We have white tub/shower walls which are about 30 years old. Replacing them is out of the question because of the ensuing mess. They never look completely clean and we'd like to paint them. Can this be done? I think the material is fiber glass.
I would recommend going into your local paint store where they have knowledgeable staff. You have to be careful for a variety of reasons. The fiberglass has a very slick finish which would make it hard for paint to adhere to, and you are dealing with an area that has a lot of moisture and a lot of paints can mold in those situations. I am guessing that what you will need is to lightly sand down the fibreglass (wear a mask - you don't want to inhale it), and then prime and paint with a marine type of paint (like they use on boats). I have never done this so this is just a best guess from someone who has done a fair amount of painting.
There are also commercial services which can come and put a new "skin" on your shower/bath tub. I have seen the finished product and they look very nice. Be sure and ask about warranties, etc. and get references - then check them! (03/31/2008)
By Karla
If it were me, I'd call up a fiberglass boat maker like "Livingston" In Washington State, or better yet, just Google "Fiberglass Boats, Texas". Then call a local boat maker & simply tell them your problem and ask these fiberglass boat makers what they use to paint their boats! You'll have to be careful because fiberglass bends and moves. I'm sure a good high-adhesive primer like Zinsser 123 might be in order too, but before you do ANYTHING call several Fiberglass Boat Builders! Who knows, maybe they'll even sell you some of their paint?
It may be to strong for home use though. You'll most likely need a respirator and a sprayer to do the job right! You might need an "Epoxy Paint"? Before you DO paint or prime, be sure to wipe the whole thing down with rubbing alcohol. This is an artist's trick to remove any oil or residue.
*If you can't find any info on your own, write me on ThriftyFun, as my ex-sister-in-law works for & builds Livingston Boats.
---> PS Don't even THINK of having someone "Skin" your shower or bath... I live in a mobile home & had them come & do an estimate. They're bid was $3,400 or MORE! Can you believe it, in a TINY mobile home bathroom! What a MAJOR rip off! You're better off going to Home Depot. They sell this Vinyl board type stuff in white or off-white that looks like 6" tiles. Its called "shower backer board" or something like that? It can be cut with a jig saw. or sometimes just a box knife. If you know your dimensions they'll even cut it FOR you! SHEESH! It's so easy to install, even I (a 53 year old granny) could install it! In fact, It looks like I probably will do JUST THAT in my own place! All you need is a tube of matching caulk & several braids (tiny nails) & a hammer OR some industrial type glue. Easy as Pie, right OVER the other stuff! This way, you've skinned it yourself WITHOUT paying nearly Four Thousand dollars for the work! Those "Shower & bath Skinners" have REALLY got a racket going! (04/01/2008)
By Cyinda
Check if there is a service that refinishes tubs. There is one where I live and the work is outstanding, it looks like new. It costs more than paint but the results are worth it. (04/01/2008)
By mindy
Try cleaning it with WD40. Sounds stupid but I have been told that it works great. (04/02/2008)
By Dean Terrell
I had mine sprayed with a new finish. There are some companies that do this. I found several in the newspaper and yellow pages so I was able to shop around for the best price. They're like new. You won't be disappointed. (04/03/2008)
By Janene
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