Since 1995
MEMBER
FAQ’s
Copyright © 2011. Capital Refinishing Systems. All rights reserved.
When it comes to refinishing we understand that our customers have a number of questions and
concerns. Below is a list of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not
addressed here, please feel free to contact us and we will be more than happy to lend our experience
and address any questions or concerns you might have.
What is the process of refinishing?
Refinishing is the process of restoring old and worn out surfaces to a like-new condition by applying
extremely durable polymer coatings that bond into the original substrate.
Is refinishing the same as reglazing?
Yes. These terms mean the same thing.
What are the benefits of refinishing over replacement?
Refinishing is the preferred choice if you want to save both time and money. For most jobs, the
downtime associated with refinishing is considerably less (24 hours in most cases) while saving the
customer up to 80% over conventional remodeling.
How long does the new finish last?
With normal wear and tear, the lifetime durability is between 10-15 years for bathtubs. For surfaces
such as wall tile, the finish should last indefinitely.
How do I take care of the new finish?
The new finish is very easy to care for. Any all-purpose cleaners will do such as Dow Scrubbing
Bubbles without bleach, Simple Green (excellent), or Ajax all-purpose. The key is to stay from any
cleaners that contain harsh abrasives or bleach. Abrasive cleaners such as Comet will dull the surface
while bleach will discolor the surface.
How long does the process take?
Most work can be completed in 1-2 days. Larger jobs will require a little more time. Our goal is not to
see how fast we can complete a job but rather to ensure that the work is done properly, taking no
shortcuts, and making sure that the customer is left with a job that is of the highest quality.
What type of refinishing material do you use?
We use state-of-the-art aliphatic acrylic urethane enamels specifically designed for the bathtub and
kitchen refinishing industry. Our main coatings supplier is Hawk Research Laboratories which utilizes
cutting edge technology in developing the most advanced high-solid coatings that offer superior
bonding and durability.
Do you offer a warranty?
We offer a 5-year warranty protecting the new finish against fading, peeling, and cracking on most of
our work.
Do you replace the plumbing fixtures?
No, we do not. However, if you need plumbing services we will work directly with your plumber to
make sure the job is completed in a timely manner. We can also refer you to very competent and
professional plumbers. Rule of thumb: if you are looking to have plumbing fixtures replaced, it is
always best to have the old fixtures removed, and then have the bathtub/tile refinished prior to the
installation of the new plumbing fixtures.
Do I need to do any preparation before you arrive?
All leaky faucets must be repaired prior to refinishing. Even very slow leaks can cause problems with
the refinishing process. Also, make sure that all loose items are removed from the room, mainly those
items on any countertops and on the floor. Items can be left in medicine cabinets and closets as these
will be thoroughly masked prior to refinishing.
I am currently remodeling. At what point in the process should I have my fixture refinished?
It is always best to have all remodeling completed before refinishing. For example, if you are looking
to have a new tile surround installed around your bathtub, it is best to have that done first.
Accidentally dropped tiles and heavy tools could chip and mar the newly refinished bathtub, as it
could also chip and mar the original porcelain surface.
Why do different refinishing companies charge different prices?
Basically, with refinishing, you get what you pay for. Usually, the refinishing companies that quote
very cheap prices are taking shortcuts with the procedures and are using cheaper materials not
designed for bathroom and kitchen refinishing, despite what they tell you. We take no shortcuts with
our procedures, use only the highest quality refinishing coatings, and also use only the best application
equipment available.
Is all refinishing the same?
Absolutely not! Many different types of coatings are used by different companies that simply will not
last (e.g. automotive coatings). Also, the experience level of the refinisher is crucial to ensure a quality
refinishing job. Refinishing is a skill that takes time to develop and master. When choosing a
refinisher, make sure they have at least 5 years of experience in the field.
My fixture has incurred surface damage, can that be repaired?
Yes. Chips, pitting, erosion, and deep scratches are just some examples of surface damage that can be
repaired prior to the application of the new finish.
Can you change the color of my fixture?
A large portion of requests for our services are for that very reason. For example, if you have a
blossom pink bathtub and want to change the color to white, or any other color, that simply is no
problem.
How long must I wait until I can use the fixture after refinishing?
In almost all cases, the fixture can be put back into use 24 hours after the application of the new finish.
Do refinished fixtures look painted?
No. Technically, refinishing is not the same as painting. Our finishes are sprayed on using the best
turbine equipment available on the market which yields results that look like a new fixture. There are
no brushes or rollers used in our application process, therefore the new finish will not have brush or
roller marks associated with painting.
My fixture was refinished before. Can it be refinished again?
Yes. The previously refinished fixture will need to be stripped of the old finish before a new finish can
be applied.
Can I get the same results from a DIY kit sold at a home improvement store?
No, and for several reasons. First of all, the epoxy coatings sold in a DIY kit are not designed for
longevity but rather as a temporary “quick fix” that will not last. These coatings usually start to peel
from the substrate within a matter of months. Secondly, the instructions given in these kits to prepare
the surface for the new finish are inadequate. For example, porcelain and ceramic surfaces cannot be
simply cleaned then sanded prior to the application of the new finish to ensure proper bonding.
Chemical preparation is required. Finally, most instructions in these kits suggest applying the coatings
with either a brush or roller. This will result in a surface that yields brush and/or roller marks and will
look painted rather than professionally refinished.
Since 1995
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
