How do I refinish an old claw foot tub on the inside?

Helen Van Pelt
by Helen Van Pelt
We have a great old claw foot tub but can’t clean the inside because the porcelain is worn off?
Those are slip strips. You really can’t tell how bad it is from this picture. What are the products and methods to refinish this? Thanks
  6 answers
  • My vote is to have it professionally reglazed. I have had a number of tubs redone. With proper care, can last another 50 years. I had the tub done at my mom's house in 2007. Still looks brand new today.

    • See 1 previous
    • Oh no! That is not good at all. I am so sorry that happened to you. Did you do a background check and check their license? Here the the cslb site - it is a wealth of info. You can check licenses here too.


      http://www.cslb.ca.gov/


      Before you start a project, do a shout out here so we can help you out and we can help you hire a qualified, licensed contractor. California has a wealth of excellent contractors, but since we are such a huge state with millions of people, the probability of hiring not so good guys is higher than the norm elsewhere.





  • Joanne lueke Joanne lueke on Dec 31, 2017

    There are products at every hardware store for DIY re-glazing and U-Tube videos, but I agree having a professional do it is smart. I would at least get an estimate before trying to do it myself.


  • Emily Emily on Dec 31, 2017

    Oh, envy you your claw foot tub! I think the strips must be removed, but I don't think it costs too much to have the inside professionally sprayed.


  • Jan's Garden Art Jan's Garden Art on Jan 01, 2018

    While you are waiting to reglaze - try this cleaning tip. Go to the dollar store and buy the cheapest bottle of shampoo you can find. Pour the shampoo into your tub, use your hands to smear it all over...do not leave any part uncovered. Let sit overnight. Next morning, get a wet rag and wipe off the shampoo and rinse. No elbow grease needed. No harsh fumes/chemicals. This was my method of cleaning when I lived in a house with hard water and copper pipes and VERY old fixtures (rust). Worked better than CLR for me.

  • William William on Jan 01, 2018

    I agree! Have it professionally done. The tub and tile kits on the market don't last long. Shouldn't cost more than about $400.