A refinished bathtub is designed to create a durable new surface, but like any coating, it needs to remain properly sealed and protected. If you notice peeling, bubbling, cracking, or lifting, one of the most common causes is water getting underneath the finish.
Once moisture finds its way beneath the coating, it can begin separating the finish from the surface below. What starts as one small area can eventually spread if it isn't addressed.
How Does Water Get Under the Finish?
There are a few common ways moisture can become trapped underneath or find its way beneath a refinished surface.
Leftover moisture before refinishing:
The bathtub needs to be completely dry before the coating is applied. Moisture hiding around the drain, overflow, seams, or other areas can become trapped underneath the new finish and potentially cause problems later.
An untreated hairline crack:
Even a very small crack can create an opening for water. If a crack develops in the finish and continues to be exposed to water, moisture can gradually work its way underneath and cause the surrounding coating to bubble, lift, or peel.
Caulk that isn't properly sealed:
Caulk plays an important role in keeping water out of seams and edges around your tub and shower. If the caulk isn't completely sealed during installation or if older caulk begins to crack, separate, or deteriorate, water can get behind the coating.
Small Problems Can Become Bigger Ones
A tiny crack or lifted edge may not seem like a major concern at first, but continued exposure to water can allow the affected area to grow.
If you notice a crack, bubble, peeling edge, or other damage, it's best to address it early rather than continuing to use the tub and allowing water to get underneath the surrounding finish.
Depending on the size of the affected area, a small repair may be all that's needed. If moisture has traveled farther underneath the coating, the loose material will need to be removed and the area properly prepared before recoating.
How Can You Help Prevent Peeling?
Prevention comes down to keeping water from getting underneath the finish in the first place.
Before refinishing, make sure the entire surface is thoroughly cleaned, prepared, and completely dry, paying extra attention to areas around the drain, overflow, seams, and edges.
After refinishing, periodically check your caulk and the condition of the finish. Replace deteriorating caulk when necessary and don't ignore small cracks, chips, or lifted areas. Taking care of minor damage early can help prevent moisture from spreading underneath an otherwise healthy finish.
Protect Your Refinished Surface
Water is part of everyday life in a bathtub, but it should always stay on top of the finish, not underneath it.
Proper preparation, well-sealed caulk, and addressing small areas of damage as soon as you notice them can go a long way toward protecting your refinished surface and keeping it looking great.