How We Work
At Miami Valley Bathtub Refinishing, we take great care with every job. Our refined, multi-step process ensures your fixture looks beautiful, lasts longer, and restores that "new tub" feel — without the cost or mess of replacement.
Call for a Free EstimateBelow is a detailed walkthrough of how we approach each refinishing project for maximum quality and durability. We believe an informed customer is a happy customer — so we don't cut corners and we don't keep secrets about how we work.
Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your bathtub and surrounding surfaces. A technician meets with you to identify damage such as chips, cracks, glaze wear, or plumbing issues. We also confirm measurements, fixture types (porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, or cast iron), and understand your color or finish preferences. During this consultation, we explain the entire timeline and any decisions you need to make before work begins.
Once inspection is complete, we protect your bathroom by laying drop cloths and masking off walls, floors, faucets, drains, and surrounding surfaces. We remove old caulk, drain covers, overflow plates, and other hardware. Next, we sand the entire bathtub surface to roughen the finish for better adhesion. If cracks, gouges, or surface damage are present, we fill and repair them using appropriate fillers or epoxy repair compounds, carefully smoothing each repair flush with the surrounding area.
After repairs, we clean the bathtub rigorously to remove all dust, oils, residues, or soap scum. Then we apply a mild chemical etching solution to microscopically etch the surface, creating a profile that helps the primer and bonding agents adhere more effectively. The etching dwell time is monitored precisely, then the tub is thoroughly rinsed and dried to ensure no moisture remains.
With the surface prepared and dry, we apply a high-bond primer coat as a base. The primer helps the topcoat bind evenly. On top of the primer, we apply two coats of a specialized bonding agent that further enhances adhesion and durability. Each layer is allowed to flash off (partially evaporate) as required before the next step. This layered base ensures a strong chemical bond between the tub surface and the finishing coats.
Next, we spray multiple thin coats of the chosen finishing material — epoxy, urethane, or a hybrid formula, depending on the option you pick. Each coat is carefully applied to avoid runs, sags, or uneven texture. We allow proper flash time between coats to ensure solvents evaporate and the finish builds strength. After the final coat, we inspect the surface for consistency, smoothness, and full coverage.
Once the finish coat is set, we carefully remove all masking tape, paper, and protective sheeting. We reinstall drain covers, overflow plates, and any hardware or trim removed earlier. We also reapply caulk around the bathtub edges, drain, and overflow plate using a quality caulk to secure a watertight seal without damaging the new finish.
After refinishing is complete, your tub must cure fully before use. Depending on the finish selected, cure times may range from several hours to up to 48 hours. During curing, avoid opening windows, touching the surface, turning on fans, or disturbing the area so debris cannot settle. Once cured, we provide detailed care instructions: wait the full drying period before using, use only gentle cleaners, avoid abrasive pads and tape, maintain caulk integrity, and never place heavy or sharp objects on the surface.
By following these steps and using high-quality materials, we deliver a durable, attractive finish that brings your bathtub back to life. Each stage is executed with care and precision to ensure your investment lasts for years to come.
Call us today for a free estimate. We serve Dayton and all surrounding Miami Valley communities.