Question 1

Is rust in the bathtub harmful?

Accepted Answer

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Rust in your bathtub occurs when iron in the water or on metal components in your tub are exposed to oxygen, but while it’s unsightly, it won’t make bathing dangerous. However, if the rust appears under or around your tub spout or shower head, it could indicate that you have high levels of iron in your water. Drinking water with small amounts of iron in it usually doesn’t pose a health risk, but you might want to consider installing a water softener. The presence of iron could indicate that you have hard water, which can create some plumbing issues.

Question 2

What does epoxy do?

Accepted Answer

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Epoxy helps protect your garage floor from moisture, staining, and cracks over time. Concrete itself is typically porous, and epoxy fills those tiny holes and creates a smooth finish. Installing garage floor epoxy may also extend the life span of your garage to upwards of 20 years, as it strengthens the concrete and helps prevent water from seeping through it.

Question 3

Should I refinish my bathtub or replace it?

Accepted Answer

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The cost of installing a new bathtub is considerably more expensive than refinishing an existing one, so if you’re looking to upgrade your tub on a budget, you might be better off refinishing it for now. Additionally, if your tub has only minor damage, refinishing it will make it look new again without the extra demolition and time.

Question 4

How long should I wait to use my bathtub after reglazing it?

Accepted Answer

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Most homeowners need to wait at least two days, sometimes three, to use their bathtub following the reglazing process. That’s the normal length of time it takes for epoxy resin to cure. There are quick-dry epoxy kits available that cure in 12 hours, though. To ensure that the epoxy dries properly, try to ventilate the bathroom as well as you can.

Question 5

What are signs that I need to refinish my bathtub?

Accepted Answer

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There are a few signs, both obvious and not so obvious, that it's time to refinish your bathtub. While some of these signs aren't an urgent problem, others could lead to significant damage if left untreated. Signs you should look out for include:

Rust stains, which signal the tub's enamel or surface sealer is deteriorating
Small chips, which can grow into larger chunks and can lead to rusting
Discoloration, which doesn't lead to a more significant problem but can be unsightly
Dirty surfaces, which means that the tub glaze is breaking down and allowing dirt to seep below the coating