Can I Use Acrylic Paint on My Bathtub?

Hey there! If you‘re thinking about painting your outdated bathtub to give it a fresh new look, using acrylic paint may seem like an easy DIY project. But as someone who‘s renovated bathrooms for over 10 years, I want to make sure you have all the details before grabbing a can of acrylic paint.

There are definitely some pros to acrylics – they come in endless color choices, dry fast, and have low odor. However, bathtubs require a very durable finish that can withstand daily use, moisture, cleaning products and more. This makes 100% acrylic paint not the best choice.

In this guide, I‘ll share everything I‘ve learned from my experience remodeling bathrooms on using acrylic paint on tubs. I‘ll cover:

• The pros and cons of acrylic paint
• Recommended paint types
• Vital prep work
• Step-by-step application
• Dry times and curing
• Maintenance and touch-ups
• Problems to watch for
• Safety tips
• Painting vs reglazing tubs
• Alternative options

My goal is to equip you with all the information you need to get a beautiful, long-lasting paint finish!

Overview of Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint contains pigments suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion. It’s a water-based paint that dries fast, usually within a couple hours.

The pros:

• Dries quickly – you can do multiple coats in a day
• Endless color options to match your style
• Can thin with water for a smoother consistency
• Affordably priced at $20-40 per gallon
• Low odor and non-toxic when dry

The cons:

• Not as long-lasting as industrial coatings
• Needs additional sealants for water-resistance
• Can chip, crack or peel if not properly prepped
• Fades faster than enamel or epoxy paints

In my work, I’ve found acrylic paint works fine for things like walls, wood, or canvas. But surfaces like bathtubs, sinks, and tiles require paint that can withstand significant moisture, soap scum, and daily wear and tear.

That’s why I don’t recommend using 100% acrylic paint on its own for bathrooms. However, you can use acrylic successfully if you follow some specific precautions which I’ll explain shortly.

First, let’s look at the best type of paints for tubs.

Best Paint Options for Bathtubs

For maximum durability, I always recommend a high quality 100% epoxy enamel paint made specifically for tubs and sinks.

Epoxy paint is a two part formula that mixes resin and a hardener. This chemical reaction creates an extra tough, glass-like finish.

Epoxy stands up great to scrubbing, moisture, and everyday use. In my experience, it lasts the longest of any bath paint options.

Other good tub paint choices include:

• Catalyzed acrylics – Acrylic with a catalyst added for better hardness
• Urethane paints – Contain resins for an ultra glossy, durable coat
• Enamels – Specifically formulated for bathrooms

No matter what paint you choose, be sure it’s designed for sinks, tubs and high humidity. These paints are engineered to resist moisture and cleaning products.

You can find them at home improvement stores or online starting at $50 per gallon. Kits that include everything you need start around $150.

Now let’s get into the really important part – proper prep!

Prep Work is Key to Success

Preparing the surface is crucial for any paint to adhere properly without peeling or chipping down the road.

Here are the key steps I take before painting a bathtub:

Clean Thoroughly

Remove all dirt, stains, soap scum, mildew and any existing paint or coating using a tub and tile cleaner or bleach scrub.

I also recommend denatured alcohol on a rag to remove any oily residues left over.

Pro tip: Wear gloves and have ventilation, bleach and denatured alcohol can be irritating.

Sand the Surface

Lightly sand the tub surface with 120-150 grit sandpaper. This roughens up the smooth surface so paint can grip better.

Focus on sanding any areas where old paint is already cracking or peeling to “feather” the edges.

Wipe away all sanding dust with a dry cloth when finished.

Prime the Tub

Applying a primer/sealer designed for tubs helps the new paint stick tight rather than sliding off the slick surface.

Let the primer dry fully per manufacturer’s directions before painting – usually 1-2 hours.

Caulk Gaps

Seal any cracks or gaps around the tub with a flexible bathroom caulk. This waterproofs the edges so moisture doesn‘t seep under the paint.

Let the caulk cure fully before painting – about 12 hours.

Ventilate the Room

Paint fumes can be dangerous in enclosed rooms. Open windows and run fans to keep fresh air moving.

Wearing a protective mask is also a smart idea.

Okay, now the tub is prepped and ready for paint!

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting a Bathtub

Follow these key steps when applying acrylic paint:

1. Use Thin, Even Coats

I recommend several thin coats rather than one thick coat. Thinner coats dry faster and create a smoother finish.

Allow each coat to fully dry before adding the next – usually 60-90 minutes. Follow the brand‘s instructions.

