My Experience With Painting A Fiberglass Bathtub

A few years ago, I moved into an older apartment with a less than desirable bathroom. The bathtub was chipped, stained, and just overall unattractive. I wasn’t able to replace the tub, so I decided to try painting it instead. After some research and trial and error, I was able to successfully paint my fiberglass bathtub and give my bathroom a much-needed facelift.

How to Paint a Fiberglass Bathtub

Step-by-Step Guide:

Clean the bathtub with a non-abrasive cleaner and rinse thoroughly.
Sand the surface of the bathtub with a fine-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere.
Apply a bonding agent to the surface of the bathtub.
Apply a coat of primer specifically designed for use on fiberglass surfaces.
Apply 2-3 coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas:

Choose a high-quality paint designed specifically for use on fiberglass surfaces.
Make sure the surface of the bathtub is completely clean and dry before painting.
Use a fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
Apply a bonding agent to help the paint adhere to the surface of the bathtub.
Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat to prevent drips and ensure even coverage.
Use a paint sprayer for a smoother, more even finish.
Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next.
Apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers on the painted surface as they can damage the finish.
Consider adding a non-slip coating to the bottom of the tub for safety.

Pros and Cons:

Painting a fiberglass bathtub can be a cost-effective way to update an old or unattractive bathroom. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before tackling this project.

Pros:

Cost-effective alternative to replacing the bathtub
Can be done in a weekend
Customizable with a variety of paint colors
Long-lasting with proper care and maintenance

Cons:

Requires careful preparation and attention to detail
May not be as durable as a professionally refinished bathtub
May not be suitable for heavily damaged or cracked bathtubs
Can be slippery if not finished with a non-slip coating

My Personal Review and Suggestion:

Overall, I was very pleased with the results of my painted fiberglass bathtub. It gave my bathroom a fresh, updated look without breaking the bank. However, I would caution anyone considering this project to carefully follow the preparation and application instructions to ensure a quality finish. Additionally, I would suggest adding a non-slip coating to the bottom of the tub for safety.