How to Paint a Vinyl Bathtub
- 1). Mix two drops of liquid dish detergent into a gallon of warm water. Scrub the vinyl with the solution and a scrubbing sponge to remove any mold, dirt or debris from the surface. The vinyl should be clean and dry prior to painting. Stronger cleaning chemicals may be needed to remove stubborn stains or buildup.
- 2). Sand the tub using a fine sandpaper to roughen the texture of the vinyl, which aids in the paint bonding process. Wipe away any loose sand with a damp rag once sanding is complete.
- 3). Apply a urethane primer using a roller or a paint sprayer. The primer helps the paint properly bond with the vinyl so it won't peel. Wait for the first coat to fully dry and then put on a second coat for best results. This also prevents the older color from seeping through the new paint.
- 4). Clean the roller or sprayer to remove any remaining primer and then use it to apply a urethane topcoat paint over the vinyl. This is more durable and water-resistant than oil-based or latex varieties.
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