Painting outside of cast iron clawfoot tub

Betty Miller
by Betty Miller
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Any suggestion on DIY for this project. Outside of tub not in bad shape but while it is disconnected from plumbing now is the time to refinish the outside of it. Anyone have suggestions or experience to share.

  6 answers
  • Michele Pappagallo Michele Pappagallo on Jul 14, 2017
    I recommend sanding the tub well to make sure it is smooth, then using an oil based paint to seal and protect the cast iron. It is a little harder to work with, but gives a really superior result.

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Jul 14, 2017
    I've seen several home project shows take a steel brush to the outside and then spray paint with a Rustoleum paint.

  • Elizabeth Dion Elizabeth Dion on Jul 14, 2017
    I would recommend using an enamel paint on the tub. It well hold up better in the moist environment.

  • Lavica Lavica on Jul 14, 2017
    Cast iron tubs, whether an antique clawfoot or vintage built-in, responds well to porcelain paint (once sanded and smooth). These age tubs are not usually acid-resistant, so any paint you choose should be able to prevent/seal this problem. These kind of paints come in a spray as part of DIY kits. This link may be helpful to start: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/396809417138074187/. Good Luck!

  • Betty Miller Betty Miller on Jul 21, 2017
    Thanks for the answers. I ended up using rustoleum enamel oil base paint in hammered gray it went on well and looks good. First cleaned the outside of the tub with TSP to make sure clean and paint would adhere. Feet are being painted today in gloss black oil based paint when done will try to put picture on here to show finished bath.