Bathroom color: 100 photos of fashionable design ideas and combinations

Sooner or later, a moment comes when the condition of the old steel or cast iron bathtub ceases to suit the apartment owners. The enamel layer wears out, becomes covered with a fine network of cracks, and loses its snow-white appearance. Deep chips of the enamel are also possible - for a cast iron bathtub they can be regarded as a nuisance, but for a steel bathtub they often become completely fatal, since corrosion eats through the metal.

Painting a bathtub with acrylic

Should you immediately consider purchasing a new bathtub? This option sometimes turns into a complete renovation. Imagine that you have to “pick out” the bathtub from under the lining, thereby damaging the finish, dismantle it, try to carefully pull it out of the cramped room, carry it down the corridor, and then up the stairs to the street. In a word, a very difficult task, especially if a heavy and extremely clumsy cast-iron model is removed. Therefore, many zealous owners pay attention to the possibilities of restoration work.

For example, painting a bathtub with acrylic can come to the rescue. A similar “fill-in” technology includes coating an old surface with epoxy enamel. The “bath in bath” method is also widely used, that is, installing an acrylic liner. In order to be able to decide on the choice of material and the technology for its use, it makes sense to consider all three methods.

How to choose a color for the bathroom

The main rule that most people adhere to is to decorate the bathroom in soft colors. The tiles must have a delicate shade, both on the walls and on the floor. This will create the illusion of spaciousness in a small room and preserve internal volume in a wide bathroom. That's right, but who said you can't use bright colors or dark colors in the bathroom? If you take into account one of the important factors given above and decide on the design correctly, anything is possible.

It is recommended to use dark shades in large rooms.

An important factor in choosing a color is the dimensions of the bathroom.

An important factor influencing the selection of colors should be understood as the size of the bathroom and its location. It can be not only rectangular in shape, but also, for example, angular in shape.

Bathroom in beige tones with white fixtures.

The rectangular shape is considered standard. It is convenient to place plumbing here, install pipes, and install interior items in accordance with generally accepted standards.

For a bathtub in a Khrushchev-era building, with a small size, given its tightness, combined with a toilet, light shades are really best suited. It is often beige with light brown streaks, light green or blue with a small pattern. For the floors, tiles of a similar tone, but slightly darker, are used to separate the horizontal section from the vertical.

For small rooms it is worth choosing miniature patterns, for large ones - vice versa.

A larger area allows you to realize more ideas and apply more contrasts. But here it is also important not to make a mistake with the color. Unsuccessful combinations will lead to the volume being visually lost. It is necessary to make the light tone dominant. Bright dark shades should create a harmonious combination of colors in the bathroom interior when paired with the main color.

If the room is decorated in dark shades, the bathroom can be chosen in light colors.

A small corner bathtub is not convenient for installing equipment of familiar shapes. The advantage is that there are no sharp corners. Such rooms usually have a shower cabin and compact round bathtubs with hydromassage. According to the layout, similar bathrooms are located in an apartment or a couple's house with wider rooms of similar functionality, where you can move more freely. Accordingly, the selection of color schemes should reflect the combination of two separate rooms, creating a unique ensemble.

bright bathroom with imitation wood.

Bathtub restoration with liquid acrylic

This method is also called “pouring”, since in order to distribute the acrylic enamel evenly, it is literally poured onto the surface of the bathtub. Many craftsmen additionally use special tools to distribute paint along the walls and bottom of the container.

Some features of bathtub restoration with acrylic enamel

When choosing this method of restoring an old bathtub, the following nuances must be taken into account:

Two-component acrylic enamel for the restoration of old bathtubs.

To work, you will need two-component acrylic enamel. Such compositions, for example, include “Stakryl”, “Finnaсryl”, “Ekovanna”. In addition to those mentioned, you can find other options for self-leveling acrylic, both domestic and imported, on sale.

The kit usually consists directly of acrylic enamel and a special hardener, which gives the material strength and promotes rapid hardening. The consumption of the finished composition per bath can be 3.5÷4.5 kg, depending on its size.

Each composition has its own characteristics. For example, during restoration work, “Stakryl” can be applied with a thickness of 2 mm to large surfaces of the bathtub and up to 8 mm to individual sections of it.

Prices for acrylic bath enamel FINNACRYL

Bath enamel FINNACRYL

The paint has high adhesive properties, so it lingers well on the surface of the bathroom. The coating is glossy and smooth, but at the same time does not slip when wet, is resistant to chemical influences and biological damage - mold will not settle on it.

Set "Stakryl"

The standard kit is a bucket with a capacity of 3.5 kg of liquid acrylic and a bottle (canister) of 0.5 liters of hardener. This amount is usually enough to restore a bathtub 1700 mm long.

Such compositions are a special innovative material, and it is practically free of disadvantages. Paint allows you to completely renew the bathtub, or disguise scratches and other minor damage to the acrylic coating.

Using the pouring method, the enamel is applied in one layer. If other techniques are used using a brush or roller, then there can be two or three layers.
The acrylic composition does not have an unpleasant pungent odor and is absolutely safe for people and animals living in a house or apartment.
After drying, the layer of this material is resistant to aggressive components, in particular to any household chemicals.
Acrylic can be used to tidy up a bathtub in any condition - it could be rusty deposits, scratches or even chips on cast iron items.
The drying time for the composition applied to the walls of the bath is 24 hours on dry summer days, and up to three days at high humidity.
The restored product can be used 72 hours after completion of the work.
The paint manufacturer provides a two-year warranty on the operation of the bathtub. Its actual service life is 15 years with careful use.

Acrylic plumbing products require special handling during operation!
If you follow all the recommendations, then such products will last a long time, practically without losing their original fresh appearance. How to care for an acrylic bathtub - read in a special publication on our portal.

