Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Doing a Tile/tub reglaze. Would like info on brands.

Hi all. I've been reading the posts on bathtub and tile reglazing and think its going to be the best option for me. If you would like to talk me out of it thats fine, but I would really like for folks to help me find the quality materials so I can do the job the best I can. Specifically, brand names of epoxy primers and finishing glazes. I'm just trying to figure out if anybody has had good/bad experience with specific brands or knows good places to order online or even if you have tried something from HD/Lowes that works. Any help is much appreciated.

chris

Hi Chris,

I have not re-glazed my own tub, however, I am considering having it done professionally. ($250 quote) Most of what I've read (admittedly not a lot) says that is a job best left for professionals. If you DIY let us know how it turns out.

I was really looking for help on trying to do it myself. The best I've found so far is midwest chemicals. They sell the high solids acrylic urethanes and the silane primers. I was wondering if somebody has experience with this company and their products or another maybe.

I was looking at the tub a bit closer and the finish on it is in fantastic shape, its just that 50's blue color as is the tile on the walls. I'm now thinking I will try the tile first and if it goes very well then I might do the tub.

Anyone have experience with Midwest Chemical?

We've had 3 done professionally and they all use heavy duty equipment and ventillation masks. If you try this yourself, make sure you check into the safety aspects. You also need to vent the chemicals out a window.

Thanks for the tips allison. I already have the ventilation system with 15 diameter hose to pump out the window and the coveralls and chemical respirator and various other goodies. Do you happen to recall what brand of chemicals the pros used?

I've done two tubs in my house, one myself, the other professionally. I purchased the epoxy from home depot. I agree with previous poster, you definately have to get some sort of respirator mask, and I mean heavy duty. THey cost $$ and I am not so sure how well they work because I still could smell fumes. You have to make sure your tub is completely clean, scrub with tsp rinse,rinse and lightly sand. Then follow directions exactly! Cannot use tub for a couple of weeks so it cures. If you have any standing water in bottom of tub around drain it will eventually peel. Also be aware that the white will yellow with age.
The baby blue tub I had professionally done 5 years ago still looks good. They did all the cleaning, prep and I never smelled any fumes. I would not recommend doing it yourself unless it is a temporary solution until you can get it done professionally. I did end up having the one I did myself professionally done, had to pay more $$ so they could sand off the epoxy I put on. Good luck!