Tips for Bathtub Refinishing

Cleaning

• Dirt and soap scum will prevent primer and paint from adhering to a bathtub. Scrub the tub with a heavy-duty cleanser containing trisodium phosphate, prior to application.

Masking

• Cover areas you don't want painted, within and adjacent to the tub, with masking paper and professional painter's tape.

Abrasion

• Bathtubs will not accept a new finish unless they are abraded with sandpaper first. Scour the tub with 120-grit sandpaper. Once the tub feels slightly coarse, it is ready for a base coat of primer.

Priming

• Apply an acrylic latex primer to the abraded tub before painting. Although a roller and paintbrush can be used, spray painting will generate a smoother, professional-looking finish.

Painting

• Acrylic latex and oil-based paints are not appropriate for bathtubs and will eventually chip and peel. Use an appliance epoxy paint on the bathtub. This coating provides an attractive sheen and a high degree of durability.