Q: What is the difference between resurfacing, refinishing, re-enamelling, reglazing and repainting your bathtub?
A: These words are often used interchangeably for the process of recoating your bathtub. Resurfacing and refinishing are both correct terms for Mend-A-Bath International’s process – your preference will depend on your country of origin. Re-enamelling and reglazing traditionally refer to processes that require the bathtub to be baked at high temperatures – a costly and often impractical solution. Although bath paint is available for DIY use, it does not provide the same longwearing protection that Mend-A-Bath International’s coatings do and is not recommended.
Q: Why resurface a bathtub and not just replace it?
A: Three main advantages are saving money, reducing intrusion time by workmen and adding value to your property. Mend-A-Bath International can save you up to 75% of the cost of replacing a bathtub, taking into account the hidden expense of retiling, replumbing and reflooring. Even breaking a single tile can have consequences if a matching one cannot be found. Resurfacing is a quick, ‘no mess, no fuss’ project when handled by our skilled technicians. It takes about three hours and you can start enjoying your resurfaced bathtub after 24 hours. Compare that to the disruption of having workmen in and out of your home for two weeks as they complete replumbing and retiling. If you have a quality cast iron enamel bathtub, resurfacing will restore it to its original glory and leave a brilliant, smooth finish. It adds enormous aesthetic appeal to your bathroom and can be an attractive feature when selling your home.
Q: Can I have my whole bathroom suite resurfaced or just my bathtub?
A: Yes, you can resurface your whole bathroom suite. The material is formulated for application on bathtubs, basins, toilet pedestals and tiles – and in the colour of your choice.
Q: Can I change my bathroom suite from colour to white and vice versa?
A: Yes. Many people choose to have their old coloured bathtubs resurfaced in a brilliant white, modern finish. With Mend-A-Bath International’s coating available in a range of colours, you can also resurface your bathtub to match your décor.
Q: How long will my newly resurfaced bathtub last?
A: Every bathtub is subjected to different conditions, so there is no definitive answer. However, if well cared for, there is no reason a resurfaced bathtub will not look good after 10 years. If you treat the bathtub the way you would treat the bodywork of your car, it will remain in excellent condition. Mend-A-Bath International’s resurfacing work carries a five-year written guarantee.
Q: How do I know whether it is time to resurface my bathtub?
A: Your bathtub needs to be resurfaced when the enamel coat has worn thin and you can feel pitting – a series of very small holes – or roughness. In some cases, you can actually see the cast iron or pressed steel base through the enamel coat. If the bathtub has lost its shine, or you can see metal or dark areas on the surface, we highly recommend you opt for a full resurfacing.
Q: I am not sure if my bathtub just needs a good clean.
A: It is possible that your bathtub just needs a good clean. Every few months or so we recommend a thorough cleaning using an ammonia-based agent with mild abrasive properties and a non-scratch abrasive pad. Apply the cleaning agent to the pad and scrub the bathtub surface. Rinse with warm water. If there is real dirt on the surface, this will remove it. Over the years, many bathtubs become coated in dirt and limescale, even with regular cleaning. This can cause mild roughness and discolouration. If this is the case and the surface is still in good condition, a good clean followed by a mechanical polish, using an electric polishing machine and car polish, may restore the smoothness and shine. If this fails to improve the appearance, the bathtub will need to be resurfaced by a Mend-A-Bath International technician.
Q: What do I do about the ugly gap between the bathtub and the tiles?
A: We fill the gap between the bathtub and tiles with our innovative Perma-Trim product and cover this with our bathtub coating. Perma-Trim is a smarter, permanent alternative to unsightly grouting or mildewed and dirty silicone. This is an optional extra step during the resurfacing process and can be colour matched.
Q: Is there anything I can do about reducing the slipperiness of my bathtub?
A: We can apply our special Slip-Resist textured pattern to the base of your bathtub during the resurfacing process. Providing a slip-resistant surface is an optional service, but is essential for hotel and hospital environments.