Self-leveling acrylic is produced in a certain range of colors. That is, it can be not only the “classic” white version, but also black, blue, pink, beige, light green, purple or turquoise. If desired, you can individually order the desired color, which will ideally match the finishing material of the walls and floor of the bathroom.

Renovating an old bathtub with Stakryl.

Advantages and disadvantages of acrylic bathtub coating

Restoring steel and cast iron bathtubs using liquid acrylic has recently become the most popular method. But it has both advantages and disadvantages. This must be taken into account when choosing such an update technology.

The advantages include the following:

If all technological recommendations are followed and subsequent operating rules are followed, the acrylic coating will last at least 10 years.
Fast completion of work. A professional master will carry out the restoration in just 2.5–3 hours. Carrying out this process yourself will, of course, take more time, but it is quite possible to do it.
The appearance of the bathtub after the restoration will be radically different from its original appearance.
Liquid acrylic differs from other compositions in the absence of an unpleasant odor.
It is possible to independently repair minor damage, such as scratches. To do this, you need to have on hand a small amount of the composition of the same shade that was previously used for the restoration. Given this, it is recommended to leave a little acrylic for minor repairs.

The disadvantages of this material and the method of its application are the following:

Acrylic coating is not resistant to mechanical stress, especially from sharp objects. It can also be easily damaged by metal objects accidentally falling into the bathtub.
If the layer to the metal is damaged, if repairs are not made immediately, the acrylic will begin to quickly deteriorate, peeling off from the base.
Many are alarmed by the rather high cost of materials and work performed by a professional craftsman. However, the price of repairs is much lower compared to purchasing a new plumbing product and all the hassle associated with its replacement and subsequent finishing of the room.
After applying a layer of acrylic, the bathroom cannot be used for two to three days. Well, you can be patient, so this is a very far-fetched drawback.

Do-it-yourself bathtub restoration with acrylic

Tools for work

If you decide to do the work yourself, then, in addition to the acrylic composition itself, you will need to prepare some tools:

Tools and materials that will be needed to restore a bathtub with acrylic.

For the pouring method of applying acrylic, you will need a small container. It is better if it has a square or rectangular cross-section. With the help of such a device it is easier to distribute paint over the surfaces of the bathtub. To make a container, you can use a plastic bottle of the required shape from a detergent or other substance.

Making a container for pouring acrylic from a plastic bottle with a rectangular cross-section.

A rubber flexible spatula will be required to evenly distribute the bulk composition over the surfaces.
Electric drill with a mixer attachment - for mixing the composition from the original components
Painting tape for covering wall trim around bathtubs, faucets, and other items or objects that you don't want paint to touch.
If you are using a roller or brush to apply and distribute paint, it is recommended to have tweezers on hand to remove hair from the brush or lint from the roller attachment.

How to prepare a bathtub for restoration

To carry out restoration using paints and varnishes, which, of course, must be very securely attached to the surface of the bathtub, it is necessary to carry out a number of preparatory measures.

Powder detergents.

The first step is to rub the inside of the bathtub bowl with a dampened powder detergent. For this purpose, for example, “Biolan”, “Pemolux”, “Komet”, “Sarma”, etc. are suitable. This process will require ½ or even a whole jar of the composition.

Removing old enamel using an electric drill with an abrasive attachment.

Next, without washing off the cleaning powder, you need to remove the old enamel coating using an emery attachment, placing it on a grinder or electric drill. If there is no such tool, then a P240 cloth-based sandpaper can be attached to a piece of wooden block and manually remove the coating layer. Heavier and longer, so it makes sense to look for an “electrified alternative”.

Cleaning the bathtub from the old coating manually.
In addition to paper emery, you can also use stone emery to remove enamel. The layer of old enamel is removed until a metallic shine appears.

The surfaces of the bathtub must be thoroughly cleaned of dust. This is best done using a powerful vacuum cleaner.

After the work is completed, the bath should be dry cleaned using a vacuum cleaner, removing the brush from it. If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you should use a soft, dry brush to collect dry debris.
The next step is to rinse the bath thoroughly to remove abrasive particles and detergent. The bowl should be cleaned so that there are no even small fractions of any materials left on the walls. Perfect cleanliness is required.

After thorough rinsing, the bath is dried and heated with a hair dryer.

After this, the bath must be dried and warmed up using a hair dryer.
To protect the bathtub from water getting into it, and the faucet and shower from acrylic paint, the latter should be thoroughly wrapped in plastic bags, secured to the plumbing accessories with masking tape or rubber bands.

Mixing two-component automotive putty to repair chips.

If a cast-iron bathtub is being restored, then when cleaning it, deep chips may be found in the metal, which should be filled with putty. As a repair material, it is recommended to use automotive polyester putty, curing for 15-20 minutes, or a two-component epoxy mixture. After the repair patch has hardened, its surface is sanded with fine-grain sandpaper. The chip must be brought to the level of the main surface.

Degreasing bath surfaces cleaned of old enamel.

Next, the cleaned and repaired bathtub is wiped with a soft, clean cloth soaked in a solvent - a nitro-based composition, for example, “646,” works well.
As a result of the work carried out, it is necessary to obtain a dry, clean container.

The drain and overflow necks are dismantled, the areas around the holes are carefully processed

Don’t forget one more thing - it is advisable to immediately, even before cleaning, remove the necks and remove the drain-overflow system. It will return to its place only after the new coating has dried. After removal, it is recommended to inspect the metal elements, connecting pipes and siphon, since it is possible to replace them with new ones if the need is seen.
If the wall along the bathtub is already lined with ceramic tiles, then it should be protected from acrylic by sealing it with masking tape.

The process of performing restoration work

Restoring a bathtub with acrylic can be divided into four stages:

Surface preparation - we just talked about it in detail.
Preparation of the painting composition.
Application and distribution of acrylic composition on the surface of the bathtub.
The last stage is also very important, which is to create optimal conditions for drying of the applied restoration layer. The quality of the expected result and the durability of the updated bathtub depend on this.

