enamel bathtub repair

[gA]

While removing some stains from the bathtub with pomice stone, my wife went through the enamel creating a 6" diam. 'dent'. Is there a best way to fix this? Thank you.

- gA

[Jim Yanik]

gA wrote in news:aAUck.86620$gc5.66941@pd7urf2no:

Enamel or porcelain?

the "best way" is to replace the tub. You can buy an epoxy patch kit,but color matching will not be easy,and it will not be as durable as the original coating.

you should not use abrasives on tub finishes.

[gA]

Thanks, Yanik. It's enamel and we have learned the hard lesson... Anyway we can patch it without the trmendous expense of replacing the tub and the tiles surrounding it (walls & floor)?

- gA

[do_not_spam_me]

There are bathtub repainting kits that include an etchant (acid) to promote adhesion and 2-part paint that cures very hard in just a few hours. Do not let your wife use it without first providing her extensive training in the care and repair of bathtubs. Tub stains should never be removed with pumice but only with much finer abrasives, including some cleansers (contrary to the company's claims, Bon Ami does scratch, and more than some cleansers not advertised as being particularly mild) or even toothpaste or polishes for cars and glass. But always try chemical cleaners first.

[gA]

Would you suggest a product or a website where I can find such a kit? I have looked all over without success and what you recommended make sense. Thanks.

- gA

[Joe]

Find a tub refinishing firm in the Yellow Pages. Many of these do nice work in our area, and the results are reasonably durable. Some even offer a warranty.

Jow

[gA]

Joe wrote: ...

We found one and they want $380 to repair a 4" diam. patch. I think it's expensive and I would be willing to do the work myself if I found the right method. Is hiring a Firm the only way? I know it might be the best way...

- gA

[Jim Yanik]

gA wrote in news:ic4dk.87464$gc5.49127@pd7urf2no:

there's a product called Klenks Tub N Tile for refinishing tubs. (the WHOLE tub)

and any home improvement store should carry epoxy patch kits for small area chip repairs.Both Home Depot and Lowes carry them. As I said before,color matching will not be easy.(that's why the pros usually do the whole tub..)

if you Google "tub refinishing kits",you can find out a lot more.

[<Frank>]

This is a good product but it will take much skill to get it smooth like the factory finish. Hence the $380 repair job.