When it comes to bathtub refinishing, there are two main types of coatings to consider. Professional bathtub reglazing is done with either Acrylic Urethan or Epoxy bathtub coatings. There are many manufactures that make these types of coatings but there are several standouts that deal almost exclusively in bathtub refinishing coatings, while some of the larger chemical companies offer them in addition to their other product lines. Store bought DIY refinishing kits are usually made with one of these types of coatings. Though the quality and or quantity of chemicals in the mix may be far less than professional grade coatings.
Composition and Material Characteristics
Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy tub coatings are know for their exceptional durability and chemical resistance. These coatings are made of a combination of epoxy resin and polyamine hardener. The product is mixed on site in precise quantities, because once mixed, it starts to cure. Any product not applied to the surface will have to be disposed of. Once cured, epoxy coats are resistant to impact damage, stains and chemical etching.
Acrylic Urethane Coatings: Acrylic Urethan coatings are a blend of acrylic and urethane resins. The combination of these chemicals offers a balance between flexibility and durability. It also offers exceptional adhesion, so it can be used on multiple types of bathroom fixtures. It is also scratch and stain resistant.
2. Application and Curing Surface Prepping:
The preparation of the surface for both epoxy and acrylic coatings is nearly identical. First hardware is either removed or protected. Then the surface of the bathtub is prepped. If we are dealing with a previously resurfaced bathtub, then the old coating is removed either with chemical stripping or manual scraping/sanding. Once we are down to the original surface then any surface repairs are done. Such as filling in tub chips or grinding out porcelain rust damage. Once these repairs are complete the bathtub is cleaned to remove any contaminants.
Epoxy and Acrylic Bathtub Coatings:
Depending on the manufacturers recommendations, the epoxy coat will either be sprayed on with a specialty refinishing application system, or it will be manually poured on. Once the coating has been fully applied it starts to cure. Which typically takes 36-48 hours. Also depending on the manufacturer, there may been a clear coat applied after there initial curing time to provide an extra level of gloss and protection.
These coatings are usually sprayed on with a refinishing application system. Acrylic urethane is generally easier to work with and lays down more evenly across the resurfaced tub. Some products offer a quick curing additive that can speed up curing time to just a matter of hours. Though most coatings have a 24-48 hour cure time. The faster curing time does not compromise the durability of the finish.
3. Aesthetics and Finish Options
Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy tub coatings are renowned for their high-gloss finish. When clear coated, these epoxy coatings are nearly indistinguishable from fiberglass gelcoat bathtubs. The reflective, clean aesthetic combined with durable characteristics of these coatings create a surface that is nearly as good as a brand new tub.
Acrylic Urethane Coatings: These coatings offer versatility in terms of finish options. Must customers choose a high gloss for their refinished bathtub. But they can also come in satin or matte finish. This flexibility allows homeowners more control over the aesthetics and functionality of their tub resurfacing project.
4. Cost and Final Considerations
While epoxy materials may cost more than acrylic coatings, the bathtub refinishing industry is highly competitive. So most refinishers try to stay within the same price range as their competitors. When it comes to the different materials. Ultimately it comes down to what the technician prefers working with. You can have the best material in the world, but if the person applying it is not familiar with the product, the final surface of the refinished tub will look horrible. Also in terms of durability, as long as you are using products safe for refinishing and you follow the recommended care instructions that your refinishing company provides you, then you will not notice a difference in quality between the two different coatings.
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