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5 Tips for Painting your Bathtub

Creating a bathroom that reflects your personality and style is something we all strive for. This can be achieved in a number of ways, from changing your bathroom fixtures to completely scrapping your existing bathroom design. However, we have a simpler solution. Why not change up your bathroom by starting with the fixture that often draws the most attention; the bath. Painting a bath is a great way you can add your own stamp to a bathroom which is particularly nice if you’re moving into a space that has already been done up.

What types of baths can be painted?

Acrylic and cast-iron baths are the most suitable candidates for painting. With that said, here are some tips you can utilise if you’re planning to paint your bath.

Stay safe

As with any improvement to your home, it is important that you put your safety first when painting a bath. This may sound a bit much but bath paint is not pleasant when inhaled, and it’s vital that you are careful around chemicals. Wear a respirator mask, open the windows, and switch on your ventilation fan.

Choosing the correct paint

The type of paint you use will have a huge impact on the quality and appearance of your finished bath. Using a low-quality latex paint will leave you with a finish that will not last very long. Regular paint will not be able to withstand water. Acrylic polymer paints are one of your best options for an acrylic bath. Whereas for a cast iron tub, the bath paint must be suitable for metal. An oil-based primer and paint is best for this type of bath.

Brush, roller, or spray gun?

The method you use ultimately depends on your budget and preferences. Spray guns generally give the most professional looking finish; however, they can cost a pretty penny. If you want to use a spray gun on a budget then there are places where you are able to rent one for a lower cost. Spray guns can be messy. So, if you opt for the spray gun remember to cover and tape places on your bath and bathroom that you don’t want to paint.

Brushes and rollers are something that you may have in your cupboards already. Whilst they may not provide the factory perfect paint job that a spray gun may give you, they are certainly more accessible. Besides, if you take your time there is no reason why it can’t look just as good.

Different processes

Cast iron and acrylic baths need to be prepared and painted a little differently to one another.

Cast iron

The first thing you will need to do for a cast iron bath is to remove any traces of rust. Use a proprietary rust remover rid your bath of rust. Be sure to check the suitability of the cleaner prior to use. Once you have done this you can start to prepare the bath's surface. Take some emery paper to sand down the surface. Follow this up by removing any dust that remains on the surface. You can use an old rag and white spirit for this task. Simply wipe the rag over the surface of your tub and hey presto!

But you’re not done just yet. Before you can start painting the bath you will first need to apply a primer. An oil-based primer formulated for metal is the best choice. After this, apply an oil-based undercoat and ensure that you apply it evenly. When the undercoat is dry you can once again sand down the surface of your bath although this is optional. You can then apply your top coat.

Acrylic

Prior to painting, it is imperative that your bath is both dry and clean. Use sandpaper on the surface of the tub until it feels slightly rough in texture. Wipe away any dirt left over from the sandpaper with a cloth and some warm water. Once dry, you can able a thin layer of primer. Make sure the layer you apply is even.

When the layer of primer is dry you can apply acrylic polymer paint. You may need to apply more than one layer but this will be based on your preferences.

Selecting a new bath

If your bath is old and damaged paint alone will not be enough to achieve the look you desire. In cases like these, a new bath will need to be installed. If you want to paint your tub in a colour you know won’t find anywhere and you’re looking to save time, we have a few recommendations specially chosen by our team that come ready to be painted. All of the preparatory work listed above has been done and all you will need to do is select your colour, roll your sleeves up, and get started!

Heritage Baby Buckingham Freestanding bath

With a stunning traditional design and pretty ornate feet, the Buckingham freestanding bath is an elegant statement piece. The cast iron construction makes this bath durable and sturdy. This bath has a ready to paint surface.

 

Heritage Grand Buckingham Freestanding Bath

Luxurious and elegant, this bath will look stunning in both a traditional and modern bathroom suite. This bath is also supplied with a dark grey undercoat, ready for painting.

 

Heritage Madeira Freestanding Cast Iron Double Ended Bath

The Madeira showcases the very best contemporary design has to offer with a sleek form and spacious bathing area. Again, this bath comes ready to paint.

 

To sum things up, painting a bath tub not only is a great way to exhibit your personality but it may also save you from replacing everything. Remember that preparation is the key to having a finish that can not only withstand daily wear and tear but also looks good. Take all of our tips into consideration and we are sure that you will find painting your tub to be a breeze. For more guides similar to this one, stay up to date with our blog.

If you paint your bath be sure to take pictures, share them, and tag us to be featured on our page!