The Next Fix

Most people may have decided to remodel their bathrooms for one of their home improvement projects. They see the outdated colors of the sinks and the bathtubs yet do not know where to begin. They find replacing the tubs to be expensive so they decide to live with the tub without knowing there are alternatives to replacing the tub.

Chips in the bathtub or sink are also a tormenting thing many people deal with in their bathroom. The areas wear out and chip over time. The chips retain moisture and bacteria making the surfaces unsanitary as well as unsightly.

There methods to fix the crack and chips in the surfaces without spending a lot of money to repair the surfaces. The materials for fixing the surfaces are available at the home improvement centers. The materials are available in different colors to match the current surfaces, which make the repairs even easier.

It is important to remember the materials contain hazardous chemicals so it crucial to take the proper safety measures to avoid spilling the chemicals on the surrounding areas. It is also recommended not to have young children in the work area while repairing the surfaces. Proper ventilation is important to have also with this project.

To repair the chips, start by removing all the loose material around the chip. Etch carefully around the area with acid to create a good surface for the bonding. The chemicals are necessary to achieve a better bond so the repair will hold. Make sure to read all of the warnings on the epoxy resins and muriatic acids. Epoxy is widely used as a primer to improve the adhesion of paints. Muriatic acid must be handled with extreme safety precautions because it is extremely corrosive.

After the etching process is complete, fill all the chipped areas with polyester filler. The filler products bond well to a variety of metal and composite surfaces. They will accept all types of enamel, epoxy, lacquer, and paint stains once the surface is finished. Once the filler sets after application, sand lightly to smooth the surface.

Apply the primer and allow it to dry. Once the surface area is completely dry, paint it with the appropriate color of paint. Allow the paint to dry overnight. Use an artist airbrush to the surface to help the area blend into the other surface areas.

There are several things to know before repairing the surfaces. It is not always easy to match the color of the sink or tub. Even the standard white color is not really standard. There are many different shades of white as there are many different shades of other colors. It is for this reasons it is sometimes easier to resurface the areas instead repairing the surfaces.

Stainless steel sinks are beautiful when they shine. Make the stainless steel sink shine and return to the luster it once had. Take the time to renew the look to the sink that can be the focal point of the bathroom or kitchen it is in.

The benefits of the stainless steel sink are the sinks are low cost, lightweight, almost unbreakable, and they go with every décor. They are available in different styles, sizes, and shapes. They are easy to clean and very practical.

Stainless steel sinks are available in different finishes such as mirrored finish, brushed finish, and satin bowls with the mirrored rims. They are available in one, two, and three bowl styles. They can be shallow or deep depths ranging from 10 inches to 12 inches. The two bowls sinks are a great way to have a garbage disposal or additional sink that is common in most kitchens.

The cost of the sinks range on the manufacturer’s brand image, size of the sink, finish, and extra features of the sink. In 2007 Consumer Reports, they stated the material used to create the sink is more important than the manufacturer of the sink. They suggest buying the thicker stainless steel sink instead of the thinner materials used for the sink.

When the stainless steel sink is not cleaned regularly, it will become dull and scratched. This makes the sink lack the shining appearance that is so beautiful. The scratches in the sink can cause food scraps and soap scum to stick and build up in the sink. There are ways to restore the shine to the sink that are non-commercial cleansers. One such cleaner is vinegar. Vinegar removes the build-up as well as streaks and stains. Hydrogen peroxide will leave the sink sparkling. Club soda poured directly on the sink will revive the finish. Rubbing alcohol removes water spots as well as rejuvenates the shine. Lighter fluid removes rust stains. Baking soda does wonderful too.

Commercial cleaners that clean the stainless steel sink include Bon Ami, Soft Scrub, Bartenders Secret, Bar Keepers Friend, bleach, and Windex Multi-Surface Cleaner with vinegar. All of these cleansers can be found in a retail store or a home improvement center.

After the cleaning of the sink you will want to keep the shine by removing daily with warm water any acids, salts and minerals that will dull the sink again. Taking the time to get the shine back in the stainless steel sink will be worth the time spent. Taking the time to do preventative maintenance will allow the brilliant shine to continue for many years.