Basin Resurfacing
Basin resurfacing (sometimes referred to as refinishing, re-glazing or re-enameling) is a process whereby basins and sinks can be repaired and given a new surface.
Basin resurfacing using Classic Surface by Worldwide Refinishing Systems produces an immediate and dramatic transformation, giving old and damaged surfaces a showroom finish.
The work can be completed in-situ without removal or in a workshop if more convenient during the bathroom renovation cycle.
The Resurfacing Process
Basin resurfacing is the same basic process as for bath resurfacing.
Basin – from dull blue
to shining white.
from dull white to
gleaming dark grey.
Basin with Stainless
trim – pink underneath!
basin with new antique
white finish.
When Basin Resurfacing Makes Sense
Basins and vanities are an integral part of the bathroom and come in all shapes and sizes. If you are contemplating a bathroom renovation, then you can either replace a basin because it doesn’t fit in with the new layout or resurface it because you appreciate its appearance and functionality.
The most popular basin resurfacing projects are
- Cast iron pedestal basins which have a distinctive ‘period’ appearance.
- Built-in vanities with hardwood cabinetry for which a close-fitting replacement top cannot be found.
vanity top & splash-back
with old tile pattern.
top in gleaming White
(or colour of choice)
Pedestal Basin rusting
round the edges.
clean in Antique White
Basin Resurfacing Cost
If a basin or vanity is to be resurfaced at the same time as the rest of the bathroom, the resurfacing will cost much less than purchasing and installing a replacement, with the added advantage of colour matching if needed.
However, there are too many shapes and sizes to be able to give a firm cost, but the vast majority of basins and vanity tops can be resurfaced in-situ for between $450 and $550 depending on size and condition, provided the work is completed in-situ at the same time and in the same colour as the rest of the bathroom.
Top with stains, chips &
crazing.
transformed to showroom appearance.
Should you only need the basin resurfaced, the cost will be higher because travel and site set-up have to be recovered in the price of the job.
Basin Repairs
If all you need is a repair at the most economic price possible, then a stitch in time can save nine, postponing replacement (or resurfacing) for several years.
shaving tool!
of life…
Which basin do you have?
Basins come in all shapes and sizes and include pedestal basins, wall-hung basins, drop-in basins, under-slung basins, molded vanity basins and so on.
They can be cast-iron with a porcelain surface, pressed steel with a stove enamel surface, china with vitreous surface, moulded plastic with gel coat finish or moulded acrylic with fiberglass backing.
Diagnosing the Problem
Rust
Cast-iron: Can usually be cleaned out, filled and resurfaced.
Pressed Steel: Can rot right through around drain waste and base of faucets. Repairs cannot be guaranteed, so best to replace.
Cracks
China: Cannot be satisfactorily repaired and if radiating from the drain hole, will most likely worsen.
Moulded Acrylic: Due to poor support or impact. Can be repaired but may not last the lifetime of the fixture.
Surface Deterioration
Porcelain: Leaching of glaze over years leading to porosity, staining and cleaning difficulties. Same issues with S/Enamel and Vitreous Enamel.
Acrylics & Gel Coats: Gradual loss of shine due to cleaning and use, sometimes accompanied by surface crazing. Can be filled and resurfaced or buffed out if crazing isn’t present.
Chips
Porcelain: Can be cleaned out, filled, colour matched and resurfaced. Same process also applies to Stove Enamel and Acrylic: Read more about bath repairs including chip repair.