Selecting a professional resurfacer
Resurfacing is an excellent service – provided it is performed with the right materials, technology and processes. Unfortunately not all practitioners work to the same high standards as Surface Doctor. Before you select someone to resurface your bathroom or kitchen, make sure you get answers to the following questions
Is the person resurfacing your bathroom or kitchen insured?
Customers should insist that any tradesman working in their property is properly insured. All Surface Doctor technicians are fully insured, giving you, the customer, peace of mind. Ask any potential resurfacer for a copy of their insurance before they commence work!
Does the person resurfacing have Health and Safety Policies?
Bath resurfacing is a well established, safe process, provided it is carried out by trained, competent technicians. Surface Doctor has a Health and Safety policy, which is available on demand. We are accredited by the Government approved CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) as well as Constructionline. The safety of our customers, our employees and the general public is our paramount concern. We provide written method statements and risk assessments on request for the work we undertake. Make sure that whoever you employ have these available. It is not only good practice, it is the law!
How knowledgeable and committed is your surface refinisher?
A professional must be able to provide information about his process and should be able to give you information on what the finished job should look like. Does he offer a website to help you through the decision process? Does he have professional brochures and marketing materials? Is he fully insured?
How long has the company been in business?
The longer a resurfacing company has been in business, the greater the level of experience and know how. Surface Doctor is part of an international operation that has been resurfacing bathroom and kitchen fixtures for nearly 30 years.
Is the company a part of an international or national organisation?
Surface Doctor requires its franchisees and technicians to attend comprehensive training programmes and to adhere to defined quality standards. Independents are accountable to no one.
Will my surface have a long life?
The prerequisite for a applying a new surface successfully is getting the new finish to “adhere” to the original surface. Ask how they will do this? Do they apply a bonding agent, or do they rely on mechanical etching or keying. Keying the surface relies on old and outdated technology. Surface Doctor always bonds the new surface to the original. Surface Doctor pioneered this technology in the early 1980s and remains well ahead of the field in terms of capability. A new bath or tile surface, when treated with respect will easily have a life of 10-15 years. Click here to read more about our technology and how long will the surface last
What materials and procedures will be used?
Bath resurfacing performed with the right materials, technology and procedures is a superb alternative to the mess and disruption of replacement. So how do you know, whether the person quoting for your work, uses the right materials and procedures for your bath resurfacing?
Here are some key questions.
How will my new surface look? The long-term appearance and feel of your new surface will largely depend on the top coating that is applied. Some surface refinishers use cheap enamel spray paint. Some use epoxy resin. Epoxies are very durable, but tend to yellow and turn chalky in appearance over time. Surface Doctor uses only acrylic polymer top coatings. These tend to be slightly more expensive, but deliver durability and a great look.
How long will it be before I can use my bath or worktop?
The best top coatings will dry naturally in less than 8 hours, which minimises the time your bathroom or kitchen will be out of action. In most instances, if you are told that it will take longer than 24 hours for the surface to cure fully, this indicates that cheaper or inferior materials will be used. Surface Doctor coatings will cure fully in less than 8 hours.
Will my bath feel smooth?
While air extraction will be used, dust in the atmosphere can settle on the new surface while it cures. This can give the bath’s surface a slightly gritty feel. Ask how someone quoting to resurface your bath will ensure a smooth feel. Surface Doctor is one of the few companies that polishes the bath as standard as a means of not only getting a great lustre, but a smooth feel to the new surface.
Is the price too good to be true?
Bath repair and kitchen resurfacing is similar to many other industries – "You get what you pay for". Professional resurfacing will save you time and money. A poor job can cost you extra time and money along with a large dose of frustration. The cost to resurface a bath can range from £225 to £350, depending on its location and condition. Before taking the lowest bid, make sure you ask all these questions. In the end, you will "get what you pay for" when you select the company to carry out your bath repair.
Are you being offered a warranty?
Remember that the warranty is only as good as the company or individual providing it. Choose a reputable company to do the work. Ask specifically what the warranty covers and get it in writing! Your warranty should at least cover failure of adhesion and peeling. "Lifetime" warranties should raise concerns.
Where did the surface refinisher receive his training?
Resurfacing is a skill that must be learned and practiced. Your home should not be used for self-training. A professional resurfacer should have personally attended formal training. The more complete the training, the more likely he will deliver quality work. Surface Doctor technicians must complete a mandatory training programme, as well as continuing education sessions.