If the shower has a door instead of a curtain, it’ll be a lot easier to paint if you take this off too. However, you can also paint around it. Keep all of these pieces in a safe spot so you don’t lose them. Storing everything in a bucket or plastic bag is helpful.
Wear gloves while you’re using a razor blade so you don’t get cut. If the caulking won’t budge, soak it with some caulk remover first. You can get this at any hardware store. You don’t have to remove caulking around the border of the shower if you’re only painting it. Only look for spots where caulk is on the tile or fiberglass shell.
Wear rubber gloves while you’re handling bleach so your skin doesn’t get irritated. Mildew especially likes to grow in corners and along edges. Keep the window open while you’re cleaning the shower. Some of these chemicals are pretty harsh. If you don’t have a window, run the fan in the bathroom.
It’s best to use an abrasive cleaner in powder form to really scrub off any soap scum. Don’t worry about scrubbing too hard. You’ll be sanding the shower anyway, and you really need to get rid of any leftover soap scum.
Wear rubber gloves while you’re handling acetone and be careful not to splash any on your skin or in your eyes. Keep the bathroom window open so the room is ventilated. [7] X Research source You could also use a different solvent like paint thinner or mineral spirits. Don’t rinse the shower with water. This could leave behind soap scum and suds and ruin the paint.
You can find epoxy at any hardware store or online.
If the shower is wet, then a wet/dry sandpaper will work best. If the shower is fiberglass, that doesn’t make a difference. Sand it the same way. [10] X Research source Sandpaper is rough, so it’s best to wear gloves to protect yourself.
If you still see some dust around the shower, wipe it off with a wet towel.
If the tub runs along the floor, remember to tape this spot off too. If the shower is even with the wall, like with a surround shell, just tape along the border where the shower ends. Masking tape could also work, but don’t use a sticky tape like duct tape for this.
For ceramic and porcelain, epoxy paint and primer are good to use. Polyurethane and epoxy work best for fiberglass. If you’re not sure what type of paint is best, ask an employee at the hardware store.
You could use a brush instead of a roller. [16] X Expert Source Kevin SnowCommercial Painting Professional Expert Interview. 23 March 2022. But this will take a lot longer. If any of the primer is dripping as you apply it, then the roller is probably too wet. Add a bit less primer the next time you wet it. There are also spray primers that might make the job faster. However, this isn’t safe to use in a place that isn’t well-ventilated. If you do want to use this, wear a respirator so you don’t breathe in any fumes. [17] X Expert Source Kevin SnowCommercial Painting Professional Expert Interview. 23 March 2022.
The drying time might be different for the type of primer you use. Always check the can for the drying instructions.
You might need to use a brush if there are any ridges or uneven parts in your shower. It’s okay if this coat doesn’t look perfect. This is only the first coat and it’ll look better when you’re done.
Remember to check the paint you’re using for the correct drying time.
The specific directions might vary depending on the brand of sealer you’re using, so always follow those instructions.