Bathtub Restoration questions, answered by experts
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.
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.
Yes, you can absolutely remove rust from a bathtub drain, and doing so can improve the appearance of your tub. Combine three parts baking soda with one part vinegar and mix into a paste. Apply the paste over the drain and let it sit for about an hour before rinsing with cold water. Repeat the process if some rust stains remain. If the stains return, consider installing a water softener, as ongoing issues with bathtub drain rust usually indicate hard water.
Bathtub refinishing is the overall process of repairing and resurfacing a bathtub, while reglazing is a key step within that process. The complete refinishing process includes cleaning the tub, protecting surrounding areas, removing the existing glaze, sanding the surface, applying the new glaze coating, caulking the tub, and replacing fixtures. A professional refinishing job can extend a bathtub's life by 10 to 15 years, whereas a DIY job typically lasts three to four years.
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.
The Jal, NM homeowners’ guide to bathtub restorations
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Bathtub refinishing costs are relatively inexpensive and can make your bathroom look like new. Our guide gives you the information to learn more about this process.
Refinishing your bathtub can make it look brand-new, but the bathtub reglazing process involves chemicals that produce hazardous fumes, so before hiring a professional or refinishing the bathtub yourself, understand the potential health risks.
DIY painting your bathtub is a great weekend activity, and you’ll come out with a fresh bathtub. Learn all about how to paint your bathtub and the considerations involved.