is it safe to bathe in a reglazed bathtub

Want to know more? In addition, youll also have to pay the expenses for any new plumbing, piping, and the overall costs of getting rid of the old bathtub and installing the new one. Our NYC building has a high energy efficiency rating. The substances pros use to reglaze a tub can be a bit dangerous. It is only normal to expect a polished feel when using the bathtub after reglazing. Note that humidity affects both dry time and how well the topcoat bonds to the surface, so the cool, less-humid seasons of fall or spring providethe best conditions for this type of work. But like every other DIY project, bathtub reglazing has its advantages and drawbacks, and thats why this post talks about reglazing bathtub pros and cons. So, its generally essential to take proper care of the reglazed bathtub to avoid possible problems and boost its lifespan. We were told when we did it that it only lasts about five years and I'm finding that to betrue, she says. If your bathroom is long overdue for a makeover, what better way to change the entire aesthetic of the bathroom than changing the centerpiece of the room? Bubbling is one of the most common problems you can face after reglazing a bathtub. The project can take up to several weeks or months if you opt for a custom unit. When the project is complete, you can take a relaxing soak in your new tub, knowing it was refinished correctly and safely. Also, if you're remodeling and want a larger tub or one with more modern features, such as jets, you'll need to demolish and replace the bathtub instead of refinishing it. No matter how carefully you use your bathtub, it loses its glaze over time. Before you dive right in, do some research and make sure youre working with contractors who are experts in bathtub liners. Due to the wrong technique, these issues may appear almost immediately after you reglaze your bathtub: Here are some problems which may arise after years of using the bathtub: Here are your three options when it comes to fixing the above reglazing problems: The first fix is redoing the reglazing all over again but ensuring that you do it the right way this time around. If you have young children and an old tub, then test it before bathing them. Reglazing problems that occur years later are typically due to usage and may result in scratches, gouges . Just as with anything involving strong fumes, people have died from too much exposure to stripping, paint, and primer fumes. Over time, this chip can loosen the entire layer, and the coating starts to come off. Also, fading is likely to happen if you dont give the coating time to cure properly or use incompatible cleaners. Acrylic bathtubs can also be reglazed, as long as they dont have any significant issues. A quality reglazing job on your bathtub will be more than worth a night or two elsewhere. 2. Reglazing can allow you to remove all these from your bathtub quickly at a fairly low cost. Any other surfaces in the vicinity of the tub should be covered in protective paper and drop cloths, and you should wait a day or two to remove everything and use your bathroom and tub. For example, if you have a beautiful clawfoot tub made from heavy cast iron, refinishing is absolutely the way to go. 8 months ago. Then buff the finish to a like-new shine. If your bathtubs color doesnt appeal to you anymore, reglaze it. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. *, Last updated on February 20th, 2023 at 04:22 pm. The substances pros use to reglaze a tub can be a bit dangerous. When the surface is completely dry, wipe the tub with a dry tack cloth to remove any remaining dust. The reason is that a refinished tub coating is layers of specialized paint that can be nicked or scratched without care, so it's best to stick to non-abrasive cleaners. Reglazing allows you to pick a color coat that inspires you and one thats warm. Wipe the tub dry with a soft towel or cloth to remove water droplets. If you want to cover the walls as well, it might take a bit more time. Youll then need to apply a primer or undercoat to improve the topcoats durability. Right now, reglazing jobs dont require any certifications or licenses to perform professionally. So the answer is yes, reglazing is a dangerous . Bathtub reglazing has its fair share of drawbacks, which include the following: Bathtub reglazing involves some painting work, which means you may be exposed to fumes. The whole bathtub reglazing process involves some pretty hard chemicals. Another potential reason for bubbling is if the refinisher doesnt sand the surface properly or strip the previous reglaze before proceeding. Even if you hire a professional, let the area air out and keep it ventilated after the work is complete until you can no longer detect any unusual or chemical odors. Reglazing is just painting. A professional cleans the surface of the tub thoroughly, and then applies an acid to. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you decide to replace the tub, it can put your bathroom out of commission for days with a messed-up plumbing system. Whatever you decide to do, do it fast. On average, a bathtub liner can cost anywhere between $1,500-4,000. Reglazing a tub doesnt actually take that long to do. How to get your plans past the board, 3 NYC apartment bathroom renovation veterans on what they learned from the process. Using that tub refinishing kit certainly was cheaper than ripping out the old bathtub and tile just because we didnt like the ugly yellow color of the old one. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Qualified pros will have all the necessary protective gear, including coveralls and masks with HEPA air filters. But, on the other hand, youll only need a fraction of the replacement cost to reglaze the bathtub. After it is cured, it is safe to bathe in the reglazed tub. More affordable than a new tub purchase. this DIY tub refinishing kit found at Amazon, How To Choose The Trim Color Based Off Your Door Color (With Pictures! I say most because it all depends on the severity of damage to your bathtub. After ensuring you have proper ventilation, follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the paint. Reglazing doesn't sound dangerous, we know. Then, give the bathtub reglazing curing time, maybe another 24 hours, as the curing takes extra time depending on the humidity level. Bathtub refinishing kits make reglazing a bathtub an easy DIY project, but the tub must be free of major damage and instructions must be followed to avoid severe damage. Refinishing is also the best option with antique tubs that dont lend themselves to relining. Tub replacement is more like major surgery, which drives up the cost and complexity of the project, DiClerico said. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. (Obviously, no, but you get the idea.). Its nice for a little bit, but then as you go through your daily routine, youre going to need to get it touched up again, said Jennifer Wagner, a merchant for Home Depots home services. Delivered to your inbox twice weekly - for free. All it takes is a bathtub reglazing kit like the Ekopel 2K Bathtub Reglazing Kit which comes with all the necessary tools and a video tutorial to help you do it. If your bathtub is dingy and stained, or even if it sports some serious rust and cracks, a trained professional can likely fix and re-coat the surface for a like-new look. You can totally transform your existing bathtub! But have you ever thought about what makes this renovation technique so popular among homeowners? Plus, it allows you to preserve an older design, such as an antique clawfoot tub, that adds character to a bathroom but has seen better days. One of the significant risks of refinishing a bathtub is exposure to methylene chloride or dichloromethane, which strips the tub and removes the previous glaze or finish. For the most part, it depends on the person who has done the glazing. Assuming you have hired the best, you should always prepare for the worst. Fortunately, reglazing helps you eliminate them, leaving your tub looking spotless. Unfortunately, steam doesn't get the job done when it comes to reglazed tub finishes, and it could quickly damage the finish, especially if it gets underneath the coating or through any cracks. If you can afford it, get a new bathtub. Avoid using these common cleansers when cleaning a reglazed tub: A household steam cleaner with a scrubbing attachment may seem like a good way to get rid of all that dirt and soap gunk without using abrasives. Reglazing a tub doesn't actually take that long to do. 11. Humidity is harmful to the process, so its best to avoid tub refinishings during the dog days of summers. Need professional help with your project? What is Clear Coat Spray Paint: 4 Benefits for Your Next Project! Next, any holes, cracks, chips, or rust spots are repaired. Cons: The substances pros. The small and intricate repairs, sanding, priming, and painting can all be accomplished in a single day. Usually more cost-effective than swapping it for something new, refinishing a bathtub saves you the time and effort involved in a larger bathroom remodeling project. After we finished reglazing our tub, we left the property for the night. If your bathtub has severe scaling, cracking, abrasions on the surface, or other deep dents or holes, reglazing wont be enough to bring the tub back to life. So, knowing about the potential bathtub reglazing problems will give you a heads up and help you solve the problems. The solution to this problem is properly sanding the tub and cleaning it before applying the coating. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Hi there! The second drawback of refinishing a bathtub is the (few) safety hazards that can occur if you dont follow instructions properly. Therefore, after reglazing is done, a sealer is applied on the surface so that the layers underneath stay intact. No, not really. Here's how to calculate your real monthly rent, How to read a NYC co-op or condo buildings financial statement. To avoid problems and maintain the coating, refrain from adding a bath mat or appliques with suction cups to your tub's surface. Required fields are marked *. ), [Its] a great way to make a grimy, stain-ridden bathtub look new again, says Dan DiClerico, HomeAdvisor'ssmart home strategistand home expert. One of the biggest reasons for this is some of the materials used to strip and reglaze bathtubs can be extremely toxic if accidentally swallowed. Before you get rid of that old tub, though, consider refinishing what you already own. Well also talk about the problems (not the cons) associated with bathtub reglazing and the costs too. Let the coating cure completely before using your bathtub. DIY With Christines main focus is helping yourenovateanddecorateyour dream home without relying on others or paying a contractor outrageous fees. You are able to employ a range of materials, including coatings, and relying on the brand, the result might last something between a few years for one DIY kit and a century upwards for a work life. Refinishing a tub consists of applying a new chemical coating with a special brush or roller to an acrylic, porcelain, fiberglass, or cultured marble bathtub without removing the old layer first. Furthermore, the product enjoys a 24-hour cure time, is eco-friendly, and has a bright and glossy coat. Rinse the tub with warm water to remove hair and excess soap residue. (Wiping it off too quickly doesn't allow the cleaner to disinfect properly.). His go-to isScrubbing Bubbles. It's a common question, and the answer is yes, it's safe to bathe in a reglazed tub. Solution: Reapplying the finish with a blending solvent is the most common way to hide the chipping. If the cost of removing the old tub and installing a new one versus reglazing are similar or your tub is particularly old or damaged, it might be better to get a new one. The original tub almost always needs to be cut into pieces to fit through the bathroom door. But that might not be the case always as the surface may feel sticky sometimes. Small levels can cause a lifetime of health damage. The fumes from this kind of work are generally so heavy, that youll have to spend the nightand probably a full dayout of your home while everything cures and the fumes die down. So, yes, bathtub reglazing is worth it. If you havent figured it out already, you can reglaze a tub yourself! If the area is poorly ventilated (which is common in bathrooms) or the person doing the work isnt wearing the appropriate protective gear, they could stop breathing, or worsemethyl chloride has an effect similar to carbon monoxide poisoning. If you choose a non-slip bathmat without suction cups, only use it when in the bathtub, remove it from the tub after use, and hang it up to let it dry. Most tubs can be reglazed if they are not overly damaged, but the process is generally recommended for steel, cast iron, or fiberglass tubs. Also, if the coating is mixed incorrectly or applied in a thin layer, it tends to wear off after some time. ), Kohler Shower Valve Temperature Adjustment (Explained! It takes a few hours to reglaze your bathtub and up to 1-2 days for everything to cure. Bathtub Refinishing vs. Liner: Whats Right for Your Home? If you get a poor job thats already peeling, then you will have to proceed to other options anyway, said Leo Lantz, the president of. Its that simple! If the tub and surrounding area area too far gone, say with cracks or missing tile work, a full relining is the way to go. Big Lots said Thursday that it's "assisting shoppers . Having your bathtub professionally refinished will cost around $460 (the national average), but you can expect to pay between $200 to $900 depending on the type of tub you have and the cost of labor in your location. If youve got an old bathtub(or bathroom) and youre investigating your options for giving it an upgrade, youve likely come across the term reglazingalso known as refinishing or recoating, which can revive a tiredtub or evenold bathroom tile. Then, give the bathtub reglazing curing time, maybe another 24 hours, as the curing takes extra time depending on the humidity level. Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you. Shares of the brand reached an all-time high of $79.32 in 2013. Bathtub reglazing would be the process of restoring the cover of a tub using premium epoxy that offers a long-lasting, restored surface. Theyll also ensure adequate ventilation during the project, if necessary deploying powerful fans with duct extensions to exhaust hazardous vapors to the outdoors, says DeClerico. If you wait until the tub is visibly dark and dirty, it's difficult to use these gentle methods. If the tub has a non-slip surface, you can scrub this area with a soft, nylon-bristle brush. But in order to enjoy some TLC in your bathtub, you need a clean space you actually want to sink into. From your end, make sure you give the coating enough time to cure and dont use an abrasive cleaner on the reglazed surface. When it comes to reglazing your bathtub, as opposed to buying a new one, there are various pros and cons that you need to consider. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, Playboy, The Washington Post, and Rolling Stone, among other publications. He began his writing career reporting for The Source magazine. Heres how to estimate what a renovation will cost. If you just bought a Mercedes, would you put a rubber mat on the roof? White asks. If a bathtub has reached a point where it takes longer than a day to get minor repairs completed, it probably means that the bathtub isnt worth reglazing anyway. Watch: Go behind-the-scenes of Hoda & Jenna in New Orleans on TODAY All Day. Reglazing is the most affordable bathtub renovation option available and can cost you between $200-$650 on average. According to Chuck Pistor, president of Surface Doctor, the finish on a reglazed tub can last 10 to 15 . As said before, bathtub reglazing is just one of many ways of renovating your old bathtub. Almost any color or appearance can be achieved, including the look of natural stone or marble. I say likely because if a tub has never been reglazed or was properly reglazed the first time, then you can sand, repair, and refinish the tub rather easily. Theres nothing quite like a relaxing bubble bath at the end of a long hard day. Cooler, less-humid weather typical of fall or spring provides the ideal conditions, DiClerico said. Pros will have the correct gear, knowledge of how to ventilate the space and protect themselves, and familiarity with the various chemicals used so you dont need to worry about keeping yourself safe. A well-reglazed bathtub can last you 6-10 years or more, depending on the maintenance. As long as you take the proper safety precautions on the back of the box, you should be fine though. Make sure to factor in some wiggle room in your budget for any tile you might need to put the area around the tub back together. White uses a portable fume exhauster, and HVLP, or high-volume, low-pressure sprayers, which produce less overspray. (All You Need To Know), Use gentle liquid soaps avoid abrasive options like bleach and ammonia-based cleaners, Dont use power sprays as they can damage the tub and void its warranty, Scrub with non-abrasive material like microfiber towels or sponges. Now Im inspired to help others create their dream home as well. Roth. Overall, the total expenses may rack up to more than $5,000. . Bathtub reglazing problems are often due to poor installation and result in flaking, peeling, or bubbled coating. The weather can play a factor in how long it takes for the finishing coat to dry, and how well it bonds to the surface. The best part is that you get to retain your bathtub style and color or upgrade it whichever way you want. Does that mean we can avoid major Local Law 97 upgrades? But if it starts to feel uncomfortable to bathe in, it should be considered a problem. Pros Weigh In, 24 Low-Cost Bathroom Updates That Won't Drain Your Savings, How to Stain Concrete to Make Your Home's Walkways Look Like New, The Best Garage Door Companies for Secure Installation, Compare the Best Nationwide Window Replacement Companies, Beat the Heat With These AC Installation Companies, Must-Do Upgrades for Aging in Place in Any Home, According to Experts. Before we head into the problems and the solutions, lets get a clear idea about what bathtub reglazing is. Learn how your comment data is processed. On the other hand, reglazing is the final phase of the restoration process, where you give the tub a new look. What if your bathtub could be transformed in one day from embarrassing to your bathroom's sparkling centerpiece? The fumes from stripping a tub of its previous coating(s) can contain methylene chloride, a colorless liquid that smells similar to chloroform and emits VOCs, aka volatile organic compounds. What Is the Difference Between Reglazing and Refinishing A Bathtub? Most people use tub resurfacing, tub refinishing, tub recoloring, and tub refinishing for bathtub reglazing. The existing finish must stripped off and then the surface sanded down to create a . Thetoxic fumesreleased during the processnot only make your apartment smell bad. White advises keeping away fromcleansers likebleach oreven Soft Scrub. Some problems arise almost immediately due to wrong technique, while others occur after years due to tub usage. Jimmy White of Staten Island-based Custom Spraying and Reglazing, who has been doing it for more than 30 years and is considered the reglazer to the starsheworked on Faye Dunaway's and Candace Bergens bathroomssays it can be done in a few hours, plus 24 hours of dry time. DIY With Christine is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. If you can hire a professional with a reputation in this field, you should easily dodge these issues. That saves you from doing all the work that comes with bathtub reglazing. Solution: The solution to this problem is pretty simple. Closing Remarks On Reglazing a Bathtub Pros and Cons: What is Chalk Spray Paint? Reglazing is the most