So, the work is carried out in the following order:

Illustration	Brief description of the operations performed
	The first step along the bathtub prepared for painting should be to lay newspapers or plastic film on the floors. The same material must be used to cover the side of the container so that the paint does not get on these surfaces. If newspapers are used to protect the floor, it is recommended to fasten them together with tape so that they do not move during the work, or they should be laid in several layers.
	Next, it's time to work on the paint composition. In order for it to turn out to be of high quality, have good adhesion, and the coating to last a long time, it must be properly prepared. To bring the paint into combat readiness, it is necessary to mix liquid acrylic with a hardener in the proportion strictly specified by the manufacturer. It is necessary to take into account that the polymer acrylic composition has a thick consistency, and the hardener has a more liquid consistency. Mixing the two ingredients is quite difficult, and it can be especially difficult at first to “lift” the material from the bottom of the bucket. Therefore, before pouring in the hardener, it is strongly recommended to thoroughly mix the liquid acrylic itself.
	The next step is to pour the hardener into the acrylic, and begin thoroughly mixing the composition for at least 10 minutes. The paint must be absolutely homogeneous and elastic, otherwise the coating on the walls of the bathtub will likely contain layers that have not hardened properly.
	For mixing, you can use a mixer attachment mounted on an electric drill. There is nothing stopping you from doing this process manually, but mixing will take much longer. If the work will be carried out using a mixer, then you need to check the quality of the finished paint by manually mixing it with a hard plastic or wooden slat. There should be no hint of any discrepancies or inconsistencies.
	Next, you can move on to painting the bathtub. Moreover, taking into account that this is a complex and painstaking process that cannot be rushed, which must be carried out carefully and consistently. A bathtub with an old finish that requires restoration may look like the one shown in this illustration before it is cleaned.
	Before starting work, it is necessary to install a container under the drain hole of the bathtub into which the paint will flow during painting. For these purposes, you can use, for example, the bottom part of a cut plastic bottle.
	A bucket with fully prepared paint should be placed on the bottom of the bath. This will simplify the work process and also reduce the likelihood of accidental spilling of the composition.
	Then the paint is poured into a prepared container with a square or rectangular cross-section. It is also better to do this above the bathtub, since if a little paint spills past the container, it can be used for application on the surface.
Read also: How to protect yourself from explosions when working with a gas stove?	First of all, it is recommended to pour the composition onto the sides of the bathtub running along the walls. This order of work will help you avoid getting dirty with paint and reduce the risk of accidentally rubbing it off from a nearby side. The coloring composition should flow down the walls of the bath.
	Having finished filling the far edge of the container, proceed to similar actions on the front side. As the small container runs out of paint, it should be refilled.
	Next, using a rubber spatula, you need to remove excess paint that will accumulate in the corner areas of the sides. Only its top layer is removed, that is, the spatula should not touch the metal base. The layer to be removed should flow down the inner walls of the container.
	When the top of the bathtub is completely filled with paint, the filling of its inner walls begins. So that they are completely covered with paint, which will gradually flow to the bottom of the container.
	When most of the walls are covered with a layer of paint, enough paint will accumulate at the bottom of the bathtub to paint the remaining surface. To carry out this process, the same rubber spatula is used, with which, without pressure, with smooth movements, the composition is evenly distributed along the lower part of the walls and the bottom of the container.
	Excess paint collected at the bottom is carefully drained into the drain hole, under which a plastic container is installed. It is very important to carefully distribute the paint around the drain hole, as quite often a thicker layer of paint will remain in this area as it flows into the drain. Therefore, it does not dry out along with the rest of the layer, and when installed in the hole of the drain neck, it can be damaged.
	After the work is completed, it is necessary to check the applied layer of paint for evenness of its distribution. To do this, turn off the lights in the room and turn on the flashlight, or illuminate the surface using your phone. Shadows falling from directional light will immediately reveal all the irregularities.
	If unevenness is discovered, then while the paint has not yet set and hardened, they can be smoothed out with a spatula.
	It is advisable to carry out such adjustment until the layer is perfectly even. But at the same time, it is necessary to ensure that it does not begin to set, since in this case, folds may remain from the spatula.
	Some craftsmen recommend that after leveling the paint, dry the layer a little using a hair dryer. This process will speed up the setting of the composition, thereby avoiding the formation of smudges. Other experts, on the contrary, advise leaving the coating to dry exclusively naturally.
	If small air bubbles form on the coating, go over them lightly, without pressure, with a soft brush. But only this can be done on paint that has not set, otherwise irreparable marks will remain on the surface. If brush marks form on a newly applied coating, they will disappear after a few minutes and will be healed due to the force of surface tension.

Operation of the bathtub is allowed after 24 hours if the temperature in the room remains at least +25 degrees during the work and during the drying period. At a temperature of +20 degrees, the paint will dry for two days, and at +17 - in no less than 72 hours. However, it is better not to use the bath for three days at any temperature, since during this time the paint layer will definitely harden well and acquire the proper strength.

How do colors affect a person?

Today, a bathroom can be decorated with absolutely any color or shade. High-quality furniture, accessories and fittings will help complement the visual perception of colors.

When choosing a color for a bathroom, it is recommended to consider several criteria. Each shade has a specific effect on well-being and emotional background:

Red. It stimulates metabolic processes and activates the perception of the brain center. It is used for large rooms. In addition, multi-level lighting is used here. It reduces the concentration of bright colors and has a positive effect on emotional perception. For contrast, use white or black.

Orange. This shade belongs to a number of antidepressants. It helps to cheer up early in the morning and relax after a hard day. Warm lighting allows you to add coziness and a bit of warmth.

Yellow. Prolonged stay in such a room can provoke increased excitability and emotional imbalance.

