takes a few hours to complete. Your bathtub contractor will strip the current finish and address any deeper damage that may be present. At that point, it will be ready for the reglazing process.
After bathtub refinishing in Phoenix, AZ, most contractors will tell you that it’s okay to use your tub within 24 to 48 hours. This is because the glaze needs enough time to dry fully, so standing or sitting in the tub won’t ruin the smooth surface or allow any debris to lodge itself into the glaze. However, the glaze itself won’t fully cure (harden) for seven to 10 days. That means it’s imperative that you prevent objects like bottles, razors and bath toys from falling into the tub or dropping them while you’re in the shower—it could permanently damage your brand-new finish.
After seven to 10 days, the glaze will be fully hardened and you’ll be able to use your tub normally, although it’s advisable to exercise the same level of caution anyway.
It’s important to note that during the 24- to 48-hour drying time, you must not clean your bathtub. The chemicals from bathtub cleaners as well as the act of scrubbing could damage the finish, requiring you to start the entire process over again.
When you have a bathtub or shower refinished, your technician will leave you with a set of care instructions designed specifically for the finish and fixtures you chose. Be sure to follow them to the letter to maximize your results. Of course, if you have any questions about the procedure, be sure to ask your contractor. They’ll be happy to help, and you’ll minimize any potential damage.
Bathtub refinishing in Phoenix, AZ
A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. is your source for bathroom, shower and vanity refinishing in Phoenix, AZ. Instead of replacing your bathroom fixtures, refinish your porcelain or fiberglass so it looks as good as new. We can help you extend the lifespan of your bathroom for a fraction of the cost. Let us put our 45 years of experience to use when you call us for a refinishing quote today.
If you’ve ever stepped into your shower or bath only to notice that a crack is developing along the floor, you might be tempted to ignore it. However, overlooking this problem could lead to much worse damage down the line. Whether you’re noticing fiberglass cracks or another type of shower base is cracking in Phoenix, AZ, you should consider calling for professional repair as soon as possible.
Why your shower or bathtub is cracking
Showers and baths are commonly made of either porcelain or fiberglass. Fiberglass is a highly porous and flexible material that can bend over time, especially if you stand in the same place to shower each day. Porcelain is more prone to cracking from heavy objects being dropped on its surface, or the use of heavy-duty abrasive cleaners. You should pay careful attention to any dings or divots in your porcelain tub, as they can degrade over time into full-on cracks.
There are two types of cracks: stress fractures and hairline cracks. Stress fractures develop when you drop a heavy object on your bathtub or shower floor, whereas hairline cracks are from repeated abuse over time. Both are simple enough to patch if you catch them in time, typically with premade kits from your local hardware store.
Professional repair or DIY?
When should you turn to the pros for your shower and bathtub repair? When your shower or bathtub is showing signs of heavy wear, including multiple cracks, it’s smart to either replace your tub or call in a professional shower and tub refinisher, like A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. The service will cost more than a simple DIY job, but it comes with the added benefits of professional expertise as well as advice on how to properly maintain your bathtub and shower in the future.
Professional repair and refinishing should be able to return your tub to a “like-new” condition, depending on the extent of the damage. If your bathroom’s appearance is important to you or if you need to be absolutely sure your bathtub won’t further crack and leak, then you should opt for a professional repair.
DIY kits can get the job done, too. They come with an agent to seal and fill the crack, or repaint the surface. However, you do run the risk of a poor color match or mistakes in application, as with any DIY repair project. We recommend using DIY kits if you can catch small cracks fast, but anything bigger should be left to the pros.
Repair your fiberglass shower cracks in Phoenix, AZ
The team at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. can repair and refinish your bathtub, shower, sink, vanity and tiles so your bathroom looks brand-new—with no messy demolition and expensive replacement work required. For over 40 years, we have worked hard to restore our customers’ bathtubs and showers so they look like new. Call us today to discuss your refinishing needs and to get a quote. We look forward to assisting you soon.
