Ekopel 2K Tips and FAQs
Ekopel Uses
Can I use Ekopel on any bathtub?
Ekopel adheres to any bathtub substrate: cast iron, steel, previously painted, ceramic, and fiberglass.
How much Ekopel do I need to recast my bathtub?
In order to recast a standard size bathtub, 1 kit of Ekopel is needed. For a tub with surround walls you would need 2 Full Kits.
My bathtub is larger than standard size (garden tub or 2 person Jacuzzi, for example). How much Ekopel do I need?
Our kit is designed for a standard bathtub. In your case, you need one full size gallon kit and additional 1/2 gallon size kit (sold as the sink kit).
I want to recast a shower pan. How much Ekopel do I need?
To recast a shower pan only, our 1/2 gallon kit will be the perfect size (sold as the sink kit).
How do I recast my tub and surround together?
The way we resurface tub and surround units on a pro installation is by mixing and pouring 2 Ekopel kits starting at the top of the unit. Two kits need to be used at once and the walls must be leveled out quickly to prevent drip marks. The full instructions are listed in our surround kit product listing. We also have a Bathtub & Surround Kit video posted under our Training Videos tab.
Can I recast tile with Ekopel?
The way we resurface tub and surround units on a pro installation is by mixing and pouring 2 Ekopel kits starting at the top of the unit. Two kits need to be used at once and the walls must be leveled out quickly to prevent drip marks. The full instructions are listed in our surround kit product listing.
Bathtub Prep
Should I remove any old bathtub paint before applying Ekopel?
Yes. Paint, which peels off from the bathtub, should be removed in order for the new layer to have good adhesion and not peel off in the future. You can scrape off the peeling areas then use 220 grit sandpaper to smooth out chips and edges. If it continues to peel or it won't smooth out, we recommend using paint stripper to fully remove your old bathtub paint.
Should I remove rust before applying Ekopel?
Absolutely, the rust must be removed. Use sandpaper and then wash and dry well before applying Ekopel.
Is it necessary to remove soap scum and limescale from the bathtub?
Yes. All soap scum and limescale must be removed. To do so, we recommend scrubbing with Lysol power toilet cleaner. If the cleaner does not completely clean the limescale, the remains should be removed using sandpaper.
Should the silicone be removed from the edges of the bathtub?
Yes. Silicone must be removed completely. If the material is applied on a surface where silicone is not removed, the material may peel off.
My bathtub has chips, grooves, cracks. Will this material cover them?
If your tub has chips in the surface, they need to be filled with Epoxy or Bondo filler (purchased separately in any DIY-store). After the Epoxy or Bondo dries, smooth out the area by using sandpaper.
My bathtub has some places where the enamel is worn down to the metal. Do I need to do something extra?
The Ekopel will seal and bond directly to the metal. Before applying, make sure that any rust is removed. Grooves can be leveled using Bondo or Epoxy filler (purchased separately in any DIY-store).
Water from a closed faucet leaks into the bathtub. Will it interfere with the recasting?
It is necessary to eliminate the leakage, or turn off the water during the work and drying period to prevent water from getting on the bathtub surface.
What is the recommended sandpaper to prep with?
Do you have to remove all of the old finish?
How do I prep for pouring?
Is the primer needed?
How much primer is needed for a bathtub and surround?
How much material do I need for a clawfoot tub?
Why can't I use an electric mixer to mix?
What is the size of a standard tub?
How to Apply
What else do I need to recast my bathtub?
For your convenience, we have put together basic materials and tools into Ekopel 2k kit. Additionally, you will need: a roll of masking tape, roll of plastic or paper to protect the floor, blow dryer/heat gun, a knife, a brush to wash the bathtub, paper towels, and a solvent (isopropyl alcohol or acetone) to clean possible dirt or run off. We recommend that you wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty!
We also have our Pro Install Kit available.What is the proper bathroom temperature for applying Ekopel?
You should maintain at least + 72ºF one day before and during work. It is also recommended to heat the material to + 75-80ºF by placing a bucket with component A in a sink with hot water or placing the bucket next to the radiator a day before use.
How do I prepare my bathroom before I apply Ekopel?
Remove all items from the bathroom (towels, bathrobes, personal care products) and thoroughly vacuum the walls, ceiling, shelves and other places where dust would collect. This will help to avoid the dust from getting into the coating. Close the window so that insects do not come in and get into the coating. Prevent animals from entering the bathroom during the work and after, while the material is drying. Maintain the temperature in the bathroom atno less then 72 degrees for one day before the work, at the time of the work, and for 24 hours after applying the material.Save
Should I disconnect the drain from the bathtub?
If it is possible to disconnect the bath drain, we recommend doing it. It may be possible to disconnect the plastic pipe independently through the access panel. If you cannot remove the bath drain, then close the drain hole as discussed next.
How to prevent Ekopel from going into the drain?
Fill the drain hole with a paper towel. Then, seal the bathtub drain tightly with masking tape and carefully cut the masking tape along the contour of the bathtub drain. Disconnect or seal the upper part of bathtub drain pipe with masking tape.
Creating a dam with masking tape or a plastic cup can help make final steps a little faster and easier.How do I properly mix Ekopel?
Place component A in a warm place for 24 hours (for example, near to radiator). This will help greatly with the mixing process. The thicker component A must be mixed thoroughly with the liquid component B.
Pour the entire container of component B into the bucket with component A. Mix using a wooden stick (wooden paint stick, for example). Stir for 10 minutes. Pay special attention to the sides and bottom of the bucket to make sure that there are no remains of unmixed material. Then wait for 5 minutes and mix the material again for 2 minutes. Now your material is ready for application. For additional information, please see the video how to mix the material.
