How to Refurbish an Old Porcelain Sink
That old porcelain bathroom sink can be negatively affecting the entire look of the room. Age, stains and normal wear and tear can leave it looking a right eyesore. While replacing the sink is an option that will spruce up the bathroom, it isn't always feasible. Instead, why not strap on your DIY hat and refurbish the vintage porcelain sink yourself.
Things You?ll Need:
? Epoxy repair kit
? Paint scraper
? All-purpose cleaner
? Masking or painter?s tape
? Drop cloth
? Acetone
? Refurbishing kit
Step 1: Repair any Damage
Before you can refurbish the sink, you must first repair any damage. This can be done by giving the sink a good once or twice over looking for cracks, chips or other signs of damage. If any damage is found, repair before continuing with an epoxy repair kit. These kits are easy-to-use and typically applied in a similar manner as nail polish. Since every brand is different, however, you should follow the application instructions included with the kit.
Step 2: Clean the Sink
Carefully remove any old caulking from the porcelain sink with a paint scraper before cleaning. Once the old caulking is removed, thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the sink with an all-purpose cleaner. Make sure you'remove any soap scum, rust, dirt and grime buildup on the sink. Rinse the sink with water and wipe dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Protect the Surroundings
To protect the fixtures and drain openings from the refinisher paint, cover them with masking or painter?s tape. Don?t forget to lay down a drop cloth on the floor surrounding the sink. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen and you could end up with splotches of paint on the sink fixtures and floor. Protecting them with tape and a drop cloth helps prevent damage caused by paint specks.
Step 4: Apply the Bonding Agent
Before you can apply the bonding agent that is included in the refurbishing kit, you must first dampen a clean cloth with acetone, and wipe the surface of the sink. Allow the acetone to air dry. Next, shake the can of bonding agent for a few seconds before spraying the sink. You should hold the can about 6-inches away from the surface and spray the sink starting at the drain and working your way outward. In a sweeping motion, apply a light coat of the bonding agent with overlapping strokes. Continue until the entire sink is covered. Let the bonding agent dry about 15 minutes before continuing.
Step 5: Apply the Refinisher Paint
After shacking the can of refinisher paint and removing the cap, hold the paint about 6 inches from the sink drink and spray. Use short, even strokes to apply the refinisher coating and work your way outward from the drain. After you have covered the entire sink with the coating, wait for 5 to 10 minutes before applying a second coat. If a third coat is required, wait 5 to 10 minutes between coatings and apply the paint in the same manner as before. Allow the sink to dry completely before use. This could take 48 hours or more.
Tips
Every brand and type of refurbishing kit has specific application instructions that you must follow for best results.