Thursday, November 16, 2023

Should I Convert My Jetted Tub

 Tuff Tubs is regularly asked, "Should I convert my jetted tub?" 

Is your jacuzzi tub out of date? Unused? Are you ready for a simpler solution to achieving a soaking sensation? At Tuff Tub Refinishing, jetted tub conversions are no problem. Additionally, it can save you hassle and hundreds of dollars – with a like new bathtub reglaze! Yet, to make sure a tub conversion is right for you, first there are some things to consider.


Jetted Tub – Some Considerations

If your jetted tub is operational, you should be flushing it no less than once a month. This will remove mold, particles, and debris that may become trapped in the hoses that deliver air through the system. Once the motor is turned off, water may recollect into the jets of the corresponding hoses. If flushing is not done on a monthly basis, you may be at risk of soaking in contaminated water – just plain gross!

Of course, sometimes the novelty of having a a jetted tub wears off and it may be months between uses. In that case, flushing your jetted tub becomes even more critical to remove the standing water in the hoses. Occasionally, the motors burn out or parts become obsolete. This makes a conversion an even better solution. Give Tuff Tub a call and find out if a conversion is a good fit for you.


Jet Conversion

This tub was in really good shape. So, we did not need to perform any repairs. Here are three steps to success:


First, jet insert removal.

Second, filling the holes with waterproof bonder.

Third, smoothing the marine grade filler and making the rest of the tub uniform. This is also necessary for adhering the final coat. 

We use only industry approved products for our jetted tub conversions. Our installers are professionally trained. Because we have a passion for excellence, we are honest and upfront. If you call us today, we can provide a free over the phone estimate. In addition, we repair and reglaze showers, sinks, tubs, countertops, and sinks!

 

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Deep Clean Your Tub


Not everything needs refinishing! Perhaps, just a deep clean. That may sound weird coming from a bathtub refinishing company. But, here at Tuff Tub Refinishing, we are committed to providing our customers with what they actually need. We do not try to up-sell or give low ball estimates.

A Good Old-Fashioned Deep Clean 

Many times we are able to save our customers money with a simple deep clean of neglected tile or tub surfaces. Here in Orange County, CA, many of us suffer from hard water. Unfortunately, our water has a high concentration of lime and calcium. In other words, it's the white stuff and water spots left behind on your shower glass when the water evaporates. Over time, these deposits can really become an eyesore. Abrasive cleansers like Ajax and comet will not remove them entirely. This is where Tuff Tubs steps in.

Quite often we can deep clean and restore the shine and luster for a fraction of the cost to refinish. You are already saving $1000's with a reglaze instead of a new bathroom – so this is truly a bonus!


A Good Old-Fashioned Company

Give Tuff Tub a call and see if we may have a non-refinishing solution for your fiberglass, porcelain or ceramic surface. We use industry standard, professional products, and are certified tub refinishing, reglazing, resurfacing installers. We can also do a deep clean on showers, sinks, countertops, and jacuzzi tubs!

Here it is, straight from the mouth of  a recent satisfied customer:

"My mom used Arlan to refinish her 40 year old tub.  She said he was professional, on time, informative and guaranteed his work.  She was impressed with his installer, Henry.  He was also on time, kind and did a great job.  She would highly recommend both Arlan and Henry!"

–Yelp Review

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Securing Your Tub Threshold

Often we come across a tub that has been converted for folks that have limited mobility. The threshold


may be too high for them to step over. There are several companies that do these conversions, but it may be difficult to determine which company will do the best job. Well, we suggest that whomever you choose, make sure they are licensed and insured, just like Tuff Tub Refinishing.

Securing Thresholds – weighing out the options

Some thresholds are limited in the weight they can bear. So, when that weight is excessive, they may crack.  At Tuff Tubs, our skilled technicians can completely reinforce the threshold. Even better, we repair any cracks in the process. In addition, we match the color and blend so that a full refinish isn’t necessary. Since we are not out to make a quick buck or up sell, we customize for your specific needs.


Securing Thresholds – weighing out the process

As you can see from the pictures, our process is detailed yet simple for securing your tub threshold.

  1. Assess the issue. Obviously, we see here that the threshold is cracked.
  2. Repair the damage. We not only remove the structural compromising cracking, we go that extra step. Bu making the surface flush, we match the contours of the bathtub, shower, sink, our countertop.
  3. Coat the contours. Thankfully, our sturdy waterproof coatings can almost perfectly match any surface texture.


Here is some good news for you. If you have need help securing your tub threshold or have any cracking in your tub, shower, or sink – Tuff Tub can help! Don't wait, call us today for an over the phone estimate. Then we can make your worries disappear, along with a cracked tub.

