How to Refinish a Bathtub: Step-by-Step Pour-On Guide

Tired of your stained or chipped bathtub? Replacing it is expensive and disruptive, but there's an easier way. In this guide, you'll learn how to refinish a bathtub yourself, step by step, from surface prep to final cure.

We'll use the Armoglaze Bathtub Refinishing Kit, an odorless, Zero-VOC, pour-on epoxy enamel. Its self-leveling formula is made for DIY homeowners and creates a thick, durable, high-gloss finish that gives your tub a like-new look.

Why Refinish Instead of Replacing Your Bathtub?

Replacing a bathtub typically means demolition, plumbing work and several days without a bathroom. Refinishing restores the surface of your existing tub in a single day for a fraction of the cost. A pour-on epoxy coating like Armoglaze adds a thick, glossy layer without the fumes of spray reglazing.

✅ Easy Pour-On, Self-Leveling Application

No streaks, brush marks or overspray. You pour the enamel and it levels itself into a seamless, high-gloss finish. Professional spreaders are included.

✅ No Acid Etching or Primer Needed

Prep uses a standard bathroom cleaner and sandpaper instead of hazardous acid-etching products.

✅ Odorless & Zero-VOC Formula

Safe to use in bathrooms with poor ventilation and in homes with children, pets or chemical sensitivities. See safety & EPA compliance.

✅ Durable on All Tub Surfaces

The epoxy bonds to porcelain, cast iron, enameled steel, acrylic and fiberglass, resisting peeling, chipping and discoloration.

What You Need to Refinish a Bathtub

The Armoglaze Bathtub Refinishing Kit includes:

• Part A: epoxy enamel
• Part B: hardener
• Mixing stick
• Plastic spreader for the tub walls
• Black notched spreader for the tub bottom
• Detailed instructions

You'll also need: 80–100 grit sandpaper (180–220 for acrylic), an abrasive cleaner, 91% rubbing alcohol, a razor scraper, masking tape and a hair dryer.

How to Refinish a Bathtub in 6 Steps

Knowing how to refinish a bathtub comes down to one rule: preparation decides the result. Follow each step carefully.

Important: keep the room and tub between 68°F and 77°F (20–25°C). After mixing, you have a 2-hour working window.

Step 1: Prep & Clean the Surface

Remove any old, peeling paint from a previous refinish. Use a razor scraper to take off all old silicone or caulk around the tub. Scrub the tub with an abrasive cleaner such as Comet to remove soap scum and grime.

Step 2: Repair Chips and Cracks

Every chip and crack must be filled for a flawless finish. Don't use generic car body filler, since it may not be compatible. Use the Armoglaze Repair Kit to fill chips, cracks and deep scratches, then sand the repair smooth once cured.

Step 3: Etch & Sand

Spray a bathroom cleaner such as Scrubbing Bubbles on the tub. While the surface is wet, sand the entire tub with 80–100 grit sandpaper (180–220 grit for acrylic or plastic). This creates a microscopic rough surface the epoxy can grip for a strong, lasting bond.

Step 4: Dry, Degrease & Mask

Rinse the tub until fully clean. Dry it thoroughly with a hair dryer, paying attention to the corners, until no wet spots remain. Wipe the dry tub with 91% rubbing alcohol or acetone. Mask the drain, overflow and surrounding walls.

Step 5: Mix, Pour & Spread

Pour all of Part B into Part A and stir slowly for at least 10 minutes. Pour the mixed enamel along the top edges and walls first, then guide it down the walls with the plastic spreader.

Step 6: Finish the Bottom & Cure

Pour the remaining enamel on the tub bottom. Holding the black spreader lightly, spread an even layer about 1/16 inch thick. Remove the masking tape near the end of the 2-hour working time, while the coating is still soft. Let the tub cure for 24 hours before use.

Watch the full process: DIY bathtub refinishing with Armoglaze

How to Care for a Refinished Bathtub

Clean with mild, non-abrasive cleaners such as dish soap or Scrubbing Bubbles. Avoid harsh chemicals, drain cleaners and abrasive scouring pads.

Bathtub Refinishing FAQ

How long does it take to refinish a bathtub?
About 3–4 hours of work, mostly prep, plus 24 hours of cure time. You have 2 hours to apply the enamel once it's mixed.

Does the Armoglaze kit smell?
No. It's odorless and Zero-VOC, which makes it well suited for indoor DIY projects.

Can a beginner learn how to refinish a bathtub?
Yes. Because the coating is pour-on and self-leveling, you don't need spray equipment or experience. The simplified prep with no acid etching also makes it easier and safer for first-timers.

What surfaces can I refinish?
Porcelain, cast iron, enameled steel, acrylic and fiberglass tubs. For shower pans, see the Shower Base Refinishing Kit.

Prefer to hire a pro?
Book a certified refinisher. Refinishing tubs for clients? Explore our professional training.

Refinish Your Bathtub for a Fraction of the Cost

Now you know how to refinish a bathtub without replacing it: prep carefully, pour, spread and let it cure. In one day, a stained or chipped tub can look new again.

Ready to start? Get the Armoglaze Bathtub Refinishing Kit