Does the Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit work? Well first of all what is it? The product I used is a one part epoxy by Homax and sells at both Home Depot and Lowe’s. Right from the box it says, “Tub, Tile & Sink provides a hard, protective finish that remains beautiful for years – even on surfaces subject to severe and frequent washing.” Well I didn’t apply this product years ago, but I did apply it 9 months ago and so far I’m pretty happy with the small investment.
The Prep
There is a muriatic acid procedure and a tri sodium phosphate (TSP) procedure. I wanted nothing to do with muriatic acid and went the TSP route. So you clean the tub and tile with the TSP, rinse, then use #000 steel wool and rinse again. Do this 2 more times according to directions. I did this clean, rinse repeat 5 times total because I wanted it clean! Let dry for 24 hours.
The Application
Now it’s time for the application. First you wipe down the tub and tile surround with a dust free cloth. You mix part B with part A, stir and put the cap back on. After 1 hour a chemical reaction has taken place and you’re ready to go. Give it one more mix and you’re on the clock. The instructions say you have 12 – 16 hours where the product is workable. I used the brush on method and boy was it a job. After I completed my first coat I really was concerned. It really was difficult to apply with the brush and I thought it didn’t look to good either. The directions say do not use a foam applicator or roller. It didn’t say anything about using a smooth surface 3/8 paint roller and at that point I figured as bad as it looked I was simply going to give it a shot. The brush left brush strokes even though the box claims that it doesn’t. Using the brush took forever also and the fumes are pretty intense. I waited the recommended 12 hours between coats and then used a smooth surface Purdy 3/8 roller and had much better success. It really went on smooth and I know I would have been happier with the results if I would have used the roller from the get go.
Final Thoughts
I’m satisfied with the results. I spent $80 for two kits whereas professionals would have charged roughly $1,000 – $1,200 to refinish both the tub and tile surround. Bathtub liners are roughly as much as $1,300 – $1,500 and that is just to cover up the tub. If I were to do this again I would go with the brush and roller method. Brush it on to get it into the cracks, crevices and grout lines and then roll over it to give it a nice smooth look. I also would have gone with three coats rather than the recommended two. My tub after only 10 years of use was completely shot and really could have used an extra coat. As far as cleanup I wipe it down daily and clean the tub with a sponge and dish detergent on a monthly basis.
Anyway, I just wanted to share my experience with my product and add a few opinions. How you use this product is completely up to you and your responsibility.