Again, here is what a recent satisfied customer says about Tuff Tub Refinishing:

"Marco refinished my bathroom sink and I couldn't be happier!  Showed up on time, worked efficiently, cleaned up perfectly, and did excellent, quality work.  Arlan was easy to communicate with, detailedwith the quote; and I think the cost was reasonable for the quality of work and time spent doing it. I highly recommend this company." –Yelp review

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Stop Soft Spots On your Surfaces


Sometimes we come across a tub or shower floor that has a soft spot. Often, it feels mushy and may even have a crack or make a cracking sound. Ideally, we want to address these problems with a sense of urgency before the crack becomes larger and potentially leaks. At Tuff Tubs, we have found a tremendously successful solution: reinforcement with expanding foam. We can stop soft spots on your surfaces!

Steps to Stop Soft Spots

  1. First, sand the entire tub.
  2. Second, locate the soft spot. By inspecting the area, we can see if a crack is developing. Generally, a crack will develop between a ridged spot and a soft spot. This means there is a cavity under the surface floor that has lost its support due to delaminating.
  3. Third, drill holes into the tub bottom and inject an expanding foam filler in the cavity. We know the cavity is filled when the expanding foam expands through the other holes. Next, cut off the excess foam and fiberglass over the holes.
  4. Finally, refinish the tub with 2 coats of an epoxy primer and 2 coats of our polyurethane coating. Two days later, enjoy your new Tuff Tub!


Here is a testimonial from one of our latest customers:

After kicking around the thought of doing a full bath/shower remodel, we decided to give refinishing a go with 2 of our bathrooms and try not to reinvent the wheel. Arlen was very responsive and his quote was competitive to others. We gave Tuff Tub a go. We are pleased with the results and highly recommend Tuff Tub for anyone that is looking to refresh their bath/shower at a fraction of the cost of a full remodel. –Yelp review

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Thursday, July 6, 2023

Fresh Sink Refinish

One of the least expensive ways to freshen up your kitchen is to refinish your sink. Under-mount sinks are


difficult to remove without damaging the surrounding tile. This is why a fresh sink refinish may be the most cost effective solution.

The Fresh Sink Refinish Method

When Tuff Tub refinishes a sink, we first etch the surface with a strong acid. Thankfully, this acid is safe for all plumbing. Then we sand and grind out any rust. Once the rust is removed, small recessed areas may be left so we fill those areas with a marine grade filler and smooth down. Next, we mask off any hardware and the surrounding tile or countertop. Lastly, we spray two coats of epoxy primer, followed by two coats of our polyurethane coating. We aim for a slick and shiny finish. When we are done, virtually nothing wants to stick to this surface!


Four Things To Remember

  1. We only spray coatings so the surface will not be as robust as the porcelain surface you had before.
  2. Due to the microscopic scratches it might leave behind, you should not use any abrasive cleansers on a fresh sink refinish. Think of what you would use on your automobile’s paint job. No harsh chemicals are necessary. A non-abrasive dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge are all that’s needed. What a relief!
  3. Wipe out your sink after each use. That way, water spots won’t collect on the surface and your sink will maintain its shine and luster.
  4. Protect the surface with hard plastic trays in the basins to prevent pots and pans damaging the bottom of your fresh sink refinish coating.

Following these pointers should extend the lifespan of your sink. Tuff Tub Refinishing offers a one-year warranty on our fresh sink refinish projects. The warranty covers any bubbling, lifting or peeling under normal wear and normal conditions. Although chips can occur, we can repair them for a small fee.

 


Here is a testimonial from one of our latest customers:

"Arlan was on time, professional, informative and guaranteed his work. His installer, Henry, did a great job and I highly recommend them both!!"

Yelp Review

 

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Friday, June 2, 2023

Fashionable Faux Granite Coatings


Is your once glorious countertop ready for an overhaul? Could it use a refresh? You do not need to start saving for a new kitchen remodel! Thankfully, there is another option! At Tuff Tub Refinishing, we specialize in faux granite coatings. We can bring a glimmer of light to your once grand countertop!

Fashion Tips About Faux Granite Coatings

First, a faux granite countertop is a great way to customize and refresh a dated looking kitchen. And the best part, it is for a fraction of the cost of replacing your counter! Most faux granite coatings apply thicker and need more coats. Thus, they have greater durability.

The Big Picture

The correct process for application is crucial. Three coats of a water-base texture, three coats of clear high-gloss or semi-gloss ensures the proper seal. Of course, a faux granite coating will cost a bit more than standard white. However, nothing beats the fashionable appeal. At Tuff Tubs, we can refinish: ceramic tile, cultured marble, and composite.

Three Steps To Glimmer 


First, to create a lasting bond for the surface of the granite, we sand down or etch and fill any cracks or holes. We then wipe it down with acetone. This allows the bonding process to successfully prep for the primer coat.