Green. This shade stimulates the flow of physical activity and charges with positive energy. Thanks to him, he manages to collect his thoughts.

Turquoise. It helps you relax. This color tones and creates a feeling of complete comfort. The abundance of glossy details creates a refined atmosphere in the relaxation area.

White. It is a favorite among most modern designers. It gives the room a feeling of crystal purity. A white bathroom reflects the internal state of its owner.

Blue. It is often used in rooms with south-facing windows. There is always bright sun here. The blue tint has a cooling effect. To reveal the depth of this shade, flood lighting is used.

Bathtub restoration with epoxy enamel

The technology of restoring a bathtub coating using epoxy enamel cannot be called new, since it has been widely used for more than thirty years. The restoration process is somewhat reminiscent of painting, but the coating composition is significantly different from conventional paint.

There are two types of compositions on sale - professional, used by craftsmen working with special tools, and enamel, intended for independent work.

The mixtures differ in their consistency. Professional ones have a lower density, that is, they are liquid, since they are applied to surfaces in several layers using spray guns. This process is quite long, since each layer must dry thoroughly before applying the next one.

Do-it-yourself materials are thicker, so they are somewhat easier to work with.

In addition to the above options, you can find a reducing agent in aerosol cans on sale. These compounds are easy and quick to apply, but, unfortunately, the material is not particularly durable, and its service life is no more than one year.

"Epoksin" - enamel for restoring bathtubs.

Epoxy compositions, just like acrylic enamels, are two-component mixtures. For independent restoration work, they most often purchase “Epoksin” and “Epovin” - domestically produced kits. These compounds take quite a long time to harden, but are affordable.

"Reflex 50" for restoration of bathtub coverings

Another, more expensive version of the composition for the restoration of bathtubs is the development of the Finnish one, which is familiar to many for the high quality of its products. To restore bathtubs, this manufacturer presents the composition “Reflex 50”.

Features of working with epoxy enamel

The two-component epoxy composition has specific properties that differ significantly from the characteristics of acrylic materials. Therefore, they should be known and taken into account even at the stage of acquiring everything you need.

It is very important to choose the right paint color and take into account that it should differ from the color of the old coating by more than one or two tones. If the bathtub is, for example, blue in color, and it is planned to give it a snow-white color, all operations, including preparation, will have to be performed several times until the old coating is completely covered. Otherwise, the coloring will simply look sloppy and uneven.
Another point that must be taken into account when choosing epoxy compounds is that such a two-component mixture, after combining the two components, must be used for a fairly limited period of time. Therefore, when purchasing paint, you must carefully read the instructions from the manufacturer. The period of setting and beginning of hardening can vary from 30 minutes to four hours. Once the mixture begins to thicken, it will no longer lie evenly on the surface of the bath. Taking into account this property of the material and the existing experience in working with the epoxy mixture, it is necessary to mix such an amount that is guaranteed to be produced within the time specified by the manufacturer.

Instructions for using a specific composition and its characteristics are located on the original packaging.

Different compositions have different drying times for each layer. For example, the first layer of Reflex 50 sets within the first hour after application to the surface if the room temperature is +23 degrees. However, all subsequent layers are applied only eight hours after applying the previous one.

Advantages and disadvantages of epoxy enamel for bathtubs

When choosing this restoration option, you need to have an idea of its “pros” and “cons.”

Its advantages include the following:

Affordable cost of compositions, compared to analogues.
The process of applying epoxy enamels is quite simple, so even an inexperienced craftsman can carry out the work by studying the instructions from the manufacturer located on the packaging.
Due to the thickness and high adhesion of the enamel, it creates a uniform coating and fills cracks, shallow chips and pores of the base well.
Resistance of the coating to mechanical, chemical and biological influences.
Long service life of the coating. With intensive use of the bathtub, the epoxy enamel layer will last five to seven years.
For self-application, you can find compositions on sale that set within 4 hours after mixing, which gives more time for work. If you decide to use an epoxy composition to restore the bathtub, you must choose this particular enamel option.
This material is suitable for the restoration of both steel and cast iron bathtubs.

The disadvantages of epoxy-based paint include the following:

A bathtub coated with epoxy enamel is ready for use only 7–8 days after applying the last layer of coating.
After painting a container with this composition, it is not recommended to enter the bathroom for two or three days, so as not to raise dust in the room, which will settle on the undried coating.
The longer the applied layer of enamel dries, the stronger the coating becomes and more resistant to various influences. Therefore, it is best to paint before leaving for the country or on vacation. In this case, the paint layer will have the opportunity to dry well and harden.
The coating may turn yellow after a few years. Therefore, it is better to choose not white, but a colored version of the enamel, on which the color change will not be so noticeable.
An unpleasant smell of paint, which, however, will disappear without a trace after a while.

Carrying out restoration work independently

Tools for working with epoxy enamel

The set of tools for working with epoxy-based composition is somewhat different from the kit for preparing and applying acrylic enamel. So, for the enameling process you will need:

Professional craftsmen most often use a spray gun, and for self-application they use a roller and a flute brush.
Tweezers for removing hairs from brushes and rollers.

In addition, you will need masking tape, a knife, newspapers or plastic film to protect surfaces from paint, as well as a degreaser - acetone or white spirit.

A few words need to be said about the peculiarities of working with tools when applying the epoxy mixture:

Using a spray gun will ensure even coverage of the enamel on the surface. However, it should only be used if you have experience with it.
If you use a roller for painting, you must have a brush on hand, which is used to level the paint in areas that are difficult for the roller to reach.
It is best to pour a little paint onto the bottom of the bathtub, and then use a roller to distribute it over the walls and sides. Add paint to the bottom as needed.
It is not recommended to use only a brush, as it will not provide even coverage. In addition, brush hairs will remain on the surface of the paint.

