Sooner or later, everything becomes worthless. This applies not only to things, but also to plumbing equipment. A bathtub, which until recently has shone with whiteness, after some time will inevitably turn yellow, lose its luster and become covered with a network of cracks.
Agree, a complete replacement of plumbing is an expensive and troublesome event. If the integrity of the bowl is preserved, then it will be possible to extend its life by repainting the surface of the bath. Such a service can be ordered from a specialized company or do the work yourself. The main thing is to choose a quality composition.
Before choosing the enamel for the restoration of the bath, you need to find out more information about the products presented in plumbing stores. We have described in detail the pros and cons, as well as the specifics of applying different compositions.
To make it easier for you to make a choice, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with an overview of popular enamels that have received a lot of positive feedback from consumers. Among them are goods of domestic and foreign companies.
What is enamel bath?
Each cast iron bathtub undergoes a complex enameling process during the manufacturing process. The enamel itself on its surface is a special glassy substance, which under special conditions is applied to the surface of the bowl. This occurs in several stages by spraying.
Enamel powder is applied to the very hot inner surface of the bath. Under the influence of high temperature during the firing process, it is baked.
In production, enamel is applied to the surface of the bowl under the influence of high temperatures, so a very strong and wear-resistant coating is obtained
This procedure is repeated several times until a solid enamel coating of sufficient thickness is obtained. It is clear that at home it is impossible to repeat this procedure.
However, manufacturers offer tools for the so-called cold enameling. She suggests that the enamel will be applied without firing. The resulting coating can only conditionally be called enamel, it will have other performance characteristics.
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Bath enamel result
The ability to restore with your own hands
Plumbing color change
Simple coating technology
Complete set of two-component enamel
Application of enamel by pouring
Spray application of enamel
Paint the bath with a roller
Home restoration: pros and cons
Before deciding to enamel the bath at home, its owners, as a rule, find a lot of positive and negative reviews from those who have already done this. Let's try to systematize them.
So, from the advantages of self-enameling can be noted:
- Aesthetics. The opportunity to get an updated bath without dismantling the old equipment and without carrying out related repairs.
- Availability. The cost of funds for restoration is relatively low.
- Self-painting option. Work on cold bath enameling, if desired, can be done with your own hands, therefore, save on the services of specialists.
- Color variations. Enamel, which is applied to the bowl, can have almost any color. It is obtained using a tinting agent, which is included with the enamel or purchased separately.
- Maintainability. The coating obtained in the process of cold enameling, is subject to restoration.
Home enameling also has disadvantages.
It should be noted that they are quite weighty:
- Fragility. The life of the applied coating is much shorter than that of factory enamel. It depends on the material that covers the bath. On average, such an enamel is enough for 5-8 years, after which you can apply a new layer of funds for restoration.
- Low stability to various mechanical damage. Even a not very heavy object falling into the bathtub from a small height can damage the coating.
- Chemical sensitivity. Bleach, paint, photo reagents, etc. compounds provoke a change in the shade of enamel.
- Exacting care. Cleaning products should not contain abrasives or bleaches. Ideally, the bath should be washed with ordinary soapy water.
We have listed the main advantages and disadvantages of home enameling. What outweighs, everyone decides for himself.
The so-called cold enameling at home is completely different than in production. The resulting coating looks like factory enamel only externally. Performance characteristics vary significantly
The only thing I would like to pay special attention to is the correctness of the restoration of the bath. If all the requirements of the manufacturer of the product are not exactly met, the new coating will not show the declared operational characteristics, it will be fragile and will last a very short time.
The process of applying an enamel coating to the inner surface of the bowl of your favorite plumbing involves several standard steps:
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We stick masking tape along the bowl contour, the edge of which should coincide with the edge of the future enamel coating of the bathtub. Do not forget to glue the mixer and remove the details of the overflow
The damaged layer of enamel coating is removed with a thin sandpaper, brush or grinder. The use of abrasive depends on the condition of the plumbing
Disposal of the damaged coating from my bowl with any household product, then degrease with white spirit
We apply a primer to the treated and degreased surface, increasing adhesion between the bath bowl and the enamel layer
If it is decided not only to restore the protective and decorative enamel layer, but also to give the plumbing a new appearance, we add color to the enamel that is suitable in composition and properties
We cover the bowl with enamel as described in the instruction from the manufacturer. Either apply it evenly with a brush, or pour it on the sides and wait until it itself spreads over the surface
After coloring, remove masking tape. We close the door to the bathroom so that drafts and airborne dust do not get there
We are waiting for the complete polymerization of enamel, the duration of this technological period is indicated by the manufacturer of the composition. Then we install the overflow and use plumbing
Stage 1: Pasting the contour for applying enamel
Stage 2: Preparation of the surface for the application of enamel composition
Stage 3: Degreasing the surface before enameling
Stage 4: Application of the primer to the prepared surface
Stage 5: Tinting the enamel to stain the bath
Stage 6: Putting the enamel on the bowl
Step 7: Removing Masking Tape
Step 8: Waiting for the complete enamel polymerization
What you need to know about enamels
Enamel reducing agents for baths are plentiful. They differ not only in composition, but also in the method of application.
