Refinishing Process
- To explain this process, we will use a bathtub as an example.
- First, we remove hardware such as overflow plates and drain covers.
- Then, we remove all contaminants including the silicone caulking surrounding the tub, soap scum and oils. This is critical to getting the finish to last for years.
- Next, we apply a poly cleaner to cut through all of the buildup and remaining contaminants from years of heavy and abrasive cleaners.
- Next, to minimize odor, an industrial exhaust fan is set up to remove fumes to the outside air.
- A cast iron or steel bathtub is a metal fixture with porcelain baked on to it at a high temperature, which gives it a glass like finish. Glass is a very hard surface that is not porous, making it ideal for bathtubs as it is highly sanitary and resistant to objects sticking to it. Because of this, a new surface won’t stick to it either. Most refinishing companies out there use just a bonding agent or a primer. At Norcal Refinishing we want the best adhesion possible, and to do this, we believe the original surface must be de-glossed so that a new surface can bond to tub, instead of resting on top. In order to achieve this, we double the adhesion by first etching the surface and then using a bonding agent and primer. This way, the coating has the best of both worlds and ensures the best adhesion possible.
- Once the primer is dry we use a tack cloth to carefully remove any dust particles left behind.
- A refinished bathtub is very slippery and suction-type bathmats are not recommended because they hold water underneath and water will eat through anything over time. To fix this problem, we apply some super small particles under the topcoat to create a built-in slip resistant bottom. When finished the tub is one beautiful color, but when standing in the tub you will notice a slight grip, although not so much that you can’t take a bath. Unlike other companies that charge for this service, we include it in our price because we believe that safety comes first.
- Finally, we apply the best acrylic polyurethane topcoat on the market with the lowest VOC’s in the industry. It is applied in three separate rounds using a professional HVLP spray system for maximum sheen and durability.
- The result is a beautiful new bathtub that will last for many years!
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