Restoration of a bathtub with epoxy composition

Now, knowing the basic nuances of working with epoxy enamel, you can move on to considering the process of updating the bathtub.

The appearance of the bathtub before preparing it for painting.

Preparing a bathtub for painting with this composition is no different from similar activities when using acrylic paint - this was discussed in detail above.

The process of applying epoxy enamel to an old coating is also somewhat similar to acrylic, but has some differences.

So, after the stage of preparation and degreasing of surfaces, they proceed to painting operations:

Illustration	Brief description of the operations performed
	In the example shown, Tikkurila Reaflex 50 paint was used to restore the bathtub. Mix the base composition with the hardener as specified by the manufacturer in the instructions. When mixing the two ingredients, we must not forget that the pot life of this paint is only 4 hours - this is not short, and there should be enough time for everything. However, it is better to be careful - do not combine the contents of the containers completely. The best option would be to take half of one and the other can. Mixing can be done in a plastic bucket that has been cleaned of used paint compounds.
	It is best to place the finished paint on the bottom of the bath - this will help you use it completely to the last drop. Another option, mentioned above, is to pour some of the paint into the bottom of the container, and then distribute it over the surfaces. Here, each master chooses the method that is more convenient for him in his work. In this case, a roller with a compact size was selected for painting, making it possible to dip it into a container of paint. If the roller is larger, you can use a special paint tray or pour paint directly into the bath.
	Painting begins from the walls of the bathtub, from the top, gradually descending to its bottom. It is very important to ensure that no smudges remain on the surfaces. If they appear, they must be picked up immediately, distributing the paint to nearby areas without allowing it to set.
	The color of the base may show through the first coat of paint applied. It will seem that the paint has applied unevenly - but there is no need to panic. When the bathtub is completely painted, you need to give it time - about two hours - for it to dry. In order for the junction of the paint color of the bathtub and the wall to be even, it is necessary to stick masking tape on the wall in advance, otherwise you will end up with a crooked border, as shown in this illustration.
	The second layer will overlap the first, and the coating will become more uniform. You can stop here, since even now the bathtub will differ significantly from its original state - both in appearance and in the smoothness of the walls.
	If you want to get a perfectly even color coating, then you should apply another, third layer of paint. However, this process can only be completed after a day, since the first two layers must set very well. After applying the third layer, the bathroom must be closed, preferably for a week, to allow the paint to dry completely.
	No earlier than seven days later, the fittings for the drainage system are installed in place.
	When finished, the bathtub will acquire a uniform white or other selected color, which will completely cover all the dark areas that appeared on the bathtub during its previous use.

If there is no roller, the work can be done with a brush, starting from the sides, then moving to the walls and ending with the bottom of the container.

Painting a bathtub with a brush.

Using this tool, you must constantly monitor the hairs left on the surface, which should be immediately removed with tweezers.

Natural bathroom colors

If you have a small bathroom with limited natural light, deep and natural colors can instantly add depth and warmth. Pair warm wall tones with natural wood (or wood effect to keep costs down), woven rugs and clean white light fixtures to create a tranquil, cozy environment.

Finding the right color scheme to suit your bathroom, its size and lighting is critical. The right colors can add depth and create the perfect mood and atmosphere. And adding color to your bathroom design is quite simple. You just need to find the right accessories and furniture to complement the interior.

Acrylic painting

Painting with acrylic is a fairly simple way to restore a bathtub.
Restoring the coating using acrylic is carried out in two ways. The first involves applying a restoration coating with a brush or roller, and is similar in technology to painting with epoxy enamel. In the second method, a liquid acrylic solution is distributed over the surface by pouring. To do this, prepare a restorative composition according to the instructions and distribute it over the surface, ensuring that excess can be removed. The pouring restoration method has the following advantages:

simplicity and speed of acrylic application;
the ability to obtain a perfectly smooth and glossy surface;
long service life of the new coating, which ranges from 8 to 15 years;
absence of unpleasant odors during repair work.

Acrylic requires at least 3 days to dry, during which it is advisable to avoid contact with water, dust or small particles on the surface of the bath.

as well as metal ceiling in the bathroom

Shades of Gray

Find the right neutral shade in your bathroom using gray tones. For dark rooms, try a lighter shade of gray to give the room more depth and color. Gray also matches most existing fixtures. It is also an ideal background color for accessories. Add color with bright details or use textured surfaces, including bathroom floor tiles. Apart from this, you can use gray wooden cabinets to create a cohesive design in your bathroom.

Advantages of painting works

The advantage of the solution is significant savings. A good quality paint coating is cheaper than other finishing materials along with consumables. The main thing is to choose what is better to paint the walls in the bathroom instead of tiling.

When finishing with tiles, you need a good glue for ceramics, a construction mixer, notched trowels for applying the mortar, and a trowel for spreading the mixture. Also moisture-resistant grout, a spatula for applying it.

Applying paint

Any person who has no knowledge or experience working with paints can handle painting.

Tile laying requires skill, tools to control even laying, you need to cut the tiles, and maintain the width of the seam.

Coloring allows you to combine shades and create beautiful patterns. Interesting stencils and textured rollers help to beautifully decorate walls and complement the design.

Contrasting bathroom colors

Complementary colors can create an attractive space, but contrasting colors will create a modern, trendy look. Bright, modern colors such as yellow, orange and red will contrast brilliantly with your white fixtures. In addition, this technique creates a clean, simple, but stylish bathroom. Or go for one accent wall to match the rest of the clean and simple color scheme in the bathroom. Plus, if you don't want to use accent walls, you can always paint the bathroom door or focus on the shower.

Features of exterior bathtub painting

For exterior painting of plumbing fixtures, waterproof alkyd enamel is suitable. It's inexpensive. It’s easy to work with and doesn’t give off a strong smell. There will be no need to ventilate the apartment for several days after painting.

