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Do DIY Bathtub Refinishing Kits Really Work?

by on Sep 4, 2013

thesubwaywall via Home Depot

I’ve seen professionally refinished tubs that look brand new. The process costs less than removing and replacing existing tubs, but it’s still not inexpensive. There are DIY alternatives out there that LOOK like they work, but do they?? I’ve rounded up a few of the more popular bathtub refinishing kits. Take a look and weigh in to the discussion. Have you DIYed a tub makeover? What product did you use? How’s the finish holding up?

 
Armorpoxy
Armorpoxy (buy on Amazon) has a great name, plus they claim to be ‘commercial’ grade. The kit even comes with a sprayer. The most expensive at $99 plus shipping, it looks promising. 
ArmorProxy Bathtub Refinishing KitsArmorpoxy

BathWorks

Bathworks makes using their DIY Bathtub Refinishing Kit look mighty tempting. (Buy from your local HomeDepot for $89)


Rust-Oleum 

I’m a big Rust-Oleum fan, and their Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit (buy on Amazondoes get very good reviews. The pink tub above was transformed to the one below. 

Bathtub Refinishing Kits

Bathtub Refinishing Kits

 

 
 

 


Homax

Homax Brush-on Tub and Tile Epoxy Paint is a 3 step process. Buy on Amazon
Bathtub Refinishing KitsTool King

AquaFinish 

The AquaFinish kit ($89 + $10 s&h) includes enough for 2 to 3 coats, two foam rollers, a tray and a brush, sandpaper and a tack cloth. 
 
Bathtub Refinishing KitsAquaFinish
 


 

 
 

 

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16 Comments

  1. We used rustoleum tub and tile on our old pink bathtub. It was very hard to get it smooth and there were a few drips left behind. It looked better than what we had for a month or so, then the bottom of the tub began bubbling and peeling. Anytime something got dropped it would chip the finish. On the sides where it was harder to get a smooth finish, soap scum and divert would collect leaving it always looking dirty. I would advise against it.

  2. I spent a lot of time in prep work and used the “Magic” brand system from Home Depot.  It is a 2 part spray system.  It lasted a little over a year and is now peeling big time.  It will require a redo which will not be easy as we now have a surround installed.
     

  3. I used the Klenk’s kit to refinish a shower basin.  It looked good at first, but it’s been a year and the colour has started to yellow(it was white) and it is starting to chip off.  I will now have to redo it or get a new shower basin.

  4. Our tub looked much nicer after using rustoleum’s tub and tile kit. If you looked closely you could see flaws but not bad. It was great for a few months then we noticed a chip. Now the entire bottom of our tub is chipping off and looks horrible.

  5. Thank you for all the input, considering your results I think I’ll call a local reglazer rather than going the DIY route!  Cheers!

  6. I overhauled a clawfoot tub with the Klenk epoxy kit.It’s been at least 5 years and the finish is still like new.
    The trick is to follow the instructions to the T,prep is everything and I did put on about 5 coats making sure that each coat had the time to cure.Also do not use any chemical products to clean it,just towel dry the tub after each use.That’s what I’ve been doing and it’s still like new.
    If possible take the tub outdoors for refinishing and wear a breathing mask,the fumes are harmful.Patience!

  7. Thank you for the great post. I live in the Sacramento area and have opted to refinish my bathtub on my own. Glad to know the process works. 

  8. Good luck Michelle with your refinishing project.
    You should be fine,just be sure to prepare the surface well before applying the paint.And try not to breath the fumes!

  9. Where is a puoring application DIY Kit from Liquid tub liners? I use it 1 time. For application I’m not use any brush, roll or spray.

  10. Help! I did my countertop 3 weeks ago (used Homax paint on Sink and Tile) and it is still not all the way cured! Does anyone have any tips? Does it just take longer? Do I put fans on it? Heaters? I very much do not want to have to strip it or hire someone, so please, someone, if you have any ideas or experience, please let me know 🙂 Thank you!

  11. Used the Klenk product. Followed the instructions verbatim. But about 2 years later, starting to peel on the side of the tub. Going to try to see if I can repair it. 

  12. Use the promo code curbly2015oct and receive 20% off your order of Klenks at swingpaints.com during October 2015.
    Thanks for your support.