Bathtub rust is typically caused by water that has traveled through corroded galvanized pipes. Rust can form on surfaces due to mineral and iron deposits left behind by hard water. This buildup can drastically shorten the period between purchasing a brand-new tub and needing to have it resurfaced.
The variety of bathtub materials, from porcelain and enamel to acrylic, is another consideration. Various disinfectants have varying effects on these components.
Enamel bathtubs are vulnerable to acids like vinegar, but acrylic tubs bleach easily. This is why you need to clean your tub in a way that is appropriate for the material it is made of. To be safe, test your cleaning tools and products on a hidden section of your tub before using them on the entire surface.
This article details the critical measures you must take to successfully remove rust from your bathroom. And if it gets to be too much to bear, there’s always the option of refinishing the bathtub.
Look for Rust in the Bathtub with a Critical Eye
You should be sure the rust stain on your tub is indeed rust before trying to determine the cause of the problem and a solution to it. It’s possible that the rusty appearance of your fixtures is actually the result of soap scum and hard water stain buildup. If the enamel of your tub hasn’t worn away and the metal underneath hasn’t been revealed, the problem is likely a stain and not rust.
The good news is that most stains are easily removed with the correct cleaning supplies.
Figure Out Why Your Bathtubs Are Rusting
If you notice rust instead of a stain, rather than cleaning it, you should focus on eliminating the rust. One of the leading causes of rust is exposed metal, therefore the first thing you should do is inspect your tubs to see if any of the metal is showing. Rust always seems to appear on the underside of the bathtub.
Because of the lack of a standard door, getting to this part of the tub can be a bit of a hassle. If you don’t have an access panel already, you can hire someone to put one in for you. As an alternative, you could try making a hole in the wall.
Tub Resurfacing: The Answer to Your Rust Problem
Your bathtub components can be fixed by yourself if the rust problem hasn’t spread too far. However, resurfacing is a job best left to the experts. You should consider refinishing experts’ services since they have received extensive training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of rust. You can rest assured that with their assistance, your tub will be expertly restored, resulting in increased longevity.
In Conclusion
Rusts form as a result of a chemical reaction that takes place when iron or iron alloys like steel are left exposed to the elements for an extended period of time, notably moisture and oxygen. If you have rust in your bathtub and don’t take the proper precautions to remove it, you may end up spending a lot of money on repairs in the future.
Hiring a professional restoration service, such as New Castle Tub Reglazing, is your best bet when dealing with rusty bathtubs. In addition to their proficiency in rust removal, they will investigate the issue thoroughly, identify its source, and make any necessary replacements. If your problem remains after a specialist has been hired, they should honor their warranty.
