AAA Bathtub Refinishing Co. uses top quality etching solutions, adhesion promoters, primers, and finish coats. We don't adjust quality and amount of product used based on price.
Our etching solution and adhesion promoter are proprietary (made to our exact specifications). No other product/process combination will match the longevity of our custom prep products.
Don't be fooled by so-called 'miracles' 'super coatings' 'spray on liners' 're-porcelainized' 'spray on gel coat' 'mega super grip epoxies', 'lifetime warranties' and so on. I mean let's be real- your original surface failed after many years - how is a painted tub going to beat the original 1200* kiln fired porcelain or enamel surface?,
What counts is preparation, and how you care for the tub after it's refinished.
AAA Bathtub Refinishing Co. starts by using a four step preperation process. 90% of the job is preparation.
Your entire surface is scraped to remove foreign matter
We then clean your surface with industrial cleaners.
We then etch (etching metal is like sanding wood) your surface with a etching solution designed by bathtub refinishers for bathtub refinishers, or if it's fiber glass we wet sand with sandpaper.
We then clean your surface again.
Finally we apply bonding agents designed specifically for porcelain/enamel or fiberglass/plastic. There is no 'one size fits all' bonding agent solution.
We then meticulously prepare your surroundings to protect from overspray. This includes ventilating the area with high power exhaust fans.
After preparation we apply our proprietary adhesion promoter, professional grade two part primer, and finally the professional grade top coat material. We apply these coating to manufactures specifications. This equates to 18 oz of finish coat, and 16 oz of primer for a standard size tub.
AAA Bathtub Refinishing Co. gets inquiries on a daily basis asking us how many coats we apply. Here's a tip - it's not about how many coats. Coats can be applied thick or thin. The question should be how much material is used. In other words how many mils (millimeters) does X amount of product equate to when applied evenly on your surface. What does the paint manufacturer suggest to the refinisher to get the best all around result from their coatings?
Our coatings are ready to use in 24 hours.
Want a certain color? We can make any color you want. Just notate it in the check out comments box.
Care instructions for your new surface will be provided to you with your invoice. They can also be found by clicking here.
We could sell you a 'kit' to help maintain your tub. However, we would rather explain what you'll need for a lifetime of enjoyment from your new surface. We aren't big on up selling.
Shopping Around? Check the following before hiring any refinishing company - Is your tub refinisher licensed bonded and insured with the CCB? CLICK HERE TO CHECK How many names does the company have? More than one is a red flag. CLICK HERE TO CHECK
Information to help you understand the different processes bathtub refinishing companies may offer. There are two common methods used:
The chemical bond method for refinishing bathtubs, tile, and sinks. This saves the bathtub refinisher time and money since no etching or priming takes place (it takes time to etch and prime), and the cost of a good etching solution and primer is not cheap. This method relies on a chemical product referred to as a bonding agent, or adhesion promoter. Your tub is thoroughly cleaned (or else it will fail) and then the adhesion promoter is wiped on before applying the top coat (final finish). The chemical bond method does work if the tub is cleaned properly and bonding agent thoroughly applied. However, it's not as good as the mechanical bond method and this is why the mechanical bond method for more money. A much longer warranty is also provided when the mechanical bond method is used. That should tell you something about what method is superior.
The mechanical bond method used for refinishing bathtubs, tile, and sinks This method takes the bathtub refinisher an extra 1-2 hours, and the supplies used are expensive. Two extra steps are done to ensure a solid foundation for your surface. The mechanical bond relies on a solid etch (think sanding wood before priming) and a primer coat before the final finish (top coat) is applied. This etching and priming gives your bathtub the best foundation for many, many years of use.
So why doesn't everyone etch and prime if it's so much better? Time and, ultimately money. It's quicker, and there are less costs involved, to skip the etch and prime steps.
Again, the chemical bond method does work. It just doesn't work nearly as well as the mechanical bond method. (1 year warranty vs. 10 year warranty!)
We combine the mechanical method with the chemical bond method on every surface we refinish - and because of this we can offer a 10 year warranty with 110% confidence. We hope this information gives you the tools you need to not get confused when shopping around. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Know what you are getting for your money. Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.