How to Maintain Your Refinished Bathtub

Congratulations on having your bathtub resurfaced! It's great to see how fresh and revitalized it looks. To keep your bathtub in pristine condition and extend its lifespan, it’s important to follow proper care and maintenance practices. While resurfaced bathtubs are generally low-maintenance, there are specific steps you can take to ensure they stay looking brand-new. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your newly refinished bathtub.

Patience Is Key: Allowing Time for Proper Curing

After refinishing, your bathtub requires sufficient time to cure completely before use. Ideally, avoid stepping into the tub for at least two full days, but waiting a full week is even better. Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can influence the curing process, so it’s wise to exercise patience. Even if the surface feels dry, the coating underneath might still be setting. By giving your tub enough time to settle, you’re ensuring maximum durability and longevity.

Effortless Cleaning Tips for Your Resurfaced Tub

Maintaining a clean resurfaced bathtub is straightforward, similar to caring for a regular tub. The new coating is designed to handle common household cleaners, including gentle scrubbers like Mr. Clean Magic Erasers. However, it’s best to avoid harsh abrasives such as steel wool or scouring pads, as these can gradually wear away at the protective finish. Fortunately, the surface is typically smooth, meaning you won’t need much effort to keep it sparkling. A simple damp cloth with mild soap should suffice for regular upkeep.

Recaulking Around Your Tub: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your bathtub was refinished alongside the surrounding tile, caulking might not initially be necessary. However, if you’ve only had the tub itself redone, the caulk line between the tub and tiles may eventually need refreshing. Here’s how to re-caulk your refinished bathtub effectively:

1. Remove any existing caulk carefully. Use a utility knife or scraper to eliminate old material without damaging the tub surface.
2. Fill the tub with water. Adding weight helps the tub settle slightly, preventing cracks in the caulk from stress later on.
3. Apply fresh bathroom caulk along the edge where the tub meets the wall. Smooth it gently into place using your finger or a caulk smoothing tool.
4. Wipe away excess caulk with a damp cloth or squeegee tool. These tools are readily available at most hardware stores.
5. Let the caulk dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Only then should you resume normal use of the tub.

Typically, you’ll need to reapply caulk every five years, depending on usage. If the initial layer shrinks, adding another coat over it is perfectly acceptable—you don’t have to strip away the original layer first.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Bathtub

While your resurfaced tub is built to last, taking additional precautions can help preserve its appearance. Consider these tips:

• Avoid placing non-slip mats or adhesive strips inside the tub. Although they may seem practical, suction cups can harm certain types of coatings and create areas that are hard to clean. If you prefer added traction, discuss applying a slip-resistant coating during your refinishing appointment.
• Never introduce stripping agents into the tub. This includes rinsing items that previously held chemical strippers or using the tub as a temporary container for such substances. Always double-check what goes into your tub to avoid accidental damage.
• Maintain regular cleaning schedules. Frequent light cleaning prevents soap scum, dirt, and grime from building up, reducing the need for aggressive scrubbing. Less abrasion equals longer-lasting protection for your tub.
• Be cautious with heavy objects. Tools like hammers or crowbars can inadvertently cause dents or chips if dropped directly onto the tub’s surface. Handle them carefully when working nearby.

For further advice on maintaining your resurfaced bathtub, feel free to contact our team at Maryland Tub and Tile. We’re here to assist you at 877-717-8827.