Please note: Basic criteria for choosing paint for children's wooden toys

However, there are also disadvantages to using an alkyd composition. The reason is the expenditure of energy, effort and time. Before you begin painting the outside of the tank with alkyd enamel, it must be prepared. The old layer must be cleaned and degreased. This is done for better adhesion. If there are deep damages, putty (resin) is used.

Painting the outside of the bathtub

What colors should you use to make your bathroom soft? Choose pink

A soft and pleasant pink color permeates the delicate bathroom. Designers love its sophisticated spirit in a room where every detail matters. It goes well with raw wood and modern style: bathtub and washbasin with minimalist lines, designer faucets and sophisticated decor. Pink paint is applied sparingly, on the wall or with a touch of color.

Features of painting the internal surface

What paint can you use to paint the inside of a bathtub? The coloring composition can be multicomponent or acrylic.

Epoxy resins are used to produce durable coatings. However, the material also has disadvantages . This is a high complexity of work, toxicity. Acrylic enamels are less toxic, but can achieve almost the same effect. Any of these compositions can be applied to the surface only after comprehensive preparation.

Degreasing . The inside of the container is treated with alkaline solutions, which remove dirt, grease, and limescale.
Removing the old layer. At this stage, you will need a sanding tool or regular sandpaper.
Removing enamel residues. You need to clean it thoroughly and wash off all the old paint. Otherwise, under the influence of the new enamel, it may swell and form bubbles. If, when rinsing with water, no drops collect on the walls of the container, the degreasing has been carried out efficiently. If necessary, degreasing is carried out again.
Drying. At this stage, a special hair dryer is used. If you don’t have one, rags or old newspapers will do.
Dyeing process. According to the technology, you need to start painting from the sides of the bathtub, gradually moving down. Apply a layer to the bottom of the container last. Painting is done in stages, there can be 2-3 layers.

Painting the inside of the bathtub

Floral notes

Flowers are one of the most versatile design motifs. They will immediately give your bathroom a cozier, more spacious and welcoming feel. Curtains, tiles, floral wallpaper, floral sinks or curtains - anything will do. Pair your floral prints with wood floors and neutral trims.

Bowl resurfacing methods

The following update methods are considered the most popular:

1.painting with enamel.

2.applying liquid acrylic.

3.liner insert, made of acrylic material.

All types of coating have positive and negative properties. Painting using enamel or acrylic is considered a non-labor-intensive job and can be done with your own hands. The most important thing is to determine the correct composition and follow the instructions strictly.

Installing the liner requires skill, which is why it is worth inviting specialists.

Yellow color for bathroom design - paint for vigor

Yellow paint on the wall wakes up the bathroom. Combined with a rich blue hue, the sunny color illuminates the entire room. To make sure you choose the right shade, focus on strong yellow, leaving out lighter, almost bland variations. In the bathroom, accessories such as towels provide the opportunity to replicate this dazzling tone.

Warm bath with yellow curry tint

With the idea of creating a cozy room that makes you feel good, a bathroom looks great in warm colors. A beautiful yellow curry with a muted hue, it manages to be soft and enveloping at the same time.

Acrylic liners

General concepts, advantages and disadvantages

For those who don’t want to “bother” with painting, because they are not sure that the restoration layer will be of high quality, there is another option that can update the bathtub in literally an hour.

If desired, you can find or order a liner for any shape of bathtub.

This method is to glue an acrylic liner into the bathtub. Such an update will cost a little more, but it is a 100% guarantee that the bathtub will be indistinguishable from a new one.

Acrylic liners for metal bathtubs are made in various colors.

The insert manufacturing technology is simple - an acrylic sheet is heated, and then an insert of the required size and shape is formed from it. For bathtubs of standard shapes and sizes, the insert can be purchased ready-made. But some local companies undertake to manufacture them to order, taking into account the individual parameters of the sanitary ware.

Prices for acrylic enamel VGT

Acrylic enamel VGT

The advantages of this method of updating a bathtub are the following:

The liner exactly follows the configuration of the bathtub bowl, so there are no gaps between it and the base. Thanks to this, at first glance it is even impossible to understand that this is a restoration liner - the bathtub simply looks like a completely new product.
After restoration, the bathtub becomes more durable, since it already consists of two materials - a metal base and a polymer insert.
Thanks to the properties of acrylic, the bathtub becomes warmer to the touch and maintains a high water temperature longer.
The acrylic insert does not darken over time and does not become covered with rusty spots.
To clean acrylic, any detergents are used, except those containing abrasive components.
The inlays are more resistant to mechanical damage, and if they occur, repairs can be made with liquid acrylic and grinding.
The manufacturing material has antibacterial properties, so there are no mold or mildew colonies on it.

The illustration shows the difference: before and after installing an acrylic liner in the bathtub.
The disadvantages of this restoration method are the following:

High cost compared to painting a bathtub with enamels.
In order to install the acrylic liner, it is necessary to move the bathtub away from the wall and dismantle the tiles located on its sides. Dismantling part of the facing material leads to additional costs.
The liner slightly reduces the volume of the bath.
To install the liner you will have to invite a specialist. It is not recommended to do the work yourself, since if a mistake is made, it will be extremely difficult and expensive to correct. In any case, the liner will be damaged.

Operations for gluing the liner

Installation work includes seemingly the most simple operations. But the slightest violation of technology or even an awkward movement made due to inexperience can ruin both the bathtub and the liner.

Sanding the bathtub before installing the inlay.

However, we list the main operations:

The first thing you need to do when starting work is to dismantle the bathtub drain and overflow necks.
Next, before installing the liner, the surface of the bath is treated with abrasive until a slight roughness is obtained. To carry out this stage, use a grinder or electric drill with an emery attachment.
Then the bowl must be thoroughly cleaned of enamel dust. This process is carried out using a vacuum cleaner.
Once the bathtub has been cleaned, it should be dried with a hairdryer, as all surfaces must be completely dry.
The next step in the insert is to determine the exact location of the drain and overflow holes - this can be done using measurements, or you can carefully install the insert into the bathtub and make marks on the insert through the holes.
Then, according to the markings, windows are cut. To carry out this work, an electric drill is used with a core drill of the required diameter installed on it. The holes on the bathtub and the insert must perfectly match each other, so the markings must be done very accurately.

