Paint Your Fiberglass Shower? A Step-by-Step Guide!

Transforming your bathroom doesn’t always require a full renovation. If you’re wondering, can you paint fiberglass shower? The answer is a resounding yes! Using the correct type of epoxy paint, readily available at stores like Home Depot, and following a careful preparation process involving sanding and cleaning, you can achieve a fresh, updated look. Improper preparation, however, can lead to peeling or chipping. This step-by-step guide demonstrates how DIY enthusiasts can successfully revitalize their fiberglass showers without hiring a professional.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Modern Builds , from the video titled How To Paint / Refinish a Tub and Shower Surround. DIY .

Can You Paint Your Fiberglass Shower? A Step-by-Step Guide!

A worn or outdated fiberglass shower can really drag down the look of your bathroom. But before you rip it out and start a costly renovation, consider an alternative: painting it! Yes, you can paint a fiberglass shower, and with the right preparation and materials, you can achieve a surprisingly durable and attractive finish. This guide will walk you through each step.

Assessing Your Shower’s Condition

Before you even think about picking up a paintbrush, you need to honestly assess the condition of your shower. This will determine if painting is a viable option and help you choose the right products.

Checking for Major Damage

• Cracks: Small hairline cracks can be addressed with patching, but large, deep cracks that compromise the structural integrity of the shower are a red flag. Painting won’t fix underlying structural problems.
• Mold and Mildew: Surface mold is common and treatable. However, extensive mold within the fiberglass could indicate deeper issues and may make painting pointless, as the mold could reappear through the paint.
• Significant Wear and Tear: Gouges, deep scratches, or areas where the gel coat is completely worn away may require more extensive repairs beyond simple painting.
• Water Damage: Check for signs of water damage around the shower base and walls. If there’s evidence of leaks, painting will only be a temporary fix. You must address the leak first.

If you find significant damage in any of these categories, painting may not be the best solution. Consider consulting with a professional before proceeding.

Gathering Your Supplies

Having all your materials ready before you start will save you time and frustration. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Cleaning Supplies:
  • Heavy-duty cleaner (specifically for removing soap scum and mildew)
  • Scrub brush
  • Sponges
  • Rags
  • Denatured alcohol
• Safety Gear:
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves
  • Respirator mask (especially important when sanding and applying primer/paint)
• Preparation Tools:
  • Painter’s tape
  • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
  • Sandpaper (various grits, e.g., 120-grit, 220-grit)
  • Sanding block or pole sander
  • Putty knife (for patching cracks)
  • Fiberglass repair kit (if needed)
• Painting Supplies:
  • Specialty Primer (epoxy or bonding primer formulated for fiberglass)
  • Topcoat Paint (two-part epoxy paint or specialized shower/tub paint)
  • Paint rollers (foam or microfiber, for smooth application)
  • Paint brushes (for detail work and corners)
  • Paint tray and liners

Preparing the Shower for Painting

Proper preparation is the most important step in ensuring a successful paint job. Skipping this can lead to peeling, cracking, or poor adhesion.

Deep Cleaning

1. Thoroughly clean the entire shower enclosure with a heavy-duty cleaner designed to remove soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains.
2. Scrub vigorously with a scrub brush and sponge.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry completely.
4. Wipe down the entire surface with denatured alcohol to remove any remaining residue and create a clean surface for the primer to adhere to.

Patching and Repairing

1. Small Cracks: Use a fiberglass repair kit to fill in any small cracks or imperfections. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and application.
2. Gouges: Fill in gouges with a suitable filler from your fiberglass repair kit.
3. Sanding: Once the filler is dry, sand it smooth with progressively finer grits of sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit to 220-grit) until it’s flush with the surrounding surface.

Sanding the Surface

• Lightly sand the entire shower surface with 220-grit sandpaper to create a "tooth" for the primer to grip onto.
• Focus on creating a slightly roughened surface without removing the existing gel coat completely (unless it’s already peeling).
• Vacuum and wipe down the entire shower to remove all sanding dust.

Taping and Masking

• Use painter’s tape to carefully mask off any areas you don’t want to paint, such as showerheads, faucets, drain, and surrounding walls or tile.
• Cover the shower floor and surrounding areas with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect them from paint splatters.

Priming the Shower

Choosing the right primer is crucial for adhesion and durability. Use an epoxy or bonding primer specifically formulated for fiberglass.

1. Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a foam roller or brush. Avoid applying too much primer, as this can lead to drips and runs.
2. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is critical for proper adhesion. Usually 24 hours is best.
3. Lightly sand the primed surface with 320-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections and create an even better surface for the topcoat.
4. Wipe down the shower to remove any sanding dust.

Painting the Shower

Use a two-part epoxy paint or a specialized shower/tub paint for the topcoat. These paints are designed to be waterproof and durable in wet environments.

1. Mix the paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Two-part epoxies will need a hardener mixed in.
2. Apply the first coat of paint using a foam roller or brush. Work in thin, even strokes to avoid drips and runs.
3. Allow the first coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This could take 24-48 hours depending on the product.
4. Lightly sand the first coat of paint with 400-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections.
5. Apply a second coat of paint, following the same techniques as the first coat.
6. Allow the second coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Curing and Sealing

The paint needs to fully cure before you use the shower. Curing times vary, but generally, you should wait at least 72 hours before exposing the painted surface to water.

• After the paint has cured, consider applying a clear sealant around the edges of the shower to further protect against water damage.
• Follow the sealant manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.

So, go ahead and give it a shot! With a little patience and this guide, you’ll be enjoying your newly painted fiberglass shower in no time. Remember, learning if can you paint fiberglass shower and doing it yourself can save you money and give you a space you love!