Due to regular use, bathtubs eventually show signs of wear such as stains, pits, scratches, rust, and dullness. Those installed several decades ago may be an outdated color which needs modernizing. As a more affordable alternative to replacing the tub, refinishing can make it look like new again. When considering the option of bathtub refinishing West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, FL homeowners should learn what it involves.
Besides costing a fair deal of money, tub replacement is not a small job and can take a long time to complete. That's where the more affordable, yet effective option of refinishing comes in, rather than installing a whole new tub, the old, damaged finish is removed and a shiny, new one is applied.
Generally, reglazing, or refinishing a tub is a one-day job, and it will be ready for use after the required curing time of two to four days. The nature of this project involves handling materials and equipment that only an expert will safely know how to use, so it isn't suitable as a do-it-yourself endeavor.
Although the products and process used, may differ from one company or contractor to the next, refinishing a tub generally consists of several standard steps. Preparing the site as to minimize mess and hazards is the first step, this involves covering all areas of the bathroom except the bathtub with heavy plastic sheeting which is taped down, and setting up a ventilation system to direct dust and fumes outside and away from the other rooms.
The next stage involves using a chemical stripping agent to eliminate all traces of the existing finish, and then sanding it down. With a polyester putty, any cracks or chips in the substrate will then be patched up. Next, the porosity of the surface is increased by the application of a substance called "etching", which is followed by another known as "silane" that promotes adhesion of the finish.
Next, a primer is applied to the tub and left to dry before the finish itself is added. Bathtub finishes are usually made from epoxies, polymers, or urethanes and applied layer by layer with professional spray equipment, allowing each coat to dry between applications. A sealing top coat is the last step and once it has set after a few days, the tub will be ready for use.
Good workmanship is essential when it comes to refinishing a tub, otherwise problems may occur. Mistakes such as not correctly using refinishing agents, failing to sand or clean the surface completely, or not allowing each coat to fully dry, can result in issues such as fading, stickiness, rough texture, and air bubbles. If done expertly, the tub should have a flawless appearance.
Customers need to ensure that they will be satisfied with their newly refinished tub. This means hiring a competent professional contractor or company with sufficient experience and skill. The best way to make sure of this is to request references, inquire about background checks on workers, and confirm insurance coverage. Customers should always ask for a written estimate, and ideally compare several to make the best choice.
Besides costing a fair deal of money, tub replacement is not a small job and can take a long time to complete. That's where the more affordable, yet effective option of refinishing comes in, rather than installing a whole new tub, the old, damaged finish is removed and a shiny, new one is applied.
Generally, reglazing, or refinishing a tub is a one-day job, and it will be ready for use after the required curing time of two to four days. The nature of this project involves handling materials and equipment that only an expert will safely know how to use, so it isn't suitable as a do-it-yourself endeavor.
Although the products and process used, may differ from one company or contractor to the next, refinishing a tub generally consists of several standard steps. Preparing the site as to minimize mess and hazards is the first step, this involves covering all areas of the bathroom except the bathtub with heavy plastic sheeting which is taped down, and setting up a ventilation system to direct dust and fumes outside and away from the other rooms.
The next stage involves using a chemical stripping agent to eliminate all traces of the existing finish, and then sanding it down. With a polyester putty, any cracks or chips in the substrate will then be patched up. Next, the porosity of the surface is increased by the application of a substance called "etching", which is followed by another known as "silane" that promotes adhesion of the finish.
Next, a primer is applied to the tub and left to dry before the finish itself is added. Bathtub finishes are usually made from epoxies, polymers, or urethanes and applied layer by layer with professional spray equipment, allowing each coat to dry between applications. A sealing top coat is the last step and once it has set after a few days, the tub will be ready for use.
Good workmanship is essential when it comes to refinishing a tub, otherwise problems may occur. Mistakes such as not correctly using refinishing agents, failing to sand or clean the surface completely, or not allowing each coat to fully dry, can result in issues such as fading, stickiness, rough texture, and air bubbles. If done expertly, the tub should have a flawless appearance.
Customers need to ensure that they will be satisfied with their newly refinished tub. This means hiring a competent professional contractor or company with sufficient experience and skill. The best way to make sure of this is to request references, inquire about background checks on workers, and confirm insurance coverage. Customers should always ask for a written estimate, and ideally compare several to make the best choice.
About the Author:
Homeowners looking for specialists in bathtub refinishing West Palm Beach area should turn to the following website for all their resurfacing needs. To find out more about the company, view this page at http://www.resurfacingdoctor.com.
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