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How to Refinish A Bathtub

How to Refinish A Bathtub


bathroom with refinished bathtub and repurposed dresser vanity

Homeowner and DIYer Cynthia freshened up the bathroom in her Chicago home and takes us through the steps to refinish a bathtub and make the whole room look like new—without a full-scale renovation.

If you aren’t ready for a full bathroom renovation, this easy DIY may be your solution! Kits from Home Depot make this simple do-it-yourself project accessible to anyone. Plus, it will leave you with a bathtub and tile that look brand new.

Cynthia chose a simple floral wallpaper to complement her floral stencil on the bathroom tiles. The vintage sign, gold hooks, and shiplap wall all bring character to the otherwise simple space.

What You Will Need:

  • Homax Tough as Tile Refinishing Kit: spray-on option in the color of your choice
  • Magic Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit: roll-on option in the color of your choice
  • Mask: for protection from paint fumes
  • Gloves 
  • Safety glasses 
  • Painters tape 
  • Abrasive cleaner 
  • A fine-bristle paint brush
  • Paint tray
  • Grout and tile sealer (Cynthia used 24 fluid ounces)

What You Will Do:

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  • Clean and prep your surface so that you have a nice smooth starting point.
  • Sand away any peeling or chipped paint and fill any imperfections in the surface of the tub.
  • Scrub the surface of your bath and tile with your abrasive cleaner; wipe clean.
  • Remove all caulking and rinse; allow surface to dry.
  • Tape off the bathtub and tile to help keep any product from getting on the floors or walls.
  • Cover all bathtub hardware.
  • Now you’re ready to apply. Follow the detailed instructions included in the kit. 
  • Mix paint with the activator.
Cynthia did much of the work in the bathroom herself. The floor was originally a granite color that she painted white before stenciling on black floral designs. Cynthia found an antique wash sink that she custom made to fit with her small vanity. A primarily white palette helps the bathroom feel larger, while touches of warm wood colors keep the space from feeling too sterile.

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