If you recently had your bathtub reglazed to make it look brand new and modern again, congratulations! Reglazing can breathe new life into an old, worn-out bathtub and make your bathroom look bright and refreshed. However, there are some common mistakes people make with freshly reglazed bathtubs that can lead to damage or a short-lived makeover. Read on to make sure you're not making any of these reglazed bathtub mistakes after a bathtub refinisher works their magic.

Not Letting It Cure Long Enough

One mistake you can make after having your tub reglazed is not letting it cure for long enough. Most bathtub refinishing products take 72 hours to fully cure and harden, according to Architectural Digest. While Bath Magic uses a product that is dry to the touch after only four hours, it's best to wait at least 24 hours before use. During this time, the new surface remains somewhat soft and vulnerable. If you start using your bathtub too soon, then you risk scratching, denting, or otherwise damaging the finish before it has time to harden. Be patient and wait the full curing time before stepping into your tub or placing any heavy objects in it.

Not Cleaning Correctly

While it's important not to use your newly reglazed tub too soon, you also need to clean it properly once the specified curing time is complete. Stick to gentle liquid cleaners without grit or acids and soft microfiber cloths or sponges for wiping down all surfaces. If you use anything too rough or corrosive, then you could etch or scratch the finish. Your bathtub refinisher can advise you on the best products and methods for caring for your tub.

Leaving Moisture Behind

Since your sparkling new bathtub finish needs time to toughen up and properly seal, leaving puddles of water standing in it can lead to damage. According to Cook & Bathe, the average bathtub can hold around 200 liters of water. After using your tub, wipe down all surfaces with a soft cloth to soak up moisture. It's also important not to place wet bathmats or other damp items directly against the bottom or sides before they have a chance to dry. Allow airflow to circulate and evaporate water instead of trapping it against the coat of enamel. You want those first few weeks to be as dry as possible while strengthening occurs.

Allowing Hard Water Buildup

Hard water contains minerals that can leave nasty spots and stains on freshly reglazed surfaces if they're left to sit. To avoid etching or buildup as your new finish cures, be diligent about wiping off water droplets after each use with a soft cloth. This keeps your spa-like retreat looking impeccable.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Tools

It can be tempting to break out the brush, scouring pad, or other heavy-duty cleaner to scrub your tub, but hold off if you just had it refinished! Hard scrub brushes, scrapers, scouring pads, and other gritty tools can damage, scratch, or dull the surface before the hard enamel fully sets. Your bathtub refinishing company can recommend the proper types of cloths, soft wipes, brushes, and cleaning solutions to safely yet effectively clean while not undoing their handwork too soon. Trust their advice to help your resurfaced tub retain its flawless sheen.

Neglecting Re-Sealing

While a quality professional reglazing should last upwards of eight to 12 years before needing to be redone, according to our team, you play a role too for maximum longevity. Don't neglect this needed service. Get in touch with an experienced team to ensure your bathtub is well taken care of.

Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, you can relax and enjoy your renewed bathtub for years before needing to call your trusty bathtub refinisher again. Follow these tips to ensure your bathtub has an incredibly long, beautiful life ahead. If you're ready to learn more about bathtub refinishing, including whether it's an option with your tub, then reach out to us at Bath Magic today. We look forward to speaking with you and scheduling an appointment for bathtub refinishing services. A member of our team will be here to answer any questions you may have, so don't hesitate to give us a call today!