2. Invest in Good Tools

Quality brushes and rollers make a big difference. Avoid old brushes filled with dried paint – those will leave streaks.

Disposable foam rollers work great for bathtubs. Angled trim brushes are perfect for corners.

3. Paint Vertically Then Horizontally

Apply the first coat using vertical strokes, from top to bottom.

Use horizontal back-and-forth strokes for the second coat.

This criss-cross method ensures you cover everything evenly.

4. Inspect Between Coats

After each coat dries, check for any thin patches or drips. Touch up if needed.

For hard-to-reach spots, use a small artist’s brush.

5. Finish with Clear Sealer

Once the final color coat is dry, apply 1-2 thin coats of clear acrylic sealer.

The sealer protects the finish and makes it more scratch resistant.

6. Watch Drips

Carefully wipe any drips on the rim or walls with a damp rag before they dry.

Painter’s tape prevents this – cover areas you don’t want painted.

Patience and attention to detail will give you a smooth, professional looking finish.

Dry Time and Curing

Acrylic paint dries quickly, but take your time before using the tub!

• Dry to the touch – 1-2 hours
• Ready for another coat – 4-6 hours
• Fully cured – 1 week

The longer you allow the paint to cure before use, the harder and more durable the finish will be. Have patience – it‘s worth it!

Maintenance Tips

To keep your painted tub looking it‘s best:

• Avoid abrasive brushes or cleaners that can damage the finish. Use soft sponges and non-abrasive liquid cleaners only.

• Re-apply a fresh coat of sealer every 1-2 years. This maintains protection from moisture.

• Immediately touch up any chips and scratches. Exposed areas allow moisture underneath leading to peeling.

• Expect to redo the painting process every 3-5 years depending on use. Properly prepped surfaces can sometimes last up to 10 years.

Troubleshooting Common Paint Problems

Peeling or chipping – Usually caused by poor preparation or moisture damage from steam or leaks. Requires sanding damaged areas and re-painting.

Cracking or dull areas – Result of applying the paint too thick. Can be fixed by sanding gently and adding thinner coats.

Discoloration – Common with lower-quality paints. Sometimes can be refreshed by cleaning and re-sealing, but often needs complete re-paint.

Leaks – Caulk gaps as needed to prevent moisture seeping under the paint causing lifting or bubbling.

Paint drying too fast – High humidity can cause fast drying. Try adding a paint extender if brush strokes are showing.

Staying on top of touch-ups and maintenance will keep your paint job lasting as long as possible!

Safety Tips

• Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator mask – fumes are dangerous.
• Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid irritation.
• Store paints safely out of reach of children and pets.
• Rinse the tub thoroughly with water after painting before use.
• Let empty paint cans dry out completely before disposal to avoid fire hazard.

It‘s also a good idea to lay drop cloths or sheets you don‘t mind getting paint on. Acrylics clean up easily with soap and water.

Comparing Painting vs. Reglazing a Bathtub

Painting involves simply applying colored paint to the existing tub surface. It‘s an affordable DIY option that lasts 2-5 years with proper prep and maintenance.

Reglazing is a process where a new porcelain enamel coating is sprayed over the old tub after sanding. This is done by professionals and lasts upwards of 10 years.

Key Differences:

• Cost – On average, reglazing costs $400-800 versus $100-300 for painting it yourself.

• Longevity – A reglazed coat typically lasts twice as long as paint before needing redone.

• Prep work – Painting requires light sanding while reglazing involves sanding down to the bare original surface.

• Application – Paint is brushed on vs reglazing is sprayed on to achieve a glass-like surface.

• Cure time – Paint dries in hours/days but reglazing takes several days to fully cure before the tub can be used.

For those on a tight budget or wanting a shorter DIY project, painting is likely the better choice. For a near-permanent solution less than replacing the entire tub, reglazing is the way to go.

Alternatives to Painting Your Bathtub

If you decide painting your tub isn‘t right for you, consider these options to freshen things up:

Bathtub Liners

PVC and acrylic-based liners go right over your old tub. This skips the painting and reglazing steps. Liners cost $200-500 installed.

Resurfacing Kits

DIY epoxy-based kits allow you to resurface without removing the tub, similar to reglazing. Kits run $200-400.

New Bathtub

For an all-new look, replacing the tub may be your best option. New tubs cost $200-1000 installed depending on type – fiberglass, acrylic, porcelain coated steel etc.

I hope this gives you a complete picture of what‘s involved with painting a bathtub! While it does require some work, properly prepping and using the right tub paint can get you a revitalized bathtub on a budget.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask! I‘m always happy to help.