What Is Reglazing an Epoxy?

Reglazing

• The process of reglazing, also known as refinishing, entails placing a new finish on an old bathtub or sink that has lost its initial glaze, or finish, due to age and use. Reglazing increases the lifespan of your tub or sink by adding a protective layer that prevents water and chemicals in soap, shampoo, cleaners and more from damaging the compositional material of the sink or tub. Home reglazing kits exist for adventurous, DIY homeowners, and professionals offer reglazing services for individuals without the time or technical know-how to undertake reglazing.

Epoxy Reglazing

• Reglazing with an epoxy consists of refinishing a bathtub or sink with an epoxy finish or epoxy paint. Epoxy, a chemical compound containing oxygen and carbon, is used in numerous adhesives and coatings, because it forms strong, durable bonds when applied to surfaces. To reglaze a tub or sink with epoxy, you use a liquid epoxy coating or epoxy paint to create a new surface layer for the tub or sink. This surface layer binds with the compositional material of the tub or sink, protecting it.

Epoxy Recommendations and Warnings

• Experts provide both recommendations and warnings when it comes to reglazing with epoxy. In her book “Bathroom Fix-Ups,” author Norma Vally cautions that different types of glazes work with different types of material, such as porcelain and ceramic – always choose an epoxy suited to your tub or sink’s make-up. Mary-Ellen Pinkham, author of the "Guide to Good Enough Housekeeping," recommends against the use of all epoxy refinishing materials, since it peels, chips and bubbles over time. Various other experts caution that reglazing with epoxy requires applying numerous coats, creates a serious mess and takes a long time – as long as 24 hours – to dry.

Alternative Reglazing Methods

• Several alternatives to epoxy reglazing exist, among them refinishing materials and tub covers. Other refinishing materials, such as acrylic coating and paint and urethane coatings, provide better and longer-lasting protection than their epoxy peers. Alternatively, you can purchase a cover for your tub. Made from acrylic or a like material, these covers fit snugly over the worn surface of your existing tub. Keep in mind that covers might require professional installation and often prove very expensive.