Do-It-Yourself Refinishing for Chrome Faucets

Cleaning the Faucet

• It's important to clean the faucet thoroughly before attempting to refinish it. The combination of baking soda and vinegar effectively removes the soap scum, dirt and other mystery grime on the chrome faucet. Create a paste with 1/4 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda, and stir the ingredients until they’re thoroughly incorporated. Spread a thin layer of the paste over the chrome faucet with a rag, and work the product into the chrome with a plastic scrub brush, allowing it to remain for at least 10 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. Dry the faucet with a soft cloth.

Prepping the Space and Faucet

• Prepping the sink area and faucet is labor-intensive, as the chrome paint is generally applied in several layers. Cover any area, including the wall, sink and vanity, you don’t want covered with the chrome spray paint with heavy paper and painter’s tape to protect the work area. Work a piece of 180-grit sandpaper over the chrome faucet to roughen up its surface; this will allow the chrome spray paint to adhere more effectively. Keep plugging away until the chrome faucet feels rough to the touch, then wipe away the sanding dust with a tack cloth.

Applying the Paint

• A can of rust-resistant metallic aerosol primer offers an effective adhesive surface for the chrome paint. Shake the can for at least 30 seconds, and then cover the chrome with a thin, even layer of the product, holding the can approximately 10 to 12 inches away from the faucet. Allow the primer to dry according to the package directions, or at least one hour, before applying the chrome spray paint. Apply the chrome spray paint in the same fashion as the primer, applying the product in even back and forth strokes. Allow the first layer to dry for one to two hours, then applying anywhere from three to five additional coats, allowing the paint to dry between coats. Allow the final coat to dry eight hours, or overnight, before removing the protective paper from the work area and using the faucet.

Spray Paint Tips

• Wear a dust mask or respirator while applying the spray primer and paint, and open a window or run a box fan to ventilate the space. Test the spray paint on a piece of scrap paper to familiarize yourself with the product before starting the repair. If you’re planning to keep your leftover spray paint, clean the nozzle with a damp rag to ensure the spray tips doesn’t become clogged. Store the paint according to the label’s directions, or in a cool, dry place.