If you’ve been researching bathtub refinishing products, you may have come across both Ekopel and Tub Cast and wondered what the difference is between them. In reality, these products come from the same manufacturer. Ekopel refers to our original pour-on refinishing system, while Tub Cast is the roll-on version of the same coating technology.
The Tub Cast name was introduced to help make the distinction between application methods clearer, since many customers were unsure whether they were purchasing a pour-on kit or a roll-on kit. While the application style is different, both products are designed with the same goal in mind: helping homeowners and professionals restore worn bathtubs without the cost of replacing them.
The main difference between the two products comes down to how the material is applied. Ekopel is known for its pour-on application method. With this system, the mixed coating is poured along the top edges of the tub and allowed to flow downward across the surface. As the material moves, it naturally levels itself out. A roller is still used during the process, but only to help guide the coating where needed. Because the material is designed to flow and self-level, many users appreciate the smooth, glossy finish that can be achieved with this method.
Tub Cast, on the other hand, is designed specifically for a roll-on application. Instead of pouring the material around the tub edges, the coating is applied directly to the surface using foam rollers. This approach can feel more familiar for many DIY users who are used to rolling on paints or coatings. Because the coating is rolled onto the surface, the person applying it has direct control over how the material is spread. Taking time to apply it evenly and avoid overworking the material is important, as the final appearance can depend on technique.
Another key difference between the two systems is how the coating process is structured. The Ekopel pour-on system is designed as a single coat application, meaning the refinishing layer is completed in one step after the material is mixed and applied. Tub Cast, which uses the roll-on method, is designed as a two-coat system consisting of a primer coat followed by a top coat. The primer helps establish a strong bond with the surface, while the top coat provides the final finish. Both systems are engineered to create a durable refinished surface, but they achieve this through slightly different application processes.
No matter which application method is chosen, surface preparation remains the most important step in the refinishing process. The tub must be thoroughly cleaned, free of soap scum or residue, and properly sanded so the coating can bond to the surface. Most refinishing issues, such as peeling or fisheyes, are typically related to surface contamination or preparation rather than the coating itself.
Ultimately, Ekopel and Tub Cast are simply two application styles of the same refinishing technology. Some users prefer the flowing, self-leveling nature of a pour-on system, while others prefer the familiarity of rolling on the coating. By offering both options, the goal is to give customers the flexibility to choose the method that best fits their comfort level and refinishing project.