Applying foam to secure the liner.

Now foam or special acrylic-based adhesive is applied to the inner surfaces of the bathtub.

Gluing the insert into the bathtub bowl using polymer glue.

Then a tab is installed in the bowl, pressed well and the bathtub, if it has been moved away, is moved towards the wall.
After this, immediately before the glue sets, the drain and overflow necks are returned to the holes and screwed into them.
Finally, the tub is filled with water, which will press the liner tightly to the base. The water in the container must be left for several hours until the glue or foam finally dries and firmly connects the two elements to each other.

The entire process, from preparation to installation of the liner, will take several hours. And the service life of such an updated bathtub is stated by the manufacturers to be about 20 years.

* * * * * * *

So, having received information about the materials and technologies for bathtub restoration, the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, you can choose the best method for yourself. In any case, such an update will, presumably, be less expensive than completely replacing the bathtub with a new model.

Let’s finish the publication with an interesting video in which the master shows step by step the entire process of restoring a bathtub with liquid acrylic.

Bathroom interior color in brown for a warm and soft room

Quite unusually, brown is an interesting color to choose as it is associated with well-being. Paint can be found not only on the walls, but also on the ceiling. Brown is also associated with a certain exoticism. This is a suitable frame for a raw style with wood, wicker baskets and other natural materials.

Tools and Supplies

To restore a cast-iron bathtub, you will need a respirator, rubber gloves and an oilcloth apron to protect your clothing. In addition, the following tools and accessories are required:

grinding attachment for drill and flexible grinding wheel on a plastic base;
acetone or solvent No. 646;
rags that do not leave lint.

When repairing a bathtub, use a respirator.
To apply paint, use a natural bristle brush, a soft-bristle roller or a special spray gun. The choice of tools depends on the capabilities and skills of the person carrying out the repair work, as well as on the type of restoration composition.

For the restoration of cast iron bathtubs the following is used:

epoxy enamel. It is used for significant surface damage and the presence of deep cracks and chips. Due to its thick consistency, before applying epoxy resin paint, it is sometimes possible to dispense with preliminary priming;
acrylic. It is not inferior in strength to epoxy enamel and is easy to apply, but requires careful preparation of the composition for restoration.

It is not advisable to use auto enamel to restore the coating of cast iron plumbing fixtures. It is low cost, does not require special skills when applying and dries quickly. However, enamel in an aerosol cannot mask cracks, chips and other major damage to the surface of the bathtub, and the service life of such a coating is no more than 10-12 months.

Ink shades

Create a boutique hotel look in your bathroom with dark, inky blue or off-black walls and ceilings. Make this moody yet elegant bathroom decor with gilded mirrors and luxurious textures. Including fluffy towels, rich copper towel rails and deep-pile bath rugs. Dark walls will create a secluded, intense atmosphere. You can pair it with white floors and a bright bathroom to help balance out the light and dark. Color is very important to create a mood. This balance of dark, light and luxurious finishes will make you feel amazing.

What paint to paint a bathtub at home

Every year the coating of a cast iron bathtub deteriorates.
It loses its shine and attractiveness. The surface itself in some places becomes covered with rust and becomes rough. Washing in such a cast-iron bathtub does not bring any pleasure, and microcracks become clogged with dirt, from which you can get some kind of disease. Replacing a bathtub is quite expensive, so most owners decide to restore it instead of replacing it. Nowadays, home conditions make it possible to paint the bathtub. A lot of different companies and individual entrepreneurs are engaged in this type of work. They restore baths right in your home, and always with high quality.

To paint a bathtub yourself at home, you need to study the technology of this matter and do everything in strict sequence.

To paint, you must have special paint for cast iron bathtubs and a hardener. You can only paint a cast iron structure with it. Paint dilution must be carried out exactly according to the attached instructions.

Lighting and other color accents in the bathroom

Lamps mounted in the bathroom are used not only on the ceiling and walls. For example, it is considered fashionable to place lamps in hot tubs and Jacuzzis made of durable glass and acrylic-glass materials. This decorates the interior even more

Ceiling lights in the bathroom.

Harmony in the interior will be created by bathroom furniture: cabinets, cabinets.

The installation of laundry baskets and the arrangement of colored towels can contribute to saturating the interior with additional color accents. If the bathtub in a country house has natural light, colored curtains are hung on the windows. Bright rugs are laid on the floor.

Rugs of different shades and shapes help to dilute the color schemes in the bathroom.

Why is it profitable to restore a product?

The bathtub coating gradually becomes thin; rust and limescale deposits give the product an unaesthetic appearance. It is important to carry out restoration work in time, while the plumbing can be saved without replacing it.
If your plans do not include renovating the entire room, replacing tiles and floors, then it is more profitable to update only the bathtub.

Buying a cast iron bathtub is expensive; its transportation, delivery and installation will require additional costs, because it is impossible to do it alone due to its weight.

At the same time, replacing it will ruin the appearance of the finish; you will have to change the entire tile.

If the bathtub bowl does not have large cracks with chips, then you can carry out the restoration with your own hands easily and quickly.

Attention! Restoration work on old plumbing does not require large expenses; even a beginner can easily handle the job.

Old-style bathtubs made of cast iron are much higher quality than their modern counterparts, so it is better to restore the product than to install a new one. Modern plumbing has a service life of only fifteen years.

Briefly about enamels

Kinds

Acrylic (latex) paint – the main component is acrylic. Also applies to two-component coatings.

