Painting a bathtub may seem an uphill task for those who are unaware of the little tricks associated with it. But if you learn this art you may give a new life to your container and keep enjoying it for a few more years. So, why not prefer the other way round than feel sorry and fret.
Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
Time required: 36 Hrs Approx.
Estimated cost: $ 100-200
Resources required:
1. Paint brushes
2. Muriatic acid
3. Masking tape
4. Epoxy bathtub paint kit
5. Acrylic Paint
6. Paint drop cloth
7. Clear Epoxy
8. Face mask
Steps to be followed:
1. Sanding the bathtub:
The first of the steps that you need to perform is to sand the tub and make it more receptive to the paint. You can use 320 grit sand paper for this purpose. Make sure to sand the tub until the finish becomes dull and the gel coat is blurred.
2. Cleaning the tub with muriatic acid:
The purpose of applying muriatic acid is to wipe out oil or lime content from the surface of the tub. It is also effective in dealing with the mulish dust. Rinse the tub with water and wait until it gets dry.
3. Painting the tub:
Before you embark on this step, do remember to cover the entire area along with the walls to avoid any spills or unwanted paint marks. When you are through with this, use a good quality primer to serve your purpose. Now, you can use acrylic paint to create decorative designs outside the tub if you so desire. Next, open the kit and take out the epoxy paint. Apply this paint dartly to the inner surface of the tub. Use a paint brush to cover the farthest regions. Follow top-down approach in performing your task.
4. Apply clear epoxy to the decorative paint.
At last, you can apply a thin coating of clear epoxy to the decoration. Ensure that the paint is totally dry before you proceed to this step. You can then take out all the masks and coverings. It is advisable to mix epoxy using 50 percent resin and 50 percent hardener.
5. Clean the epoxy paint:
Finally, the epoxy paint needs to be cleaned with turpentine and the left over paint disposed off safely.
Frequently asked questions:
1. What to do when I find cracks in the paint?
A. You really need not worry too much if the crack is smaller than an inch. Just paint it all over again and you are through with it. If the crack is bigger than an inch then there is a cause for concern. This could be an structural issue demanding expert examination.
Quick tips:
1. Never forget to read the product manual before you proceed for the real act. It contains the instructions that should be strictly followed while painting.
2. Always remember to cover your face with mask to ensure that you are not prone to the dust or fumes while painting. Some people may experience allergic reactions if not taken care of.
3. Perform this project in a well ventilated area.
4. Cover the drains and faucets completely before you start painting. Plastic covers can be used for this.
Things to watch out for:
1. While rubbing you must be careful not to damage the scratch or harm the unprotected coating.
