Any suggestions/answers fixing a porcerain on steel tub? (cosmetic ...I think = 0) )?

Question

We are renters, that live paycheck-to-paycheck, so unfourtunately we have to budget accordingly...

We're just trying to figure out an inexpensive way to refurbish (?) our tub that we think is a steel attached to the wall standard tub with a porcelain veneer.

We're trying to fix rust and general stains to the tub as well as chips to the porcelain (some quite large). Any help?

Answer 1

You can paint the tub with an epoxy based resinous paint. The paint comes in different collers and its consists of two containers, one which contains the base and the other contains the activation agent. You mix them both together according to the directions and paint it onto the tub with a brush. Make sure you follow the manufacturers directions otherwise if the mix ratio is not perfect it will lose its strengh and maybe even not dry.
It should be applied fairly quick since it toughens fast.
Aesthetically it wouldn't be great (it would vary depending on ur painting skills) but it will seal the tub and it will give it a glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratching

Answer 2

I know of "no" "cheap" way, if there were, it could be done everyday.
Go to Home Depot, they have the tub kits there, you can chose a color now also plus, pick up the rest of the material like sand paper and, you'll need the fiberglass resin for the chips in the tub that you said were big.

The kit $35.00 and the fiberglass for the chips about $15.00 plus lots of sand paper, steel wool and elbow grease. You'll need sponge brushes and one paint brush along with a pint of cleaning fluid for the brushes and the mess that I'm sure will come with it, don't forget the tape and plastic, the mess does get around. I think that should about do it.
I'm just guessing but it's going to cost you about $75.00 to re coat the tub.

Answer 3

Look for a bath and tile store and look to see if they carry a porcelain repair kit ( most do if not they will know where to get one). Mind you this will never look as good as new but will be better than looking at the Cast Iron beneath and the kits are pretty inexpensive. To answer about the stains, I am truly a believer in the power of C.L.R cleanser. you can find this at most grocery stores and local hardware store.. Read the directions on back then add another hour to let it soak in and do it's magic...If the stains are to bad call the landlord and ask about a replacement tub. Use this option last....
Good luck...
Jason

Answer 4

For your problem no 'cheap' fixes exist.
By the way, if the unit is solid it's probably cast iron, not steel.
Ceramic repair products do exist but they are of the cosmetic variety. You won't find anything that will fill in large breaks that is cheap.
I suggest putting on several layers of the cosmetic fix and see if you like it. Don't worry about messing it up for later. The MAX fix to a cast iron tub begins with sandblasting.

Answer 5

I once fixed a chipped washer/dryer and a tub like this -
Go to a paint store buy a small container of Epoxy paint - whatever color to match.
Apply with a pencil brush or an acid brush. (plumbing shop)