How to Repair a Peeling Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Repair a Peeling Bathtub

Your bathtub is one of the most used fixtures in your home, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. If your bathtub is peeling, it can be a eyesore and a health hazard. Luckily, repairing a peeling bathtub is a relatively easy DIY project. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of repairing a peeling bathtub, from preparing the surface to applying the new finish.

We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent your bathtub from peeling in the future. So if you’re ready to give your bathtub a makeover, read on!

Step Materials Instructions
1 Peel and remove all loose paint or sealant from the bathtub with a putty knife. Be careful not to damage the underlying surface of the bathtub.
2 Apply a coat of primer to the entire bathtub. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
3 Apply two coats of bathtub paint to the bathtub, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Be sure to use a paint that is specifically designed for bathtubs.
4 Allow the paint to dry completely before using the bathtub. Enjoy your newly repaired bathtub!

Identifying the Cause of Peeling

Peeling bathtubs are a common problem, but they can be easily repaired if you know what’s causing the peeling. There are a few different things that can cause bathtubs to peel, so it’s important to identify the cause before you can start the repair process.

  • Chlorine: One of the most common causes of bathtub peeling is chlorine. Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can damage the finish of your bathtub over time. If you have hard water, it’s likely that your water contains high levels of chlorine. This can cause the finish on your bathtub to become brittle and start to peel.
  • Mildew: Mildew is another common cause of bathtub peeling. Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on wet surfaces. If you don’t clean your bathtub regularly, mildew can start to grow on the surface and cause the finish to peel.
  • Age: As bathtubs age, the finish can start to wear down and peel. This is especially true if the bathtub is made of a material that is not very durable, such as acrylic.
  • Improper care: If you don’t properly care for your bathtub, it can lead to peeling. This includes using harsh chemicals to clean the bathtub, not cleaning the bathtub regularly, and exposing the bathtub to extreme temperatures.

Once you’ve identified the cause of the peeling, you can start the repair process.

Preparing the Bathtub for Repair

Before you can repair a peeling bathtub, you need to prepare the bathtub for the repair. This involves cleaning the bathtub, removing any loose or damaged material, and applying a primer to the surface.

  • Clean the bathtub: The first step is to clean the bathtub thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, grime, or mildew that could interfere with the repair process. You can use a mild detergent and water to clean the bathtub. Be sure to rinse the bathtub thoroughly after cleaning it.
  • Remove loose or damaged material: Once the bathtub is clean, you need to remove any loose or damaged material. This includes peeling paint, caulk, or grout. You can use a putty knife or scraper to remove this material. Be careful not to damage the underlying surface of the bathtub.
  • Apply a primer: Once you’ve removed all of the loose or damaged material, you need to apply a primer to the surface of the bathtub. This will help the new finish adhere to the surface of the bathtub. You can use a primer that is specifically designed for bathtubs.

Once you’ve prepared the bathtub, you can start the repair process.

Peeling bathtubs can be a nuisance, but they can be easily repaired if you know what’s causing the peeling and how to prepare the bathtub for repair. By following the steps in this guide, you can get your bathtub looking like new again in no time.

3. Applying the Repair Solution

Once you have chosen the right repair solution for your bathtub, it’s time to apply it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

For epoxy resin:

1. Prepare the bathtub by cleaning it thoroughly with a degreaser.
2. Apply a coat of primer to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Mix the epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Apply the epoxy resin to the bathtub, using a trowel or putty knife.
5. Spread the epoxy resin evenly over the surface of the bathtub.
6. Allow the epoxy resin to cure for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer.

For acrylic bathtub refinishing kit:

1. Prepare the bathtub by cleaning it thoroughly with a degreaser.
2. Apply a coat of primer to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Mix the acrylic bathtub refinishing kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Apply the acrylic bathtub refinishing kit to the bathtub, using a roller or brush.
5. Spread the acrylic bathtub refinishing kit evenly over the surface of the bathtub.
6. Allow the acrylic bathtub refinishing kit to cure for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer.

For bathtub paint:

1. Prepare the bathtub by cleaning it thoroughly with a degreaser.
2. Apply a coat of primer to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Apply the bathtub paint to the bathtub, using a roller or brush.
4. Spread the bathtub paint evenly over the surface of the bathtub.
5. Allow the bathtub paint to dry for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer.

4. Testing the Repair

Once the repair solution has cured, it’s time to test it. Fill the bathtub with water and let it sit for a few hours. If there are no leaks, the repair is complete.

If there are any leaks, you may need to apply another coat of the repair solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Peeling bathtubs can be a major eyesore, but they can be easily repaired with the right materials and techniques. By following these steps, you can have your bathtub looking like new in no time.

How can I tell if my bathtub is peeling?

  • The paint on your bathtub is starting to chip or flake off.
  • The bathtub is starting to show signs of rust or corrosion.
  • The bathtub is starting to look dull or faded.

What causes bathtubs to peel?

There are a few different things that can cause a bathtub to peel, including:

  • Age: As bathtubs age, the paint or finish can start to wear away, leading to peeling.
  • Chemical exposure: Bathtubs that are exposed to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or cleaning products, can also start to peel.
  • Moisture: Bathtubs that are not properly sealed or maintained can become damaged by moisture, which can lead to peeling.

How can I repair a peeling bathtub?

There are a few different ways to repair a peeling bathtub, depending on the severity of the damage.

  • For minor peeling, you can try using a bathtub refinishing kit. These kits typically include a primer, paint, and sealant, and can be used to easily and quickly touch up small areas of peeling paint.
  • For more extensive peeling, you may need to strip the old paint or finish and apply a new one. This process is more involved, but it can give you a more permanent repair.
  • If your bathtub is made of fiberglass, you may be able to repair the peeling paint with a fiberglass repair kit. These kits include a resin and hardener, which can be used to fill in small cracks and holes in the fiberglass.

How can I prevent my bathtub from peeling?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your bathtub from peeling, including:

  • Use a bathtub liner or protector. This can help to protect the bathtub from scratches and other damage that can lead to peeling.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals on your bathtub. Harsh chemicals can damage the bathtub’s finish, leading to peeling.
  • Keep your bathtub clean and dry. Moisture can cause the bathtub’s finish to break down, leading to peeling.

What if my bathtub is beyond repair?

If your bathtub is beyond repair, you may need to replace it. When choosing a new bathtub, be sure to select one that is made from a durable material that is less likely to peel. You should also choose a bathtub that is properly sealed and maintained to help prevent future peeling.

In this article, we have discussed the causes of peeling bathtubs and how to repair them. We have also provided tips on how to prevent bathtubs from peeling in the future.

If you are experiencing peeling bathtub, it is important to take action as soon as possible. By following the steps in this article, you can repair your bathtub and prevent further damage.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

  • Peeling bathtubs are caused by a variety of factors, including the use of harsh chemicals, improper installation, and exposure to moisture.
  • To repair a peeling bathtub, you will need to remove the old sealant, sand the surface, and apply a new sealant.
  • You can prevent bathtubs from peeling by using a mild cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals, and keeping the bathtub dry.

By following these tips, you can keep your bathtub looking new for years to come.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.