Refinishing FAQ

Many products are used during the actual bathtub refinishing process. The most obvious is the Coating, which will restore your tubs and counters to their original, brand-new appearance. Hard Tops of Central Nebraska uses a Polymerized Acrylic Urethane that is exclusive to Hard Tops. When used with Hard Tops’ Reducer and Catalyst the end result is a beautiful surface that will last 15-20 years with the proper care.

Hard Tops’ Coating, unlike many other coatings, contains a chemical called methyl ethyl ketone or MEK. MEK is a very powerful chemical that can dissolve plastics. When we prepare the surface for refinishing, Hard Tops uses a complete 4 step cleaning process to remove residues, oils, silicon, caulk and adhesives. The process includes wet sanding the surface to increase the surface area by creating small grooves and scratches. The Coating seeps into the grooves after application, creating a mechanical bond. The MEK actually helps to melt into existing substrate. For Porcelain and Tile fixtures, Hard Tops uses an exclusive bonding agent to create a chemical bond where a mechanical bond is not possible.

We carry both white and almond in stock, for bathtub, tile, and countertop refinishing. However, we can create or order any of over 1,000 different colors for a small fee, and can do custom tub painting jobs. We also have simulated granite finishes available.

Hard Tops of Central Nebraska product is not really a paint, but a polymerized-acrylic urethane, a very durable coating. Once the Coating is applied during bathtub resurfacing, and any other refinishing project, the product life ranges from 15 to 20 years, depending on how well you care for it. Our Coating is used on the outside of commercial airliners. If it can remain durable on the outside of a 747, it will remain durable after bathtub resurfacing and countertop refinishing.

It’s not impossible for a homeowner to perform bathtub refinishing, countertop resurfacing, or tile reglazing. However, professional refinishers are trained, and underwent months of practice, to be consistently, successful. To perform bathtub reglazing, or refinishing any surface, yourself, you need to train, find the proper chemicals and coatings, learn spray techniques, rent or buy the proper equipment, and qualify to access hazardous situations. Remember, if you’re unhappy with your own work, a professional refinisher will have to remove your work and start from scratch. In the long run this will cost you much more.

Cost is the primary reason for considering bathtub refinishing. Replacing a tub will likely require the removal of the surrounding walls, dramatically increasing the cost to install. Plus, the construction cost to repair and perfect the area after the tub installed can be enormous. On the other hand, bathtub resurfacing is a non-invasive process that restores your bathtub’s appearance and functionality without requiring any demolition and/or construction.