Refinishing vs. Polymer coating
Bath Innovations Inc. strives to remain on the cutting edge of new technologies and processes for bathtub and ceramic tile refinishing and repair. We currently offer two processes for refinishing bathtubs. The traditional resurfacing/refinishing/re-glazing process involves the application of a new incredibly durable coating to an existing surface.
The polymer coating system involves cleaning and then coating the tub's surface in order to protect and seal the cleaned surface.
First and foremost, we take great care to insure that all of our customer’s personal property is fully protected. After this, we thoroughly clean the tub with a special cleaning solvent and a red pad to remove any existing soap and caulking residue from the tub’s finish. We then apply a stabilized and safe etching solution to the tub‘s finish. What this step does is open up all the tiny pores in the porcelain finish and cleans them out. Many customers think we are finished after this step because the tub will look clean and 100% better after this step alone. After the pores have been opened we apply 2 to 3 coats of our exclusive underwater epoxy primer adhesive which actually goes down into the pores of the porcelain surface creating a molecular bond that is extremely tough to penetrate. The etch/primer adhesive steps are the key to a long lasting finish. When these coatings have cured to the touch, we then apply 2-3 top coats of our exclusive acrylic urethane which provides a high gloss retention, impact and scuff resistance and protection against acids and solvents. The tub will need to cure for approximately 12 to 24 hours and will have a nice clean shiny finish that will repel soap scum and mildew. It will be very easy to clean up and maintain for many years. One can expect a refinished tub to last between 10-15 years with normal use and cleaning.
Polymer coating process
The second process we currently offer is referred to as polymer coating, seal coating or “the no-spray system”. It involves cleaning and etching the tub finish just as the traditional resurfacing method. However, after these steps instead of applying a new finish, the old finish is enhanced by using a clear urethane sealer that is applied with an applicator pad, sort of like waxing your car. A permanent bathmat is usually required to be installed in the bottom of the tub to cover up any scratches and/or blemishes that are usually present in tub bottoms. This process is usually used in commercial settings because of its quick dry time, you can use the tub the same day. The finish is more of an eggshell or low gloss finish and usually lasts about 6-12 months before washing away. Some companies tell their customers that there is a “lifetime warranty” on the product against peeling, flaking or chipping, and that is true to a certain extent. However, the finish will wash away after a while and will need to be re-coated, usually about once a year. For this reason, this system is mainly used commercially for apartments, hotels and motels who need to have their tubs maintained on a regular basis. It is a good system that certainly has its place in the market, but we feel that customers should be informed of exactly what they are receiving in order to maintain realistic expectations.
While we constantly explore and continuously test new innovations, technologies and processes in the refinishing industry, our etch, epoxy primer, urethane topcoat has always proven to be the best coating for long term results. This means your finish will last longer, giving you more value for your money.