Spray-On Method

Bathtub refinishing is a great way to renovate your old, worn-out or damaged tub. It can extend the life of your tub without the expense and inconvenience of removing and replacing it. One popular method of bathtub refinishing is the spray-on method using epoxy enamel. Find out more and see if this is the right choice for you.

Although bathtub refinishing with enamel using the spray-on method has been around for a long time, it is still being used today. It’s relatively low-cost, simple to use and provides a good finish. After it dries, the renewed surface has a shiny, white look that updates the entire bathroom. What is involved in the process, and how does it compare to newer, modern methods and materials?

BATHTUB REFINISHING WITH EPOXY ENAMEL

The first step in the process is the preparation stage. The water supply must be disconnected, and the faucet and spout need to be removed.

The next step is removing the original enamel coating. Depending on the age of the tub, there may be extensive cracks and chips, as well as rust stains and fading. All these imperfections must be removed and patched to make a smooth, uniform surface.

After the last layer is applied, the tub must be left to dry completely. It is important to keep the bathroom warm and dry during this time. Care also must be taken that no dust or debris falls on the surface and that insects do not land on it because any of these can ruin the finish. It takes about 2 or 3 days to dry completely, and then the tub is ready to be used.

Refinishing with epoxy enamel is an affordable and fairly simple method for restoring a faded or worn-out bathtub. This can be an inexpensive way to brighten up your tub to a clean, white shine and freshen up the look of your entire bathroom. With careful maintenance, the newly refinished surface can last from 1 to 5 years.

Removing and replacing your tub is expensive and can be time-consuming, so refinishing with epoxy enamel is a less expensive alternative. The cost starts at $250 and may vary depending on size and other factor.

Even though refinishing a bathtub with epoxy enamel is one of the least expensive options, it is becoming outdated. Modern materials provide higher quality and greater durability, so consumers should carefully research their options before deciding on a refinishing method.

Compare bathtub reglazing with liquid acrylic to spray-on epoxy enamel:

	Reglazing with acrylic	Spray-on enamel
Durability	10 years or more	1 to 5 years
Time to apply material	3-4 hours	5-6 hours
How soon work is started	1 day	2-3 days
Strong odor	None	Yes
Drying time	24 hours	72 hours or more
Antimicrobial finish	Yes	No
COST:	from $259	from $259

DISADVANTAGES OF EPOXY ENAMEL

Refinishing with epoxy enamel generally costs less than other methods, but there are several major drawbacks.

BATHTUB REFINISHING USING LIQUID ACRYLIC

Liquid acrylic is a leading-edge material that offers many advantages over outdated materials. It’s a favorite among contractors and property owners alike for its excellent results.

Liquid acrylic is flexible and pliable, so it is self-leveling. That makes the finish smooth and even, and it eliminates ridges, bubbles and bare spots. The excess material is removed, and the tub is left to dry.

Within 24 hours, the finish is completely cured and the tub is ready to be enjoyed.

Benefits of acrylic

Bathtub refinishing with liquid acrylic offers many benefits that set it apart from other refinishing materials. It’s unmatched in terms of speed, durability, strength, convenience and safety. It resists impacts, chips, microbes, dirt and rust, so it keeps is smooth, glossy finish for many years. Cleaning is a breeze; all you need is a mild soap or cleaner and a soft sponge to keep it spotless.

With a lifespan of 10 years or more, liquid acrylic gives you a great return on your investment. In just a few hours the work is finished, and within a day you will be able to enjoy magnificent results – a like-new tub that brightens up your whole bathroom and makes bathing a luxurious experience.

Are there really any disadvantages to bathtub refinishing with liquid acrylic? At first glance, the price of epoxy enamel may seem like an advantage, but in reality the strength and durability of liquid acrylic make it a superior option. It just makes sense to spend a little more up front to get a high-quality finish that will stay beautiful for a long time and won’t need to redone in a year or two. There really aren’t any disadvantages to liquid acrylic when you.

EPOXY ENAMEL OR LIQUID ACRYLIC: WHICH IS BETTER?

If your goal in selecting a refinishing method is to invest in a product that gives the best results while saving time and money, it’s worth it to explore your options and make an informed choice. Compare the differences between epoxy enamel and liquid acrylic to see which fits your needs and preferences:

• SAVING MONEY

  At first glance, enamel seems like the obvious winner because it is usually less expensive up front. However, if your goal is to get the most value for your money, liquid acrylic comes out ahead because of its strength and durability. Since it lasts several times longer than epoxy enamel, you’ll realize savings after just a couple years when the epoxy enamel starts wearing off or staining and needs to be replaced.

