If you notice your bathtub is not looking it’s best, you may consider refinishing bathtub surface. This involves repairing chips and cracks and sanding off the old surface to replace it with a new one. It may be best to get an expert in for the refinishing process, but it can also be a DIY project. If you are planning to take on the project yourself, there are some common problems that may arise. This article will discuss those issues and tell you how to avoid them.

Bathtub Refinishing Problem1: Bubbling

Bubbles can appear if the coating is not allowed to cure properly or if the old finish is not stripped before resurfacing. Stripping will only be necessary if the surface has been refinished before. If old refinish is not stripped the new finish will not bond to the substrate causing bubbling.

To avoid bubbles, make sure to strip any previous refinishing layers and allow the coating to cure properly before it comes into contact with water.

Bathtub Refinishing Problem2: Fading

Fading occurs if the refinish coating is not mixed properly or mixed too thin. It can also happen if the refinisher does not allow the coating to cure or if the wrong cleaners are used on the surface. These will thin down the finish causing the layer underneath to show through.

You can keep your work from fading by using high quality resurfacing materials mixed to the proper consistency. You should also check with the manufacturer to determine which cleaning products are best for your surface.

Bathtub Refinishing Problem3: Rough Texture

If the surface of your tub feels rough, it may be because it wasn’t sanded or cleaned properly before the coating was applied. A rough texture can also occur because dust and debris got trapped under the finish.

To keep your tub’s surface smooth, wipe it and sand it down several times during the refinishing process. If the surface it rough, you may also be able to use a recommended cleaner to rinse off the dust after the job is completed.

Bathtub Refinishing Problem4: Sticky or Tacky Surface

If the tub feels sticky or tacky after the cure period, it may be that the coating did not cure properly, and it may need to be resprayed. This can occur if the coating isn’t mixed properly or if it’s reacting to a cleaning agent or chemical. A sticky or tacky newly refinished tub should not be used or touched.

To keep your tub from feeling tacky, make sure your coating is properly mixed accounting for humidity and extreme weather circumstances.

Refinishing your tub is a great way to get it looking new without replacing it. However, it’s important to do it properly. The tips in this article will help you avoid common mistakes, so you get great results. What refinishing tips do you have to share?
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