Cast Iron Tub Refinishing in Des Moines

A property manager in Des Moines, Iowa, sought to update a rental unit to make it move-in ready. The cast iron bathtub in the unit was in poor condition, showing significant wear and paint failure. Iowa Home Consulting was brought in to provide a professional tub refinishing service, giving the bathroom a much-needed refresh.

The starting point

The existing cast iron bathtub in this Des Moines rental property displayed severe paint failure, with much of the original finish flaking and peeling away. The tub was not only unsightly but also unhygienic and unsuitable for a new tenant. Additionally, the old caulk around the tub was deteriorated, presenting a potential issue for water infiltration.

What we did

The project involved a multi-step process to thoroughly refinish the cast iron bathtub. We began by meticulously stripping away all loose and flaking material from the tub's surface. This was a critical and time-consuming step due to the extensive paint failure. The tub then underwent a rigorous cleaning and surface preparation, including multiple cycles of scraping, sanding, washing, and drying, to ensure a pristine base for the new coating. Finally, a heavy-duty epoxy coating was applied in two coats, adhering to specific wait times between applications to ensure proper curing and durability.

Details that mattered

Due to the poor condition of the original cast iron finish, extensive preparation was crucial to ensure the epoxy coating would adhere properly and provide a long-lasting result. This involved careful removal of all failing material and thorough surface cleaning. During the process, it was noted that the existing silicone caulk around the tub had failed and was removed. While not part of the original scope, we communicated this to the property manager and offered to provide an estimate for recaulking, ensuring the tub would be fully sealed and ready for use after the epoxy had cured.

The result

The cast iron tub was transformed from a worn and uninviting fixture into a clean, bright, and durable surface. The heavy-duty epoxy coating provided a smooth, renewed finish, significantly improving the bathroom's appearance and making the rental unit much more appealing for future tenants. The successful refinishing eliminated the need for a costly and disruptive full tub replacement.

Considering a refresh for your rental property or home? Professional tub refinishing can be a cost-effective way to update your bathroom. Contact us to discuss your handyman needs and discover how we can help improve your space.