How To Paint A Fiberglass Sink

Whether you want to change your color scheme or your sink is starting to look worn, an easy way to update your kitchen or bathroom is by repainting your fiberglass sink or tub. A fresh coat of paint is more cost effective than replacing the entire unit, and it only involves a few steps. Then, you can get back to relaxing bubble baths in just a matter of days.

Before applying a fresh coat of paint to your fiberglass sink, make sure you give it a good cleaning. Start with an all-natural approach by using baking soda. Apply a small amount of baking soda to a moisten a cloth or soft sponge, then scrub the sink. Wipe away any remaining baking soda with a clean wet cloth.

If this doesn't remove stubborn stains, you can up the ante with a mild abrasive cleaner. A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., LLC recommends Soft Scrub, Bon Ami and Brill-Glow. Scrub with a sponge until you see the stains improve. When you are done, wash off the cleanser.

If that doesn't do the trick, you can use products that specialize in removing calcium. You can use five percent white vinegar to remove calcium as an all-natural cleaner, or you can purchase Lime-A-Way and CLR. Follow the directions on the product, then wash off with warm water. But be sure to wear gloves while cleaning with these products. And only use these products once in a while, as they're not intended for regular bathroom cleaning.

If all else fails, try oxygen bleach — but only as your last hope. You can buy oxygen at a hardware store, or make it yourself. If making it yourself, add 1-part baking soda, 1-part hydrogen peroxide and 2 parts hot water. Put some of this mixture on the stain directly and allow it to set for one hour. Then, wash it off with water. Wear gloves while using this cleaner and ventilate the room as well.

Wear gloves and a mask when doing a sink or bathtub refinishing, and make sure the room is well ventilated. Remove any fixtures and tape up any areas that could get paint or putty on them. Today.com recommends filling in any substantial cracks and imperfections. Experts use epoxy putty and tub repair products.

Allow the putty to dry, then sand the putty so that it's even. Next, sand the whole sink or tub with wet/dry sandpaper. Professionals recommend using 400-grit sandpaper for the first go-around, then 600-grit the next go around. This will make the surface coarse and allow the paint to adhere better, as well as go on smoothly. Wash off any dust left behind from sanding and wipe dry. If you want to re-caulk as well, then remove the old caulk now.

You need to use special paints for sink, tubs and tiles. A great fiberglass sink paint is epoxy paint. Experts recommend Rust-Oleum Tub and Tile Refinishing 2-Part Kit and EP-Acrylic paints. Other types of interior paint will not work, because they cannot handle the amount of water and heat that a sink and tub require. These paints will crack and flake off over time.

If you are using an epoxy kit, make sure to read the directions first and mix thoroughly. Apply one thin coat of paint with a brush or roller and allow it to dry. Then, apply a second thin coat per the product directions. Do not worry if bubbles appear, as experts say epoxy self-levels and will smooth itself out.

Do not use or get the sink wet for at least three days. Epoxy takes time to cure, even if it appears dry. When the paint has cured, you can recall and put the fixtures back.