Enamel can be laid on the base with a brush or roller. In this case, the composition should be quite thick. It is best to take a hard brush so that it makes it easier to rub the enamel on the base. It is advisable that the bristles from the brush do not come out, this will spoil the attractive appearance of the bowl.
Enamel is easier to apply with a roller. It distributes the composition as evenly as possible, but it is impossible to completely treat the entire bowl with a roller. Where it bends, you need a brush.
Another method of applying enamel is spraying. Professionals most often use a spray gun in their work. A liquid composition is poured into it, which is applied in several layers. For non-professionals, this option is often unacceptable due to complexity.
Perhaps the best way to apply enamel for bath restoration is to use a spray gun. This is exactly how experienced professionals work.
You can use a spray can with special enamel. With proper application, a sufficiently strong and uniform coating is obtained. If the work is carried out incorrectly, the color may be uneven and spots of different shades will appear on the surface of the bowl.
Some experts believe that enamel in the form of an aerosol is best used to mask small defects, but not to restore the entire bath.
When buying a product, you should pay attention to its configuration. Best of all, if it includes a means for pre-treating the bowl, possibly even with a special application tool.
It is desirable that tinting compositions are included in the kit, allowing you to get any desired shade. If a two-component enamel is purchased, it is worth looking at the color of the hardener. Dark tones are not recommended. They can give an undesirable shade to the finished product.
Varieties of compositions for cold enameling
Restoration of the bath can be carried out in different compositions. Consider the main types of varnish and varnish materials used for this purpose.
Two-component epoxy enamel
It is a suspension in which epoxy resin, fillers and pigments are present. The peculiarity of the material is a two-component composition, therefore, before application, a hardener is added to the solution and mixes well.
A ready-to-use composition must be used for a limited amount of time; it hardens quickly enough.
For applying two-component epoxy enamel, a brush is most often used. Using this method, it is possible to lay the coating as evenly as possible, without drips
The advantages of epoxy enamel include:
- after hardening the composition, a uniform, glossy, very smooth coating is obtained;
- good adhesion to cast iron and other metals;
- high wear resistance and strength - correctly applied coating can be cleaned with abrasive products, it will last about 15 years;
- epoxy enamel is insensitive to alkalis and acids;
- the cost of the material is relatively small.
Such enamel also has significant disadvantages. First of all, it is toxicity and a sharp unpleasant odor. When working with the composition, wear a respirator and protective rubber gloves. The material is prone to sagging, so the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the consistency of the solution should be strictly observed.
Given the high speed of hardening of epoxy enamel, you need to work with it quickly. This may be inconvenient for those who are trying to restore an old bath for the first time. Another minus - over time, the coating may turn yellow, this is especially true for compositions with a dark hardener.
Aerosol products
In the form of an aerosol, various enamels can be produced: epoxy, acrylic, one- and two-component. This must be considered when buying. The composition in the spray can is completely ready for application, you just need to shake it well.
Advantages of using aerosols:
- simple and quick application of the composition - no tools are required for this;
- aerosol enamel fits well, the coating is smooth and shiny;
- special additives in the compositions make it possible to imitate different textures, to obtain a pearlescent or fluorescent surface;
- it takes several hours to completely harden this type of enamel.
Among the disadvantages is the small thickness of the applied layer. The composition in the can is very liquid, due to the peculiarities of its application. It contains a large amount of solvent.
Therefore, the enamel lays on the surface with a very thin layer, which is quickly erased. For the same reason, the foundation must be carefully prepared.
Enamel in the form of an aerosol is very easy to apply to the bowl, however, the coating layer will be very thin and will not cover even small defects in the substrate.
Enamel from a spray can not cover small defects in the bowl, such as chips or cracks. Mixing compositions from different spray cans in order to obtain a new shade is not allowed. If the application of enamel did not comply with the manufacturer's requirements, it will lie unevenly. Leaks or streaks may appear.
