How To Refinish An Old Clawfoot Tub: A Personal Experience

Refinishing an old clawfoot tub can be a challenging task, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. I recently went through the process of refinishing my own tub and learned a lot along the way. In this article, I’ll share with you my experience and provide tips and insights on how to refinish your own clawfoot tub.

Why Refinish An Old Clawfoot Tub?

Clawfoot tubs are a beautiful and timeless addition to any bathroom. However, over time, they can become stained, chipped, and rusted. Refinishing your tub can give it new life and make it look brand new again.

Step-By-Step Guide

Here are the steps I took to refinish my clawfoot tub:

Remove any hardware or fixtures from the tub.
Clean the tub thoroughly with a non-abrasive cleaner and rinse with water.
Strip any old paint or finish from the tub using a paint stripper and a scraper.
Sand the tub with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
Repair any chips or cracks in the tub using a repair kit.
Apply a coat of primer to the tub and allow it to dry completely.
Apply a coat of tub and tile refinishing paint to the tub and allow it to dry completely.
Repeat step 7 until you have achieved the desired thickness and finish.
Replace any hardware or fixtures that were removed earlier.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some tips and ideas to help make your clawfoot tub refinishing project a success:

Choose the right paint for your tub. Look for a tub and tile refinishing paint that is specifically designed for use on porcelain or cast iron tubs.
Use a respirator mask and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Make sure the tub is completely dry before applying any paint or primer.
Use a high-quality brush or roller to apply the paint for a smooth finish.
Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat to avoid drips and runs.
Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers on the newly refinished tub.
Consider adding a non-slip coating to the bottom of the tub to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, consider hiring a professional to refinish your tub.
Enjoy your new and improved clawfoot tub!

Pros and Cons

Like any home improvement project, refinishing a clawfoot tub has its pros and cons. Here are some of them:

Pros:

Refinishing your tub is much cheaper than replacing it.
You can customize the color and finish of your tub to match your bathroom decor.
Refinishing your tub can extend its lifespan and make it look brand new again.

Cons:

Refinishing a tub is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process.
If not done correctly, refinishing a tub can lead to peeling or chipping of the new finish.
Refinishing a tub requires the use of harsh chemicals and can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken.

Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with the results of my clawfoot tub refinishing project. The tub looks brand new again and it was a fraction of the cost of replacing it. However, the process was definitely more difficult and time-consuming than I anticipated. If you’re thinking of refinishing your own tub, I would suggest doing plenty of research beforehand and being prepared for a bit of a challenge. That being said, the end result is definitely worth it!

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to refinish a clawfoot tub?

A: Refinishing a clawfoot tub can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the amount of prep work that needs to be done and how many coats of paint are needed.

Q: Can I refinish my own tub or should I hire a professional?

A: Refinishing a tub is a DIY project that can be done by most homeowners. However, if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.