You’re dying to give your bathroom a new look, but you’re on a tight budget. You can’t afford to have the tub ripped out and replaced. You’re considering resurfacing as an alternative, but you have concerns. Concerns like, “How long does the bathtub refinishing in Raleigh last?
The short answer is that it depends on the process used and how you care for the tub. In this post, we’ll look at two popular methods for bathtub resurfacing and give you an idea of how well they’ll last. We’ll finish off with tips on keeping the surface in great shape.
The Process Used
Resurfacing
Resurfacing involves spraying a primer layer and then painting over it. The quality of the finish depends on the skill of the painter. That’s why we don’t recommend doing it yourself unless you’re a dab hand with airbrushing.
Resurfacing is a slightly less expensive process because there’s less work involved. The paint is applied in layers to cover the base completely. It’s a good technique and, when performed correctly, should last for at least five years.
The downside is that if there are flaws on the surface, these may show through. You must treat this surface gently because it is prone to chipping.
Recasting
Recasting is a more expensive method, but the results should last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. The process involves removing the gloss from the tub and then applying several layers of enamel. The advantage here is that the coating is more chip resistant.
The downside is that the coating will eventually wear away.
Extending the Useful Lifespan of the Resurfaced Tub
Ask the contractor when you can start to use the tub again. Under normal circumstances, you’ll have to wait at least 24 hours before getting the surface wet.
It’s also wise to ask your contractor what products to use with the resurfaced tubs. Generally speaking, though, the following refinishing tips apply:
- Never use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or harsh acids
- Stick to gentle liquid cleaning agents
- Wipe the area down with a soft sponge or cloth
- Wipe down the tub as soon as the water has drained away to prevent stains
- Rinse well after cleaning
- Never let the cleaner sit on the surface for an extended period of time
- Don’t use any suction cups or similar items on the new surface
If you follow these tips, your tub will stay in good condition for many years to come.
How do I Know it’s Time to Reapply the Coating?
If you look after the surface well, you shouldn’t have to worry about redoing it for ten to twenty-five years. The following signs are indications that you need to resurface the tub again:
- Wear starts to show around the drain area. Wear is a sign that the seal has been breached. Once water gets in between the seal and the tub, the coating will fail. It would help if you were careful about replacing the drain and other fixtures because of this issue.
- The next place to show wear is on the ledge of the tub. We recommend storing your toiletries in a caddy instead of on the ledge. If you don’t, the residue of the shampoo and other chemicals can drip onto the surface and cause it to degrade.
- How fast your tub drains can also affect longevity. If the water stands for long periods, it can degrade the coating.
Final Notes
How long your tub resurfacing lasts depends on the skill of the contractor and how you take care of it. Choose a reputable company from the outset. Then follow our simple tips on protecting the coating, and your tub will see a lot more service.
