How to Refinish a Sink
Bathroom or kitchen sink looking worn, stained, or dated? Refinishing can restore it for a fraction of replacement cost.
What Sinks Can Be Refinished?
Good Candidates
- ✓ Porcelain sinks
- ✓ Cast iron sinks
- ✓ Ceramic sinks
- ✓ Pedestal sinks
- ✓ Undermount sinks
Not Recommended
- ✗ Stainless steel
- ✗ Granite/Stone
- ✗ Cracked sinks
- ✗ Vessel sinks (glass)
- ✗ Heavily rusted
DIY Sink Refinishing Steps
Remove Hardware
Remove faucet, drain, and any hardware. This gives clean edges and prevents overspray damage.
Deep Clean
Clean with TSP to remove soap scum, toothpaste buildup, and oils. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
Repair Chips
Fill chips with epoxy filler. Sand smooth when cured. Treat any rust spots with rust converter.
Sand Surface
Use 400-grit sandpaper to degloss entire surface. Wipe clean with tack cloth.
Apply Coating
Apply 2-3 thin coats of tub/tile refinishing kit. Small brushes work well for sink curves. Let dry between coats.
Cure & Reinstall
Let cure 48-72 hours. Reinstall hardware with fresh plumber's putty. Don't use sink for 5-7 days for full cure.
Sink Refinishing FAQs
Can you refinish a kitchen sink?
Porcelain and cast iron kitchen sinks can be refinished. Stainless steel cannot. Kitchen sinks see more wear than bathroom sinks, so professional refinishing is recommended for durability.
How long does refinished sink last?
DIY: 1-2 years. Professional: 8-12+ years. Sinks see less standing water than tubs, so refinishing often lasts longer on sinks than tubs.
Can you change sink color?
Yes. Refinishing covers the existing color completely. You can go from any color to white, off-white, or other colors. White and bone are most popular.
Is it worth refinishing vs replacing?
Usually yes. Replacing a sink often requires plumbing work and risks damaging the counter. Professional refinishing ($150-350) is less disruptive and cheaper than quality sink replacement ($200-800+).