You guessed it, next we tape off the area to prep for spraying the primer coat. This protects the cabinets and other appliances from overspray. It also gives us a tight line for fashionable appeal. In order to achieve a uniform surface and watertight seal, we spray on an eco-friendly primer. Creating a level bonding surface with three primer colors of you choice, it is now prepped for the final reglazing coat. Three is the charm for fashionable faux granite coatings!

Finally, finishing touches begin. Your surfaces are then buffed out to glimmer like new! After applying three coats of clear resin, a tuff seal is ensured and its luster glows. Another fashionable faux granite coating project to boot!

Rest assured, your damaged countertops can be renewed. Faux granite coatings are in fashion. Give the folks at Tuff Tub a call for a quote and start creating your new look today!

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Monday, May 1, 2023

Choosing Your Refinishing Color Scheme

Often times at Tuff Tub, we are asked to refinish everything in white. We usually use a bright white, which is pretty standard in the industry. Strange as it might seem, white can come in a lot of different shades. Thus, bright white may become more than you bargained for. You might want to consider a different refinishing color scheme.


Sunglasses In Your Bathroom?

This is especially true if you are refinishing the surround, bathroom sink, and vanity. You may need to replace your light bulbs with a lower wattage or even wear sunglasses! It seems simple to us, getting blinded in your own bathroom is unnecessary and silly.😉

A Better Idea

This is why, a simpler and overlooked solution is to be more specific with your refinishing color scheme. Bathtubs usually look good and clean when they are refinished in white. Indeed, they will often compliment other bathroom fixtures such as your toilet and sink basin. Although this might be uniform and blend well, it could be an aesthetic nightmare. However, what if you created some intentional contrast at some natural lines or angles in order to add some depth? Perhaps a speckled brown sand surround to compliment the sparkling white tub? You might be surprised at how much more pleasant your bathroom experience could be.


At Tuff Tub, we have a large assortment of contrasting colors, textures and patterns to compliment your white. So you can achieve the bathroom you envision, our team is here to walk you through those steps to customize your refinishing color scheme. In addition, bathtub refinishing can cost hundreds or even thousands less than a new bathroom remodel. We follow all CA regulations for safe products and exceed our customers expectations with our care filled service. Maybe now is the time to get away from the sanitized hospital look and get creative!

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Monday, April 3, 2023

Preparing For Your Refinishing Project

Are you thinking about doing a bathroom remodel? Oftentimes a bathtub, shower, or vanity refinishing project is part of a bathroom remodel.


Where refinishing comes in the pecking order can make all the difference. If your refinishing project comes too soon, they might have to return to fix chips or dings, or generally clean up the mess of the other contractors.

Three things to consider when preparing for your refinishing project.

1) Have the refinishing team come last. Ideally the refinishing team should be the last ones in your bathroom. Painting, flooring, tile work etc. should all be done prior to tub, shower, or sink refinishing.

You don't want masking tape on your new paint! Therefore it is important to let your painting contractor know so he can prep the surface sufficiently. Even though the painting was done correctly, paint can still peel when masked off. Nevertheless, it is easier for a spot on a wall to be touched up than a tub or shower.

2) Hardware should be replaced. Nothing detracts from the look of a shiny new tub than retaining an old crusty and rusty drain flange or other hardware. Have it replaced or removed entirely before the refinishing team arrives so everything looks new, all at once.

3) Take care of leaks. Nothing can ruin a new finish like dripping water on a fresh coat of polyurethane. A good refinishing team does their best to protect the new coating from water drips by blocking the faucet or spout. However, sometimes our best is inadequate. Having a plumber repair leaks ahead of time ensures that the finish will not be damaged or contaminated by a leaky faucet.

 


Here is what one of happy customer said about Tuff Tub Refinishing:

"After kicking around the thought of doing a full bath/shower remodel, we decided to give refinishing a go with 2 of our bathrooms and try not to reinvent the wheel. Arlen was very responsive and his quote was competitive to others. We gave Tuff Tub a go. We are pleased with the results and highly recommend Tuff Tub for anyone that is looking to refresh their bath/shower at a fraction of the cost of a full remodel."

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

Thursday, March 2, 2023

San Clemente Cast Iron Bathtub Repair

 Is your bathtub cracking? At Tuff Tub Refinishing, every day we run into cast iron tubs that have become brittle over time. If your bathtub deteriorates for too long, the cost to repair or strip the entire tub may be involved. Thankfully, if you see any of these signs of wear or just want a fresh look, Tuff Tubs can provide an expert cast iron bathtub repair that lasts.

Bathtub Repair In San Clemente

This cast iron bathtub repair process was as easy as 1-2!

Repair. First, we chipped off the loose porcelain on a cast iron bathtub. Next, we filled it in with several applications of marine grade filler. Finally, we grinded and sanded the tub edge to match the contour. 

