Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is resurfacing?
Q: How long does the Surface Medic finish last?
Q: How is resurfacing done?
Q: How long does the average resurfacing job take?
Q: How long before the fixtures can be put back into use?
Q: What are my design options?
Q: How do I maintain the finish?
Q: When doing a tile job, what happens to the grout?
Q: What preparations do I need to make before Surface Medic arrives?
Q: How much money can I really expect to save by resurfacing?

Answers

Q: What is resurfacing?
A: Very simply resurfacing is a system by which a very durable, high tech coating is applied over the existing surfaces without any tear out or replacement, give them a like new look. Some of the surfaces that can be resurfaced are ceramic tile, Formica, cultured marble, fiberglass, bathtubs, sinks and cabinets.

Q: How long does the Surface Medic finish last?
A: Surface Medic manufactures and tests all of its own products. The processes used by Surface Medic are unique. Our coatings have been lab tested to 17+ years. With proper care and maintenance, the average homeowner could expect the finish to last at least 15 years. But, just like the original finish, if the surface is not properly cared for, or is abused, it will dull and can damage over time. But, unlike the old finish the Surface Medic finish can be repaired at a minimal cost if damaged.

The real determining factor is a companies guarantee, or, how long are they willing to stand behind their product or service. At Surface Medic we are so confident with our processes and products that we offer our residential clients a Lifetime Warranty. Which means very simply that we will stand behind our job as long as our client owns their home!

Q: How is resurfacing done?
A: Resurfacing is a multi step procedure. The first few steps are a thorough cleaning of the fixture. The purpose of the cleaning is to remove any films, soap scum, body oils, grease, dirt, etc. from the fixture. Surface Medic uses a series of cleaners from very strong to mild. Next, repairs such as missing tiles, holes, cracks, and chips are made. The next step is to mask off the fixture with high quality papers and tapes. The surrounding areas are covered to protect all of the contents of the work area. The next few steps ensure that the new finish will chemically fuse into the old fixture. Surface Medic achieves this by applying bonding agents that will cause the new finish to link with the old finish at the molecular level. After the bonding agents are applied Surface Medic then applies a specially designed undercoating system which supports the final topcoats. The final step is the application of the topcoats. Incidentally, both the undercoatings and the topcoats are applied using a specially designed spray system. After the application of the final topcoats, all of the masking papers and tapes used in the process are removed, and the work area is cleaned up.

Q: How long does the average resurfacing job take?
A: Most jobs are completed in less than 1 day. For example, a bathtub, a kitchen countertop, or a shower will take between 3 and 6 hours. Larger projects involving different colors, floors, or multiple rooms could take several days.

Q: How long before the fixtures can be put back into use?
A: Fixtures are available for use 24 hours from the time the job is completed.

Q: What are my design options?
A: With Surface Medic your color choices are unlimited. We can custom color match any color you wish. Because of this your design options are virtually limitless. At Surface Medic we specialize in creating a job that looks like a new installation. In order to achieve this, it’s best to be creative with colors, and fixtures that can be replaced at a minimal cost.

Q: How do I maintain the finish?
A: Care and maintenance of a fixture resurfaced by Surface Medic is effortless. Due to the nature of the finishes, a mild liquid cleaner, a sponge, and a soft cotton towel is all that is required.

Q: When doing a tile job, what happens to the grout?
A: Because grout is porous it absorbs everything and eventually grows mold, discolors, and looks dirty. After resurfacing, the grout will be sealed by the new finish. It will still retain the look and texture of grout but because it is sealed it will no longer hold dirt, grow mold, or discolor. Clean up is very easy. Since it is covered by the same coating, it will wipe clean with a mild liquid cleaner and a soft cotton towel.

Q: What preparations do I need to make before Surface Medic arrives?
A: You will be provided a short list of preparations by your sales consultant prior to Surface Medics arrival. Generally, there are just a few key preparations. The first is to make sure that all other remodeling projects are completed prior to our arrival. Next, the room where the work will be done should be cleared, including any wall hangings or decorations, and the surfaces cleaned. And lastly, all faucets and walls should be double checked for water leakage.

Q: How much money can I really expect to save by resurfacing?
A: Given the average bathroom remodel in the Los Angeles area will cost $7221 and the average kitchen remodel costs $22,665, your cost savings could be substantial. Depending on the extent of the work the average resurfacing job should save you up to 75% of the cost of remodeling.

Lets take a bathtub for example. Call any construction or plumbing company and ask them how much it will cost to replace a bathtub, prices will range from $1700 to $3000(or more depending on the type of bathtub), also keep in mind that while the bathtub is being replaced there is a good chance that something else will have to come with it, adding to the cost. Lets also assume that you might want to replace the tile around the bathtub also. Your price range will go from $2500 to $3500(or more depending on the type of bathtub or cost of the tile). With resurfacing that bathtub will cost less than $600 and if you added the tile the entire cost would be under $1200.

Additionally, any improvements to kitchens or bathrooms will return a reasonably higher value to your home giving you a very good return on your investment.