Latex or Acrylic Enamel
Also known as liquid or bulk acrylic. The material is an acrylic two-component enamel, so it needs to be mixed thoroughly before use. As a result of using the composition, a glossy uniform coating is obtained.
The advantages of liquid acrylic are:
- high resistance to abrasion, as well as to various mechanical damage;
- thermal conductivity is low, which makes it possible to keep heat well;
- over time, the coating does not lose whiteness;
- the bowl covered with acrylic becomes non-slip and therefore safe to use;
- good adhesion to substrates of various materials: cast iron, steel, acrylic;
- simplicity in leaving.
There are also disadvantages to the coating. The material has a pungent odor, so you can work with it only in a respirator. Acrylic enamels do not fit well on a plastic base. To improve adhesion, additional preparatory work will have to be carried out and the base must be primed.
Preparing the bowl is done anyway. If it is carried out poorly, the coating will begin to peel off over time.
Acrylic or latex enamel is applied only by pouring, which implies a significant consumption of material. Information on consumption can be found on the packaging.
Liquid acrylic is applied to the bowl by pouring. This means that a thick composition is carefully poured onto the side, from where it flows down into the bowl on its own, forming a new coating.
This method of applying liquid acrylic requires a large amount of material, so its consumption is much higher than when applied by roller or brush. Accordingly, the financial cost of acquiring enamel is quite significant.
In order to cover the bathtub with liquid acrylic, you need to perform a number of traditional actions:
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Before pouring liquid acrylic on the surface of the bath, we remove the details of the drain-overflow. If the system is hopelessly outdated, stock up on a new drain device
To remove the old enamel layer that has cracked and absorbed dirt, we use a grinder with an emery nozzle. After cleaning, wash the container thoroughly
We prepare the mixture for applying to the surface of the plumbing for at least 15 minutes. The first 5 minutes, thoroughly mix the contents of the jar, then we introduce the hardener portionwise into it and thoroughly mix for another 10 minutes
Degrease the cleaned surface with a product recommended by the manufacturer of bulk acrylic. We carry out degreasing in 3-4 stages, each time using fresh, non-bursting rags
Substituting an unnecessary container under the drain hole, we pour the prepared liquid acrylic onto the sides of the bathtub
Evenly distribute liquid acrylic poured onto the sides, trying to ensure that the composition evenly covers all areas of the bowl
For full polymerization, liquid acrylic will take 24 hours. Then you can safely put a new strapping
We fill the bath with water and test the result of work. After taking the procedures, the coating of the restored bath should not bubble, crack, crumble anywhere
Step 1: Removing the Drain-Overflow System
Step 2: Surface Grinder
Step 3: Preparation of bulk enamel composition
Step 4: Degreasing the surface to be treated
Step 5: Pouring the composition onto the sides of the tank
Step 6: Distribution of the composition with a polymer spatula
Step 7: Installing a New Bath Trim
Step 8: Testing the restored bath
Overview of popular bath restoration enamels
The range of materials for restoration of the bowl is large, so it is very difficult to say which enamel for the bath is considered the best. For each bath, the composition should be selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of a particular product. Practice shows that such formulations are most in demand by consumers.
Reaflex 50 from the famous Tikkuril brand
Epoxy two-component material designed to restore enameled baths. Can be used for concrete pools. Available in white, high gloss. The manufacturer warns that over time, the composition may turn yellow. Only solvent is used to dilute the composition. Novopox.
Enamel can be applied to the substrate by various methods: roller or brush, as well as spraying at low or high pressure. For each type of application, a specific density of material is selected. Before work, you need to prepare the composition.
For this, four parts of enamel and one part of hardener are mixed. The solution can be operated for four hours after mixing.
When used correctly, Reaflex enamel gives a very good result - an even and uniform layer. It is with her that professionals prefer to work
The composition dries for a long time. Drying "from dust" occurs within one hour, and the complete hardening of the layer takes from eight hours to two days. After this time, each subsequent layer is applied. After restoration, the bath will be ready for full operation only after seven days.
Before starting work, the old enameled surface is cleaned, sanded to a matte state, washed and degreased. Further, priming with enamel diluted by 20% is mandatory. Reaflex.
After that, if necessary, defects in the base are repaired. Eight hours after priming, you can begin to apply enamel. It is laid in at least two layers.
Epoxin 51 and its variety Epoxin 51C
Two-component epoxy-based enamels. As the second component, a colorless transparent hardener of amine type is used, which protects the finished coating from yellowing.
As a result of application Epoxin a glossy uniform coating is formed. The working composition is quite thick, so it can mask small defects in the base.
