When you look at your bathtub, what do you see? If your answer is stains and discoloration, you are more than likely unhappy with your tub. Discoloration is unsightly and it makes your tub appear as if it is always dirty, no matter how much you clean it. Over time, you can expect your tub to become discolored from different factors over the course of the tub’s life. Below, we will explore some of the reasons why your bathtub is discolored and your options to fix it.
Soap Scum
Soap scum is formed when there is a soap product present and hard water. When the two mix together and remain, they form a film-like sticky substance that will adhere to your tub. Soap scum can be hard to remove and cause a grayish discoloration in your tub.
One of the ways to get rid of soap scum is to install a water softener for your home. You can also avoid certain soap products such as bar soap and utilize body wash instead.
Hard Water
Hard water is a criminal when it comes to your tub. As mentioned above, it pairs with soap to make soap scum; however, hard water alone will leave deposits in the tub. These limescale deposits harden over time and can take on an odd color, which discolors the tub. These spots can be hard to remove and will return with the continued use of hard water.
Hard water is also responsible for causing brown or orange stains around the drains and faucets. The staining mimics rust but is actually from the hard water.
Mildew
The sides of the tub are prone to mildew growth and if you look closely, you will probably see the staining. Scrubbing the stains away with a bleach-containing product usually works, but if you have had your tub reglazed, bleach is not recommended to be used in the tub.
Harsh Chemicals and Cleaners
Drain cleaners are known to eat the finish on your tub and lead to discoloration. If you need to use a drain cleaner, make sure that it does not get on the finish of the tub and if it does, clean it up immediately. Bleach, acid-containing cleansers, and abrasive cleansers can cause staining and discoloration in your tub.
Explore Your Options
You have two main choices when your tub is discolored. First, you can replace your tub. This is a viable option for some homeowners and will eliminate the worry that the tub is stained. This option does come with a price tag though, so it is best to be prepared.
The second option is to have your tub reglazed. The process of reglazing transforms your tub to look and feel brand new again. Once the tub has been reglazed, the discoloration will be gone.
With proper upkeep of your tub, you can avoid discoloration. To discuss your NYC bathtub reglazing options or to schedule a free consultation, call White Glove Reglazing today.