Coating. After our final spray of sealer, this San Clemente cast iron bathtub repair project was complete!

FYI. If a crack develops in the porcelain and it’s deep enough to go down to the cast iron, water can get into the crack and start rusting which will cause the porcelain to start separating.

Like these happy customers, you may not want us to refinish the entire tub, but just get close with our standard white. 

If your tub needs a full re-haul, here is our basic five step bathtub repair.

Prep. First, we remove all caulking and loose debris. This allows for tighter adhesion. Using sanding and utility knives, we precisely keep the surface as smooth as possible.

Repair. Next up, the cast iron tub repair. We apply our industrial strength filler and sand it smooth with a high speed grinder. Not only does this encourage a super flush surface, it also is an eye catcher as well!

Etching. For the sake of bonding, we etch the shower surface with an eco-friendly stain. Consequently, this achieves a porous surface to bond final sealer, producing a watertight seal. This important step in cast iron tub repair is performed precisely.

Primer and Coating. Fourth, we apply multiple coats of waterproofing paint sealer. As a result, you get a "new" bathtub!

cast iron bathtub repair _ afterSealer. After our final spray of sealer, the tub refinishing project is your own personal showpiece!

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

 

Thursday, February 9, 2023

Rusty Tub Eradication

As we covered in a previous post, a rusty bathtub is a symptom of a deeper issue. Before we can eradicate


the rust, we need to find the cause. Usually, the cause is a leak somewhere. So, water collects or pools causing the tub to rust. Once the source of the problem is discovered and eliminated, we can continue to repair and reglaze the bathtub, shower, or countertop.

Rusty Bathtub Repair

When you have leak or visible rust intrusion, it can seem like a daunting project. In fact, you might even be tempted to throw in the towel and do a full bathroom remodel. Please wait! At Tuff Tub Refinishing, we are experts at properly repairing a rusty bathtub and reglazing your surfaces to be a good as new. At what is more, you can save you thousands of dollars and days of bathroom functionality!

Six easy steps ensure a successful repair of a rusty tub:

  1. Etch the tub with an eco-friendly acid.
  2. Grind and cut out the rusted material.
  3. Apply a rust inhibitor. This keeps the bad stuff from coming back!
  4. Create a support and backing system. First, we use resin and fiberglass or wire mesh. Then fill in any irregularities with more fiberglass gel or marine grade filler. Tuff Tubs are strong and waterproof.
  5. Sand everything smooth. Aesthetic appeal is a bonus!
  6. Spray two coats of epoxy primer, followed by two coats of our polyurethane resin. You are now the proud owner of a Tuff Tub!

If you catch rust in your tub before it causes irreparable damage, we can help. Tuff Tubs has the right system for your needs, guaranteed. In addition, we are committed to personal customer care. By using CA chemical products policies, we show that you and our world are worth going the extra mile. Call us today for a free over the phone estimate, and let us help you eradicate your rust bathtub today!

rusty tub _ beforerusty tub _ after

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com

 

 

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Shower Refinishing In Fullerton


We recently traveled to Fullerton to tackle a gnarled tile shower. Not only was the tile out of date, but it was as if an earthquake had rocked the shower! Indeed, there were huge cracks on the shower floor, step down and wall-to-floor joint (see left). A shower refinishing project is born.

Shower Refinishing – The Good News

Yet, we see this all time at Tuff Tub Refinishing. No need to replace the shower. Simply put, we repaired the cracked tiles, then performed a shower refinishing that made it look like new!

Shower Refinishing – The Grind To the Glory

The basic process is pretty straightforward: we etched the surface with acid, wet sanded the surface, and then coated. Yet, here are the details:


  1. After we ground out the area and made irregularities uniform, we filled it with marine grade filler and fiberglass gel.
  2. Etched and wet sanded the tile and wiped down with either 100% alcohol.
  3. Sprayed on two coats of epoxy primer.
  4. Added two coats of our polyurethane coating.

All shower coatings are essentially waterproof, this eliminates the issues that come with uncoated tiles. Additionally, you have the option to have us remove and replace the shower door for a nominal fee. With a "new" shower refinishing like this, why not go all the way and update the dingy shower slider door!


Shower Refinishing – The Guarantee

We are in and out within hours, you can use your tub or shower within 2-4 days, we will shoot straight, so you can get what you need. We use eco-friendly products, make sure the work area is safe, and genuinely put professional care and effort into each project. You deserve no less. We also refinish, reglaze, and resurface bathtubs, sinks, and countertops. For an over the phone estimate, call Tuff Tubs today. Then, you can experience an unparalleled shower refinishing solution that lasts for years to come!

Tuff Tub Refinishing
26902 Calle Real
Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
949-391-3272
949-542-6191
info@tufftubrefinishing.com
www.tufftubrefinishing.com