By Bellevue Plumbing Pro
Although porcelain and enamel bathtubs and sinks are the most durable fixtures in a home, they are not invincible. You could chip the surface if you drop something heavy, such as a skillet or cast iron skillet. The repair is also easy.
First Aid
Start your DIY bathtub or sink repair at your local hardware shop. There you will likely find an assortment of epoxy repair kits. If you don’t have any at home, one of these kits will be required.
You should dry the chipped surface thoroughly before you begin any repairs. Next, use the sandpaper to make a few passes. This will remove any remaining particles and give the chipped area a rough texture, which will help epoxy form a stronger bond.
Epoxy is made up of two different solutions. Mix the two solutions according to the instructions on the package. However, don’t mix all of the solution at once. You will need to use epoxy in thin layers to cover a large chip.
Although most kits come with a small brush for application, you can also use a toothpick or a paintbrush to apply epoxy. This step should be done carefully. Follow the instructions on drying times. You should leave the area unattended for 24 hours after you have applied the final coat.
You can smoothen the surface with sandpaper if the epoxy has hardened. This or any other harsh cleaning should be done at least one week before you attempt to do this.
The Perfect Match
Most repair epoxies that you will find for sinks or tubs are white. Some are monochromatic, while others can mix in different proportions to create a variety of shades and a more exact match. If you are concerned, read the package carefully.
You can use enamel paint to touch up any areas that aren’t exactly the same shade. It can be difficult to find the right color of enamel paint, but there are several ways you can do it.
Ask the manufacturer about the color codes or swatches. If this doesn’t help, go to your local paint shop. To help you match colors, you can bring the chip that broke off originally. If you don’t, take some samples of paint to compare your results at home. Ask about enamel paint and the available colors.
Your chipped tub or sink may or may not be an easy fix. If the damage is too extensive or you are ready to make a change, please contact Bellevue Plumbing Pro at (509) 245-6477.