  On the other hand, if your objective is a quick fix to sell or rent a property, epoxy enamel can provide a fast, inexpensive way to refinish a tub for short-term results

• SAFETY

  Liquid acrylic is safe and eco-friendly. It does not cause allergic reactions or irritation to the skin or eyes, and it has no odor either during the application process or while drying afterwards. Its near-zero VOC status means that it does not emit toxic substances that could pose a health threat to you or your family.

  The technician applying the acrylic does not need special protective equipment, and the residents of the property do not need to vacate it. Epoxy enamel, on the other hand, requires that the technician use protective equipment such as a respirator to protect from harmful fumes, and the premises may need to be vacated by the residents.

• DESIGNER FINISHES

  Liquid acrylic gives you the option to tint the material for a wide array of color choices. From soft, soothing ocean tones to bright, popping color, there are tones to match every taste and decorating style. You can make a bold statement or a subtle whisper by adding a pigment to the acrylic material to give your bath a designer touch for an affordable price.

  Epoxy enamel is available only in white, which significantly limits your options.

• DURABILITY

  Both liquid acrylic and epoxy enamel provide a smooth, shiny finish when applied. However, shortly after that the differences become visible.

  Enamel has a porous surface, so dirt, water and rust start to stain the surface and make it lose its luster. Within just a year, it no longer has a glossy finish.

  Acrylic is a dense material that resists dirt, stains, and microbes and keeps its pristine shine for many years. With proper maintenance, the radiant finish can last up to 15 years or more

• TIME

  Enamel takes longer to apply, and much longer to dry. It has a strong chemical smell, so residents may have to leave the premises for a few days, causing inconvenience for the whole family.

  Liquid acrylic does not present any of those issues. It has no odor, so residents do not have to leave, and it is ready to use within 24 hours. That’s a huge time savings.

• HYGIENE

  The porous surface of epoxy enamel traps dirt and allows microbes to grow and flourish, making it unsightly and a health hazard. In order to get it clean, vigorous scrubbing and harsh chemicals are needed, and these in turn wear down the finish and make it deteriorate even faster.

  Acrylic has a solid, non-porous surface, so it resists bacteria and mold, which is safer for your family. Dirt and stains don’t build up, so only a mild soap or cleaner and a soft sponge are needed to keep it clean.

DIY BATHTUB REFINISHING

Epoxy enamel refinishing is a job that DIYers can tackle to save money, but it takes time and patience. You can learn the process and obtain the necessary tools and supplies to complete the job yourself by looking for online resources.

The bathtub should be disconnected from the water supply, and the drain and faucet need to be removed. Due to the strong chemicals in the epoxy, the room needs good ventilation. The residence should be vacated to avoid exposure for 2-3 days, and the other rooms should be isolated so the chemical odor does not spread to them.

The person applying the finish must use a respirator to protect from toxic fumes. Remove objects near the tub or wrap them in plastic to protect them from drips, spills and overspray.

Pro tip: Be sure the temperature in the bathroom is kept at a minimum of at least 68°F to promote faster drying time.

The final result of the refinishing process depends greatly on the preparation of the two components that make up the enamel epoxy: the enamel itself and a hardener. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and mix thoroughly for a full 10 minutes, being sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the container to blend all the material. Poorly mixed materials result in inferior results: a finish that’s uneven, peeling, and yellowing.

Using a brush or roller to apply the epoxy enamel is the easiest method. Spread the material evenly over the entire surface of the tub in one direction, starting horizontally. Check the surface carefully for any bristles or lint from the brush or roller and remove them with tweezers so they won’t ruin the finish. Apply at least two coats in different directions, allowing each to dry before applying the next coat.

Let the finish dry for 2-3 days before using the tub, and make sure to maintain the room temperature of at least 68°F. Wash the surface with soap and water before using it, and use non-abrasive cleaners for regular cleanings.

DIY refinishing with epoxy enamel is time-consuming if you don’t have experience, but the material is inexpensive so if your budget is very limited it may be the best option.

If you’d like to explore the transformation that’s possible for your bathtub with liquid acrylic, call or click below for a free quote. It’s a great investment with beautiful results.