affordable bathtub renovation option available and can cost you between $200-$650 on average. We're starting to see chipped areasThey're more in the tub than on the walls. Now that youve seen the full list, lets further break down each point so you can make the right decision for your situation. The bathtub refinishing process involves three steps: First, the technician strips off the old finish and sands the tub to create a smooth surface. *My posts may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link! For homeowners with antique claw-foot tubs made from heavy cast iron, its absolutely the way to go, said Dan DiClerico, a home expert for HomeAdvisor. However, you may have to wait for a day or two before you can use the tub. But before you can change its color, you should check for cracks, dents, and other imperfections and sand them first. There's no consensus on whether or not to use vinegar to clean a refinished tub. On the other hand, if you choose to hire a tub reglazing professional, the project will cost you $250-$800, depending on the severity of the tub damage. When we came back the next day, the fumes had pretty much disappeared. But before we can look at the pros and cons of reglazing your bathtub, I should explain what bathtub reglazing is. Poor preparation is responsible for that as it didnt remove the chip in the first place. Likely the most expensive bathtub renovation option, a new bathtub can cost anywhere between $300-3,000 - plus labor. Your email address will not be published. Also, any cleaner can damage a tub's finish if it's allowed to dry on the surface. Power washing old or original tile in a tub and shower can be done but it's not common and you should never attempt it on a reglazed surface. Methyl chloride has high vapor pressure, meaning that it evaporates extremely quickly and turns into gas that can easily be inhaled, especially in a small bathroom that may not be adequately ventilated. If you only have one bathroom in the house, you'll have to make alternate showering/bathroom arrangements during construction. So, consider them when deciding if you should reglaze your bathtub or get a new one. Thats a great deal, because an entire replacement cost, especially if you have it professionally done, can run well into the thousands of dollars. Its a multi-step process that involves cleaning the tub thoroughly and sanding it to remove any soap scum or other particles, and repairing cracks or worn areasall of these imperfections will affect the quality and durability of the final finishing coat. Never allow chemicals like dyes, drain openers or bleach sit on your refinished surface. Reglazing is a process of repairing and refinishing a porcelain or ceramic surface. Professionally glazed tubs will cost between $250 and $700 depending on the level of repair the tub needs. However, you need to keep these essential health and safety considerations in mind whether you hire a contractor to refinish your tub or do it yourself. There is no safe level of lead exposure for a child. Provided the paint cures well, and the reglazing is done fine, a reglazed bathtub usually is safe to bathe in. Thorough prep and and cleaning can preventbig headaches down the road. She and her contractor agreed to wait until the weather cooledto remedy the situation. Instead, many homeowners have the existing tub reglazed or refinished, which typically costs $300-$600, depending on the area and process. Also, if the tubs surface is not sanded properly, that can be another potential reason. Two of the Why Is Kohler Purist So Expensive And Is It Worth It? That way, you won't end up back with the pitted and discolored tub that you probably just refinished. If you must bathe your pet in a reglazed bathtub, you should put down a towel on the tub's bottom so there is no damage from claws. Then when the surface is smooth, layers of primer and paint are applied to fill up the cracks and buff the surface. Plus, there is minimal disturbance as you only need to leave the house a day. For example, for a newer, low-quality tub, you'll typically get better results by replacing it with a higher-quality model. A refinished surface is easy to clean, resistant to mold and mildew, and makes the tub look like new. Read more about me and my past home renovation projects here. This period may make it seem like the same thing. Refinishing is well-suited to very old tubs, which typically have more character and are made of higher-quality materials than what's available today. Tubs that are in bad disrepair might also not be suited for reglazing. If your tub is beyond reglazing and you cannot afford to get a new one, then you should invest in a bathtub liner and fit it. I agree most reglazing projects take two to three days to complete fully with drying. Using methylene chloride products in a bathroom is extremely dangerous as bathrooms are often small, enclosed spaces with little or no ventilation.
Willard Cue Tip Machine, Does Girl Scout Cookie Money Go To Planned Parenthood, Articles I