Enamel Epoxin is available with a transparent hardener, so the reconditioned coating will not turn yellow during operation. All components in different packages.
The solution is mixed immediately before application. The exact proportions for mixing are indicated on the packaging of the material. The composition can be diluted with solvents R-12, 647 and 646. To apply enamel, you can use a brush or a roller.
After applying the hardener, the composition must be used within 50-60 minutes, after which it is unsuitable for use. The manufacturer recommends diluting the enamel separately for each of the applied layers.
Before starting work on applying enamel, the bowl must be thoroughly cleaned until the gloss is completely removed. Then sand all the defective areas present on it to a metallic luster. The largest of them are recommended to be putty.
The surface of the restored bath is freed from dust and washed. After that, in order to warm up, hot water is collected in the bowl for five minutes. This is necessary to quickly dry the bath.
After the hot water is drained, the bowl is wiped dry and dried. The first layer of the product is applied to the surface thus prepared with a flat brush. The composition is thick, which makes it difficult to apply, since leaks easily appear. They must be rubbed immediately with a brush.
After the first layer has dried, which takes about an hour, the second layer is applied. Full curing of enamel occurs in a day.
Aerosol KU-130 from KUDO
Enamel is made on the basis of modified artificial resins. Designed for restoration of enameled and ceramic coatings. The enamel coating is distinguished by high strength, good adhesion to various substrates, resistance to detergents and long service life.
The enamel is completely ready for use, before applying it, the container is thoroughly shaken.
KUDO bath enamel is very easy to use. It can be used to restore enameled and ceramic sanitary equipment
The manufacturer does not recommend working with the composition at an ambient temperature below + 10 ° C. The surface of the bowl before applying the enamel must be well cleaned and sanded. All base defects must be puttied.
The composition is liquid, so it does not cover even small flaws on the surface. The base must be degreased. To do this, it is recommended to use a solution Silicone Remover of the same brand.
On the prepared base, the enamel is applied in two or three layers from a distance of 0.25-0.3 m. After applying each layer, it is allowed to dry for 20-25 minutes, after which the next is applied.
Full drying of the enamel occurs in a day. You can use the bathroom restored with such a composition after three days after applying the composition.
Eco Acrylic Liquid Acrylic
The manufacturer produces several formulations that differ in additional additives. The line has an antimicrobial, fast-drying and bactericidal coating. All materials are enamels of a two-component type, require mixing before application to the bowl.
Liquid acrylic from Eco baths It has a low odor, non-toxic and completely environmentally friendly.
The use of liquid acrylic as a material for the restoration of the bath gives a very good result, provided that it is correctly applied to the bowl
For applying the composition, the filling method is used, and this requires certain skills. The consistency of enamel is such that it is applied without bubbles and sagging. No impurities in solution.
Properly applied coating will last up to 15 years. You can work with the composition only at temperatures from + 21 ° C to + 26 ° C, the temperature should be from + 23 ° C to + 25 ° C.
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Full polymerization per day
Enamel compound with shungite
Application for all types of plumbing
High adhesion bath repair products
Before applying enamel, the bath is thoroughly cleaned, washed from dust and dirt, and then degreased with acetone. The bowl is dried, and you can begin to apply the composition. It is poured in a circle along the sides of the bath and, if necessary, is distributed with a soft rubber spatula.
After applying the enamel to the bowl, it should dry for a day, after which it is possible to install the overflow.
Some enamels touted to be suitable for bath restoration are actually not. These include alkyd compounds. Theoretically, they can be applied to metal, but the surface should be especially carefully prepared and primed.
In addition, alkyd paints are prone to sagging, which is difficult to deal with. It is necessary to impose such a composition in at least three to four layers. Moreover, the service life of the coating will be only 5-6 years.
Watching a video is a great opportunity to see the practical application of enameling old bathtubs and learn basic skills.
How to properly restore the bath using enamel and brush:
We restore the bath with an aerosol:
What is the loading method - all the subtleties of the procedure:
Finally, I would like to once again advise you to carefully choose a tool for restoration of the bath. An abundance of such compounds can be misleading. It is important that the material is of high quality.
There is a certain guarantee when buying enamel of a popular brand. Otherwise, all the laborious work of preparing the bowl and applying the composition will not give the expected result and you will have to do it again or, what I really do not want, change the bathtub to a new one.
Have experience restoring an old bath and using enamel? Please tell our readers what tool you used, share your observations on the quality and ease of application of the composition. Leave comments and participate in discussions - the feedback form is located below.