Hiring a bathtub remodeler to refinish a damaged bathtub instead of replacing it with a new one is a more economical choice that prevents waste. While bath tub reglazing can cover rusted areas, chips, cracks, scratches, holes, weak areas and plumber’s cut-outs, knowing how to care for the tub after the refinishing process will ensure it continues to perform up to expectations. After the Arlington bathtub refinishing process, it is important to wait for 48 hours after application before it is used. Using the bathtub before the finish is set can lead to damage of the surface.
Once the initial waiting period is over and the tub is back in use, no bottles or bars of soap should be left on the ledges. This can cause water to be trapped against the surface for extended periods that will eat away at the glaze. If storage is needed for soaps and shampoos, specially made holders can be purchased that will hang in the tub or shower so that items are kept close by without causing damage to the bathtub refinishing. Other items that can cause over-exposure to moisture are bathmats, wet towels, or rugs that may be hung over the side of the bathtub.
While keeping the tub clean is important for making it look its best, cleaners which contain abrasives should not be used on the newly finished surface. Instead, use non-abrasive foam, gel or liquid cleaners that are recommended for cleaning porcelain or fiberglass surfaces. Regular cleaning will help prevent the build-up of scum on the tub’s surface. Even if there is no evidence of dirt on the tub, regular cleanings will remove the greasy soap film before it builds up. However, if soap scum does become a problem, a soft plastic scrub brush or nylon net scrubber will help remove it without damaging the surface. To remove oily residue after bath tub reglazing, an inexpensive shampoo applied with a light abrasive nylon pad will usually cut the oil better.
Sometimes the new finish can cause the bathtub to be slippery. If so, a non-suction type bathmat should be used. Those with suction cups on the bottom can harm the new surface. Even those without suction should not be left on the tub for extended periods of time. Instead, they should be removed after use and not left hanging over the side of the tub.
If there are leaky faucets in the tub, they need to be fixed immediately. Dripping water can quickly wear down the surface and also leave mineral deposits behind that will cause visual damage to the tub’s surface.
With these simple maintenance tips, an old bathtub can be made new again with refinishing. Those made of fiberglass or porcelain can be refinished as can the surrounding shower stalls and ceramic tile. When considering refinishing to cover damage in the bathtub or to change the color of the existing tub, it is a good idea to find a remodeler who offers a warranty on their services to ensure that they provide a quality product that can be expected to perform effectively.