Showers can be pretty pricey, so we looked at inexpensive alternative options plus I’d really like the option of occasionally taking a bath. We settled on a galvanized steel stock tank. We were also gifted a small metal tub for our wedding with a personalized engraving for us - “Like a band of gypsies we go down the highway” on one side and “Can’t wait to get on the road again” on the other. Very apt for our gypsy souls! We decided to adapt this into our bathroom sink. However for both of these tubs we wanted to seal up the inside to ensure they are watertight and provide a coating that will feel better on the skin when taking a bath.
It was quite a process but really simple to do. First step, sand the inside of the tub with a fine grit sandpaper and then clean the inside from dirt and debris. Then we used Rustoleum Self Etching Primer. We applied 3 thin coats as recommended.
Next we used Rustoleum Leak Seal Spray on the sink to provide the rubber coating and prevent leaks, but we weren’t happy with how it came out. The texture was rough, not rubbery, and there were little bubbles all over. So we switched to Flex Seal in a can and were much happier with this option. Before applying we sanded the tubs again to allow good adhesion and painted it on with a paint brush. Love the fact that it is non-toxic and non-hazardous too! We applied 2 coats allowing at least 24 hours drying time between coats.
As the last layer to protect the rubber coat we used Rustoleum Crystal Clear Enamel. Once again doing 2 to 3 coats. The dry times between each coat and layer spread the project out over a few days, but we are very pleased with the results.
While I (Mela) was working on coating the tub and sink, Don started cleaning up our windows we had just bought. He just did a quick clean with windex (will need a more thorough cleaning with a toothbrush to get into all the corners) but we were pleased to see the glass was in good condition.
Don and his dad also tackled the task of removing unnecessary wiring from the bus, plus removing the luggage bay air lines and capped off that part of the buses front air reserve tank. We are hoping we did this correctly and will check with a mechanic to ensure we didn't mess anything up. We plan on replacing the luggage bays with electric locks.
Up Next
Still on the bathroom theme, we build our composting toilet.
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Rustoleum Self Etching Primer
Rust-Oleum® Self Etching Primer prepares bare metal, aluminum and fiberglass surfaces to promote maximum adhesion and smoothness of the top coat. This product is formulated to stop rust and is an essential step to achieve a professionally finished look.
Flex Seal
Flex Seal Liquid is liquid rubber in a can! Now you can brush, roll, dip or pour it on! Use anywhere you need a watertight, flexible rubberized coating. Goes on smooth and covers fast, sealing out water, air and moisture. Non-hazardous, non-toxic, non-flammable, UV-resistant. Even safe for plants and animals. Prevents rust and corrosion. Mildew and chemical resistant.
Rustoleum Crystal Clear Enamel
Weather and corrosion resistant coating protects exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, masonry and more. Oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention. Dries to touch in 2 to 4 hours and covers up to 15 sq ft. Excellent resistance to abrasion, fading and chipping. Glossy finish provides a fresh shine to surfaces.
