Can a Fiberglass Bathtub Be Refinished?

Why Choose Refinishing Over Replacing Your Fiberglass Bathtub?

Refinishing your bathtub can be a game-changer for your bathroom’s appearance and your wallet. If you have a fiberglass bathtub, you might be wondering if it can be refinished to look as good as new. 

The short answer is yes! Refinishing a fiberglass bathtub is not only possible but also an affordable and efficient way to restore its original beauty and functionality. However, there are some things you should consider before starting your bathtub refinishing, and we’ll talk about that in the following blog post.

Modern bathroom with a white standalone tub, potted plant, and intricate wall design. Fiberglass Bathtub refinished by Todd's Bathtubs

Common Problems With Fiberglass Bathtubs & Solutions

Fiberglass bathtubs, while durable and cost-effective, can experience several common issues over time, including:

  • Scratches & Nicks: Fiberglass can be prone to scratching, especially if you use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing tools. These scratches can accumulate and detract from the bathtub’s appearance.
  • Gelcoat Erosion: The gelcoat layer on fiberglass bathtubs can wear down due to frequent use, cleaning with harsh chemicals, or exposure to sunlight. This erosion can lead to a dull, uneven appearance and make the bathtub more susceptible to stains.
  • Staining: Fiberglass can absorb stains over time, particularly from hard water minerals, soap scum, or hair dyes. These stains can be challenging to remove with regular cleaning methods.
  • Cracks & Chips: Impact or stress can cause fiberglass bathtubs to develop cracks or chips. These issues not only affect the bathtub’s aesthetics but can also lead to leaks if they are left unattended.
  • Discoloration: As fiberglass ages, it may start to yellow or fade, especially in areas exposed to UV light. This discoloration can make the bathtub look old and worn out.
  • Structural Weakness: Older fiberglass bathtubs may lose their structural integrity over time, leading to flexing or creaking when weight is applied. This can be exacerbated if the bathtub has been improperly installed or subjected to heavy impacts.

Top Benefits Of Refinishing Your Fiberglass Bathtub

Bathtub refinishing can help you restore your tub and make it look new. It also offers other benefits like:

  • Cost-Effective: Refinishing is far more affordable than replacing the entire bathtub. It allows you to achieve a like-new appearance without the high cost of buying and installing a new bathtub.
  • Time Efficiency: Refinishing can typically be completed in a day or two, minimizing disruption to your daily routine compared to the longer process of bathtub replacement, which can take several days or even weeks.
  • Environmental Friendliness: Refinishing extends the life of your existing bathtub, reducing the need for the disposal of old materials in landfills. It’s a sustainable choice that contributes to environmental conservation.
  • Aesthetic Improvement: A refinished fiberglass bathtub can look brand new, eliminating scratches, stains, and discoloration. You can also choose a new color or finish that matches your updated bathroom décor.
  • Customization Options: Refinishing allows for customization in terms of color and finish. You can tailor the bathtub’s appearance to your preferences without being limited to standard options available with new tubs.
  • Durability: When done professionally, refinishing restores the bathtub’s durability and resistance to scratches and stains through a strong, protective coating that enhances its longevity.
  • Convenience: Refinishing avoids the demolition and mess associated with bathtub replacement. It’s a less intrusive process that allows you to maintain the existing layout and fixtures in your bathroom.
  • Increased Home Value: A well-maintained, refinished bathtub can enhance the overall appeal and value of your home. It presents a clean and updated appearance that can attract potential buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future.

Refinishing Process Guide For Fiberglass Bathtubs

The refinishing process for a fiberglass bathtub typically involves a few steps to guarantee a successful result. Let’s check them out. 

Cleaning & Preparation

The bathtub is thoroughly cleaned to remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and any residue that could interfere with the refinishing process.

The surface then must be sanded well to make it smooth and to allow the acrylic polyurethane coating to adhere well. The sanding is perhaps the most important step in the process, so it must be performed properly to get the best results. A coat of primer must be applied before the top coat of acrylic polyurethane is sprayed.

Other areas of the bathroom will also be covered and taped off to ensure that any overspray does not get on the walls, floors, and other items. The tub is completely vacuumed to remove dust and then wiped with a surface prep solution.

Repairing Damages

Any cracks, chips, or scratches in the tub can be repaired using a filler material specifically designed for fiberglass. This step ensures a smooth surface for the refinishing coat.

Applying Primer

A bonding primer is applied to the clean and repaired surface of the bathtub. This primer helps the new finish adhere securely to the fiberglass substrate.

Coating

The refinishing material, often a high-quality acrylic urethane coating, is applied evenly to the bathtub surface. This process may involve spraying, rolling, or brushing depending on the refinishing technician’s method and the specific product used.

The professional you hire for your fiberglass bathtub refinishing must have the experience and the training to understand how to apply each of the coatings and how long to let them dry. The professional should also understand how humidity can affect the process and should be able to account for it accordingly.

Curing & Drying

The bathtub is left to cure and dry according to manufacturer specifications. This typically involves allowing the coating to harden completely, which may take several hours or overnight.

Final Buffing & Polishing

Once cured, the bathtub surface is buffed and polished to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. This step enhances the appearance of the bathtub and ensures uniformity across the entire surface.

Recaulking & Cleanup

After the refinishing process is complete, new caulking is applied around the edges of the bathtub to provide a watertight seal. Any masking materials and protective coverings are removed, and the surrounding area is cleaned up.

Curing Time

It’s important to allow sufficient curing time before using the bathtub. This ensures that the new finish has fully hardened and is durable enough to withstand regular use and cleaning.

Choosing The Best Professional For Fiberglass Bathtub Refinishing

Hiring the right professional for your fiberglass bathtub refinishing in Phoenix is essential to get good results. Todd’s Bathtubs has been refinishing tubs throughout Arizona for 39 years, which is longer than any other refinishing company. We have the experience to get the results you want. Our Arizona Bathtub Refinishing Company performs gorgeous fiberglass bathtub refinishing that will make your tub look as good as new. Contact us now for more information!

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Todd’s Porcelain & Fiberglass Repair
1829 S Horne #14,
Mesa, AZ 85204
Office: 480-835-7070
Email: info@toddsbathtubs.com