FAQs
Just what is perma ceram?
Perma Ceram is a patented, confidential formula and process that has the same molecular structure and makeup as that of porcelain manufactured today. PERMA CERAM meets all the U.S. Dept. of Commerce requirements (Commercial Standard 77-63) by which all new bathtub are manufactured.
When redecorating my bathroom, should I have my bathtub reglazed first?
No. Generally I’m the last part of the bathroom remodel. During remodeling, the tub is holding tools, material, debris, etc. You get the idea. Do all other work first, such as retiling walls, flooring, papering ,painting, etc. Accidents could happen that can damage the newly finished surface. The only things done after are, caulking (I do this as a matter of course), or reinstalling any fixtures that block access to the tub. 10 inches should be about enough.
How long before I can use my bathtub again?
The next day. With normal care and proper cleaning, your new Perma Ceram finish will last for many years. Two weeks is the full cure time, which does not mean you cannot use the tub, but you do need to avoid leaving items on the bathtub itself trapping moisture or water such as soap, shampoo bottles, towels, etc… Peeling or flaking is the concern for most. This condition is caused by trapping moisture and contaminants under the glaze during the process, and, if present, will occur within 30 to 90 days after refinishing. Your 5-year guarantee affords you ample protection against this unlikely possibility.
What is the guarantee?
Your guarantee appears on the work order and is signed by the technician at the time of completion. It reads: "Resurfacing is guaranteed against peeling, flaking, sagging and crazing for 5 years unless otherwise stated. This does not cover man made damage or the use of abrasive cleaners, suction cup bathmats, kitchen sinks, or chip repairs. Any applicable mileage charges are not covered under the guarantee. Deposit required on all shop work and is non-refundable."
What can i do to get the shine back on my bathtub?
If you have attempted to clean the finish with normal household cleaners, and it is still dull, stained and dirty looking, the usual cause is that the surface glaze/shine has been sanded or etched by harsh chemicals, abrasive cleansers or just having hard water. This roughened and porous surface grabs and holds dirt, soaps, oils, etc. Therefore, only refinishing or replacing it will change this. Refinishing will produce a durable shiny non-porous surface that is easy to clean!
What about other paints or coatings?
Perma Ceram is a patented process and is not an Epoxy, Urethane, Paint, etc., nor does it contain Toluene Disocyanate (TDI). The Perma Ceram process has been fully tested and approved by the Federal Drug Administration(and other agencies) and has been found to be fully safe, non-carcinogenic, and non-toxic for the well-being of all concerned. In view of this information, we suggest you be extremely cautious of any unknown porcelain resurfacing material.
Can you do just the bottom of my bathtub?
Generally no. In reglazing, the idea is to start and end the process outside the water area. This prevents the possibility of water seeping under the new finish. In some instances it is possible to apply a non slip surface to the bottom of the tub, but there is no warranty on this procedure.
Are there special cleaners I should use on my Perma Ceram finish?
One of the advantages of the Perma Ceram process is that it is easier to clean than before because it is now non-porous. No more ring around the tub! Your Perma Ceram surface should be cleaned only with non-abrasive liquid cleaners. Cleaners such as Scrub Free, Lysol Tub & Tile cleaner, 409, Scrubbing Bubbles are acceptable. Do not use abrasive cleansers such as: scouring pads, Ajax, Comet, BonAmi, etc. These act like sandpaper and will dull and erode the finish. RULE OF THUMB; If you wouldn’t use it on your brand new car, don’t use it on the tub!
Do you change any of the plumbing fixtures?
No. If you are replacing any of the hardware, we recommend a plumber doing that before the refinishing. Plumbing problems such as leaks, broken or loose fixtures, must be resolved before the bathtub is refinished. We are not plumbers, so we do not remove any of the fixtures such as drain, or faucet. We typically remove the over flow drain plate as that is usually an easy fixture to screw in the next day. We do use water in our prep process, so we do need the drain to be installed in order to refinish.
How long does it take to perma ceram my bathtub?
Normally three to five hours, and there is no mess for you to clean up. Most of the time is spent conditioning the old bathtub. The tub can be used before I arrive and again the following morning.
Are there any bad odors from the process?
During the refinishing process, there will be a slight odor. If the bathroom has a window, most odors are exhausted through the window. If there is not a window in the room, an adjoining window is used to vent odors outside using a fume exhaust blower system. Your bathroom fan is really insufficient to the task. (Besides, I’m in there!) Most people aren’t affected or disturbed during the process, but some slight odor may remain after the job but dissipates quickly.
Do you travel?
Unfortunately, no, we do not travel outside of the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area.