The Reglazed Bathtub Is Peeling

Reasons for Peeling

• A variety of issues may lead to a reglazed bathtub peeling, including a chip in the surface. Water can seep underneath a new finish, loosening it further so peeling continues. Chips may be caused by dropping something heavy onto the surface or using harsh cleaners or scouring pads on the tub. Poor refinishing may also lead to peeling, such as when the glaze is not allowed enough time to cure or dry.

  The surface may also have not been properly prepared to fully absorb the glaze. Sudden temperature changes from cold to hot water, high water pressure, and normal wear and tear also contribute to peeling or chipping. If it has been more than 10 years since the tub's last re-glazing, normal wear and tear may be solely responsible.

Fixing It

• Several options exist for dealing with peeling glaze, including contacting a professional company to deal with the problem. An experienced repairman can assess the extent of the wear and determine if a thorough cleaning, stripping and re-glazing is required.

  A refinisher masks the adjacent surfaces, opens windows and vents the bathroom for safety. He removes caulk along the tub's perimeter before applying a chemical stripper that has been allowed to set. The cleaner often contains an adhesion promoter to ensure a strong bond between the glaze and the tub. The cleaner washes off before several coats of quick-dry primer mixed with a bonding agent are sprayed onto the surface.

  Once all layers have been applied, the glaze cures for at least 10 hours.

Proper Cleaning

• Proper cleaning and maintenance can maximize the life of glaze on a tub. Avoid abrasive cleaners like scouring powders or products containing acid or white vinegar. Steel wool and other metal tools will degrade the finish as well. Experiment with extremely gentle cleaners until you find one that is just strong enough to properly clean the tub without wearing it down.

  Grease-cutting dish soap mixed with hot water works well for routine cleaning when scrubbed with a soft sponge or rag. For a deeper cleaning product, mix equal parts baking soda and ammonia. Gently scrub with a soft sponge or rag. Repeat as desired and rinse thoroughly with hot water to prevent baking soda buildup. Table salt with lemon juice can be sprinkled onto a tough stain. Rubbing a tiny amount of lemon oil on a clean rag works well as a shine booster and protective layer.

DIY Kits

• While DIY refinishing kits are available relatively inexpensively for cleaning and glazing, care must be taken to avoid yet another peeling and chipping incident. A kit's biggest advantages include low price and being able to re-glaze the tub on your own schedule.

  Proper stripping for adequate glaze adhesion requires plenty of scrubbing and working with very harsh chemicals, which can be hazardous. The refinisher or DIYer must wear a full-face respirator, goggles and rubber gloves. The primer and topcoats also require precise mixing.