Porcelain is a clay, which when fired in a kiln at very high temperatures it fuses to a cast iron or steel mold.  This process creates a very hard and vitreous surface that is impervious to most chemicals and abrasions.  However, after years of use the outer surface erodes and exposes a porous interior layer.  This porous under-layer traps particulate and begins to appear dark, dirty, worn out, and generally unsanitary.  The options for keeping the bathtub looking good at this point are: replacement of the bathtub, covering the tub with a plastic liner or refinishing the bathtub.
 
      Refinishing is sometimes referred to as re-porcelainizing, reglazing or resurfacing.  There is in fact no way to 're-porcelainize' a bathtub, as the original process required kiln firing, and this is not possible once a tub has been installed in an occupied building.  Refinishing is a process where a new coating is applied over the existing porcelain.  As with any coating process, preparation is the key to a successful application.  

 
      The entire refinishing process should take three to four hours from start to finish per bathtub.  The new surface should appear glossy and smooth much like the original porcelain did.  There will be a required cure time, during which, the bathtub should not be used.  The new surface should be cared for much like a new porcelain fixture.  One should avoid harsh chemical cleaners and abrasives.  For more information see our use & care instructions. 

      The refinishing industry is a rapidly growing business, especially here in the Northeast where there are plenty of older bathtubs in need of attention.  There is a constant flow of new and improved refinishing products on the market and one can expect refinished surfaces to last longer and longer as these improvements evolve.  The refinishing process is not limited to bathtubs.  We can also refinish tile walls, sinks and kitchen cabinets.

 Good luck with your refinishing projects!