In most cases, to restore the acrylic coating of a bathtub, the pouring method is used.

Alkyd enamel - contains components such as alkyd resin, organic solvent, vegetable oils and auxiliary ingredients.

Advantages and disadvantages of enamel coatings

Dye	Epoxy	Acrylic	Alkyd
Advantages	Uniform coverage. High resistance to aggressive chemicals. Doesn't thin out. Suitable for metal and cast iron	Holds color for a long time. Resistant to various types of damage (impacts, chips). Low level of thermal conductivity. Suitable for steel, cast iron, acrylic	Non-toxic. Retains color for a long time. Suitable for all types of coatings and ceramics.
Flaws	Toxic. The finished solution hardens quickly. Drips may occur during application. It quickly loses its whiteness.	Toxic. Big expense. The use of cleaning products containing acids and alkalis is prohibited. Incorrect application can lead to damage to the integrity of the coating.	Ideal surface preparation is required. Big expense. Application is difficult.

All types of paints are available in aerosols. Their main advantage is easy, quick, uniform application that does not require special skills. Loyal price.

Minuses

The main disadvantage of aerosol enamel is its thin layer and limited color range.

You should approach the choice of enamel in bathroom spray cans carefully.

The golden mean and practice

As practice shows, the correct and practical option for decorating bathroom walls is to combine ceramics and painting. The paint layer will be destroyed by direct contact with water, for example if you paint from a wall in a shower where water gets on the surface.

There are special paints that are designed for use in wet areas, but they can withstand humid air, and direct contact with water can destroy the paint layer.

It is much more practical to use a combination solution: decorate the surfaces on which water falls with ceramic tiles, and paint the remaining walls.

This solution looks elegant and will make the bathroom decoration more diverse. It is important that the ceramics harmonize with the color of the painted walls and emphasize its visual characteristics.

The maximum height for laying ceramics can be any, but it is important that splashes from the shower do not fall on the painted surface, so in the shower the height of laying ceramics should be at least 1800 mm, and above the bathtub 1500 mm is sufficient.

Important:

The cost of the laying specialist and the consumption of materials depends on the size of the ceramic tiles. The boar tiles will require more consumables and it will take a craftsman a lot of time to lay and cut the ceramics. You can save money by choosing larger tiles.

author: Ruslan Kirnichansky

I really want my advice to be useful to you, and in order to receive new articles as quickly as possible, you can subscribe to my channel “An Architect’s Diary”.

Coating requirements for cast iron surfaces

The industry produces a huge number of paints and varnishes of various compositions. About half of them end up on the market, widely available to the average buyer, and several brands of paints and varnishes can be used as paint for a cast-iron bathtub. There are certain restrictions on the use of bathroom paint with a cast iron base:

The layer of paint coating applied to the bathtub should be as dense, hard and glossy as possible; the smoother the coating is, the longer the new enamel will last;
The paint must not contain toxic or irritating components or solvents. All residues must not pass into water, evaporate into the air, be wiped off during mechanical cleaning, or dissolve under the influence of detergents.

Advice! Before painting your cast iron bathtub at home, apply a few stripes of purchased enamel to a small sheet of glass.

Firstly, it will help you evaluate the actual color, how the bathtub will look after the paint layer has dried. To do this, you just need to look at the paint from the back, that is, through the glass. Secondly, you can evaluate how much the bathtub “fades” after the first two washes using a liquid product. You can forget about powders, even washing powders, soda or dish detergent after painting a cast iron bathtub. Due to excessive care for sterility, a cast iron bathtub will lose its paint layer in a few months.

Advantages of paint over tiles

One of the easiest ways to update your design is to paint your walls. Let us highlight the main advantages of this technique in comparison with tiled masonry:

Availability. Laying tiles requires certain skills and abilities. Even a non-professional can paint the walls: what is more important is not so much the process itself as the preparatory stage (leveling and priming).
Practicality. Modern paints do not require special care, are easy to clean, do not fade, and many compositions resist the formation of mold and mildew, which is especially important for rooms with high humidity. And if damaged, such a coating is much easier to restore than tiles.
A wide range of. Each major manufacturer of paints and varnishes presents its own line of products for such purposes. This created a variety of palettes with different performance characteristics.
Large space for creativity. Various combinations of shades, textures, and application methods allow you to create modern bathroom designs. And in combination with special stencils and rollers, this process becomes even easier and more creative.
Price. The cost of preparatory work, paint and roller will be much less than for tiles, adhesive materials, grout, and tools.

Is it possible to do without ceramic tiles?

When decorating bathrooms, you can do without ceramic tiles, since there are now many other materials on the market that protect walls from moisture.

In addition to ceramics, there are porcelain stoneware, natural stone, moisture-repellent panels and special impregnations. Let's take a closer look at the latter.

Special impregnations are used to eliminate the risk of mold and protect porous surfaces from moisture. These are hydrophobic compounds that penetrate deeply into the wall material.

Such materials have appeared relatively recently and their use allows expanding the options for finishing wet areas of the apartment.

The area under the ceiling has been painted

For some, this technique resembles the “Soviet” version of bathroom cladding, but it still does not lose its relevance. The implementation of the idea is found in both expensive classical style and luxurious art deco.

Looks great with high ceilings and allows you to save on the amount of tiles. It is also appropriate for low ceilings, when there is about 40 cm of free space on top - the painted area looks like a frame and is complemented by moldings.

How to paint a battery with your own hands

If the manufacturer's instructions do not indicate the possibility of applying the composition to old paint, then radiators require pre-washing, cleaning of the old paint layer, then priming and painting in 2 layers.

Work is carried out wearing protective glasses

, respirator and gloves.

Attention! A set of protective clothing is the best protection against harmful dust and chemicals. To protect the space around the radiator from accidental splashes, protect the surfaces with plastic film, cardboard or paper.