How do I apply Ekopel?
Ekopel is poured onto the bathtub, then leveled out with a foam roller.
Be sure to watch our in depth video walk-thoughs to learn all the tips and tricks for best results.Can the window be opened while the material is drying?
We do not recommend opening the window, because dust, dirt and insects can get onto the surface that has not yet dried up.
When should the masking tape be removed from the bathtub?
Masking tape, which is glued to the wall of the bathtub and located above the coating, should be removed immediately after applying the material. The masking tape, which protects the bathtub's "front apron" as well as tape covering the drain should be removed after the material stops dripping, which is about 5-6 hours after application.
Can silicone be applied on the material?
Silicone can be applied to the hardened material.
When can I use the bathtub again after applying Ekopel?
After 24 hours, if the temperature in the bathroom is no less than 72ºF, the material becomes sufficiently hard enough to take a bath. If the temperature is 70ºF, than bathtub can be used in 36 hours after application.
It is recommended to place pots, bottles with shampoo, and clean pets in the bathroom, in 7 days after application. Usage of colorants, such as hair colorant, various products with colorant which are used for taking a bath can be used in 14 days after application.
What is the recommended heat gun temp?
When do I remove the tape?
Product Information
How to clean and maintain your new tub after Ekopel Refinish?
We recommend scrubbing bubbles and tilex to our customers. For in depth cleaning magic eraser works well also. Any acrylic safe non abrasive cleaner is the best option.
Long term we recommend quarterly polish coats with our Bathtub Wax. This helps keep the tub easy to clean and prevents the need for hard scrubbing which wears down the shine over time.
How Long Do Ekopel Bathtub Coatings Last For?
The coating can last for 15-20 years or more if all recommendations for applying the material and careful operation of the bathtub is complied.
Avoiding abrasive cleaners and quarterly polishing and continue Ekopel's life indefinitely.
What colors does Ekopel come in?
Tints are only available if you ask. Tints are $50.00 and all our tints are non refundable and non returnable. We can tint Ekopel to be Light Grey, Dark Grey, Almond, and Bisk. To order a tint call or email us.
Proper Ekopel Part A vs Part B Proportions?
The amount of components A and B inside the package is clearly calculated for mixing. Mixing ratio by weight (A:B) = 100:17
Packaging is typically sized for full kit use.
What is the Ekopel expiration date? How to store properly.
The shelf life is 2 years. Store the product in a dry place, in a firmly closed container, at the temperature +50 to +70ºF. If the product gets frozen, it must be stored in a warm place for 24 hours before it can be used.
Where should containers be disposed?
Cured material can be disposed as general household waste. Mix residues of liquid components together and, after curing, dispose it as household waste.
Do Ekopel Bath Refinishing Products Smell?
The substance does not have caustic taste; the smell is very light, not intense. It does not absorb by clothes and disappears quickly.
It smells like spray cleaner, once mixed well any smell disappears.
Are Ekopel Refinishing Products Dangerous to health?
The material has been tested by the German Institute ISEGA and complies with the standards DIN EN 71-3 (Safe for children) and it is harmless when it comes into contact with skin. During the mixing and application of the material, we recommend using standard protection equipment for skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Is it possible to color your hair in the bathtub?
It is allowed to color your hair in the bathtub in 14 days after the application the material. However, it is necessary to wash the bathtub immediately after using the colorant so that the colorant does not go into the material.
Is it possible to use colored bath additives (salt, foam)?
It is allowed to use bath additives in 14 days after application of material. However, it is necessary to wash the bath after their use to prevent the paint to get into the material.
What is the Non-Slip Kit?
How rough is the Non-Slip Kit?
How thick does Ekopel dry?
Missing Scooper Box
Will the wax make it slippery?
Is the Bathmat machine washable?
What is the drying and curing time?
Is Ekopel heat resistant?
What is the finish?
Does Ekopel have a warranty or guarantee?
Can I tint Ekopel?
Can you apply a second coat of ekopel?
How to remove Ekopel from unwanted areas?
If you have ekopel in an unwanted area like the floor can heat up the area with a heat gun or hair dryer, and then scrape off what you can then scrape off what you can. From there use acetone to get the rest off. If its on your hands use ace tone with soap and water.
Troubleshooting
How to clean Ekopel off of wall tiles, flooring, or drain?
If the material has not yet hardened, it can be cleaned with acetone or isopropyl alcohol. If the material has hardened, heat this place with a dryer and scrape the material with a knife.
What should be done when dust or insects have got on the surface of the bathtub?
To remove an insect easily, heat this place by blow dryer and remove the insect with a sharp object. After cooling, polish this place with a soft cloth with rubbing compound. If a deep hole remains, use our ekopel touch up kit to repair. Places where a lot of dust can also be polished with a soft cloth and rubbing compound.
I discovered paint run, drips or bumps after applying Ekopel. What should I do?
Drips, sags, irregularities can be levelled, using 400 grit sandpaper, and then sand these places with a soft cloth and rubbing compound. If the defects have not disappeared, then another way to fix the bathtub is to sand down the whole unit smooth and recoat with a full kit of Ekopel 2k.
Yellowish Stain after Ekopel Application?
Yellowish stains are caused by not mixing the product well enough for long enough. The Part B will rise to the top hence the yellow spots. To get rid of the stains you can try a Mr. clean magic eraser and baking soda. That is the only thing we have found that will remove the yellow stains.
I dropped a heavy object in the bathtub and a chip is appeared. What should I do?
The chip needs to be repaired immediately. If this is not done, water can get through the chip under the paint and the Ekopel could peel off. To repair the chip, use our Ekopel Touch Up Kit.