Get matched with top bathtub restoration pros in Sargent, NE

Before you begin caulking a shower, you’ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to get rid of the mold, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter’s tape—one above the joint where you’re caulking and another below it.

There are a few ways to check whether your tub is fiberglass or acrylic. If your tub is a color other than white, then your tub is likely acrylic (as fiberglass tubs are usually white). Check to see if there is discoloration on the bottom of the tub, because if it’s yellowed, then you can be fairly sure it’s fiberglass.

Also, fiberglass tubs have thinner edges and are cool to the touch. Acrylic, on the other hand, is either room temperature or warm to the touch.

Ammonia is a powerful household cleaner, but don’t use it for your acrylic tub. Ammonia or cleaners containing this ingredient can break down the surface of the acrylic bathtub and leave it with permanent damage. Instead, try a gentler store-bought acrylic tub cleaner, or a homemade baking soda cleaner.

As with any project, refinishing your bathtub presents pros and cons to consider, such as:

Pros

• The job is typically quick, and your tub is ready within 48 hours.

• Your bathtub looks new.

• You don’t need to tear out the old tub and replace it with a new one.

• You can customize it with the color of your choice.

• You can’t tell the bathtub has been refinished.

Cons

• Refinished bathtubs can be slippery.

• Not all refinishing products are created equal.

• You need to wait up to 48 hours before using the bathtub.