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How To Refinish A Cast Iron Tub

Can you resurface a cast iron tub?

For an average cost of $350 to $500—a fraction of the $1,200 to $5,000 expense of a new cast-iron or steel tub installed—refinishers can make an antique fixture look brand new. “Professional refinishing can be a cost-efficient solution for that retro look,” Trethewey says.

Is it worth refinishing a cast iron tub?

The cast iron tub refinishing procedure also known as cast iron tub reglazing, not only is a viable alternative to replacement when the tub is old, stained, damaged, or simply doesn’t look good anymore but has become the number one choice for contractors nowadays when they are hired by a homeowner to remodel a bathroom May 13, 2021.

How many times can a cast iron tub be refinished?

Refinishing can be done by professional installation or by using a do-it-yourself reglazing kit. Such repeated refinishing applications cannot be repeated indefinitely. Refinishing is regarded as a temporary fix in the best of circumstances, and two refinishing coatings are the most you can reasonably expect to apply.

Is it worth it to refinish a bathtub?

Bathtub refinishing is worth the money if your tub is in good working condition. The reglazing process can remove surface imperfections, like scratches, shallow cracks, and stains. But if your tub is old, leaking, or full of mold, reglazing is just a waste of money. You’ll have to buy a new tub soon anyway.

How do I know if my tub is steel or cast iron?

A stainless steel tub will make a ticking or clacking sound. A cast iron tub will sound like a deep gong, just as if you hit a cast iron frying pan. Look at the bottom of the tub if possible. A cast iron tub will be black, and a steel tub will be metallic, although it may be covered with a layer of paint.

Can I Reglaze my bathtub myself?

Whether you have your tub refinished by professionals or recoat it yourself, all the work is done on-site. Surrounding materials, including tile, flooring, and all of the other elements, are masked off and left in place as the resin coating is applied.

How long does Reglazing a tub last?

The short answer is that a professional reglaze will last 10-15 years. The long answer is that there are other factors in prolonging the glaze and finish of your bathtub. Refinishing helps protect the integrity of your bathtub.

Should I keep my cast iron tub?

if it’s in good condition, keep it. cast iron tubs are wonderful, and hold up better than the acrylic tubs that you can get now. they hold heat better too, if you want to soak.

What is the difference between reglazing and refinishing a tub?

So the main difference between the “bathtub refinishing” and “bathtub reglazing” is that the former refers to the entire restoration project and the latter refers to the commercial coating applied at the end of the process.

How much does it cost to Reglaze your bathtub?

The average cost to reglaze a bathtub is $722. Prices may vary depending on the size of the tub, location, and current labor costs. It may cost as low as $400 to as much as $1,000 or more to have a tub refinished. This cost includes labor, prep work, materials, and cleanup.

How do you paint a cast iron tub?

Remove Rust. The first thing you need to do is make sure your bath is free of rust. Prepare the surface. After removing the rust the surface needs to be degreased using sugar soap. Prime the surface of the bath. Before applying a coloured paint you will need to use a metal primer. Apply an undercoat. Paint your bath.

Do it yourself refinish bathtub?

Tub or Shower Refinishing: Basic Process Remove or tape drain and fixtures. Scrape the tub with a razor. Dull the surface with etching powder. Sand the surface. Clean with a tack cloth. Tape the caulking. Apply the primer. Apply the coating with a roller, then with a brush.

Does painting your bathtub really work?

The answer is YES. Painting a bathtub isn’t something most people think to do. In fact, when I started telling people my plan was to paint my pink tub, they either asked how or thought it wouldn’t work. Well, I’m here to tell everyone who doubted me that it indeed worked and looks like a million bucks!Dec 7, 2019.

Will a magnet stick to cast iron?

Magnets only attach themselves to strong metals such as iron and cobalt, and that is why not all types of metals can make magnets stick to them, which answers the question “why are some metals not magnetic?” However, you can actually add properties such as iron or steel into the weak metals to make them stronger.

Will a magnet stick to a cast iron tub?

A magnet will stick to steel or cast iron tubs, but not to fiberglass. Knock on the tub a few times. If you have a cast iron tub, the sound will dampen quickly and will be a lower pitch. These are very dense tubs, so knocking on cast iron should result in a quiet sound.

When did they stop making cast iron tubs?

Although the cast iron tub is no longer as popular as it was from 1920 to the 1980s it is still the go to material for a premium bathing experience. Along with copper and steel, cast iron tubs have been used for bathing vessels since the mid 1800s.

What can I do with an old clawfoot tub?

The tub can be used as a planter, outdoor furniture, indoor furniture and many other transformations. Turn it into a planter in your garden. Transform it into an outdoor sofa. Transform it into a chaise lounge. Turn it into a couch. Upcycle it into a chair. Transform it into a coffee table and planter.

How much does it cost to refinish a clawfoot tub?

The average cost to refinish a clawfoot tub is $300 to $650, depending on the size and condition. Clawfoot tub issues such as erosion, rust, pinholes, scarring, lead paint, or chips need to be addressed before reglazing. Refinishing takes 4 to 5 hours and typically comes with a 3 to 10-year warranty.