DIY Network

Airstream: Painting the Bathroom From "Classic Rides" episode DCLR-203

In this first segment host Kevin Tetz demonstrates how to paint the various plastics in the '70 Airstream bathroom. The room has both ABS-type molded units (sink and tub), plus acrylic and vinyl plastics. Choosing the right paint for the right material is important, and preparing the surface is even more vital. Kevin chose warm blues and greens to give the bathroom a spa feel.

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The '70 Airsteam features a spacious bathroom, about the size of one in a small apartment.

Note: The project Airstream is a rear bath model, which some people like and some don't because you have to go through the bedroom to get to it. Many of these Airstreams have also had trouble with added weight in the back.
The bathroom materials and units in the '70 Airstream are mixed types of plastics, so choosing the paints is important. Kevin chose an epoxy paint for the tub and sink units. This particular paint is designed for ABS-type plastic.

The project Airstream's bathroom has some problems:

The sink and tub surrounds are faded and discolored.
• The light fixture is dated and old.

• The window tint is peeling.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Kevin demonstrates the proper technique for painting the sink.

A New Look for the Bathroom

1. In order to know what kind of paint to use in your Airstream's bathroom, you must first know what kind of material your surfaces are. It's also best to remove fixtures and faucets, clean and sand surfaces before painting.

2. To paint the sink, Kevin uses a two-epoxy system (paint and a hardener). Mix the paint as directed and let any bubbles settle before using. A small roller will produce an even coat. To color sand the sink, use 1500-grit sandpaper to knock off imperfections in the surface (figure A). It basically improves the overall look of the surface.

   Note: No matter what paint you choose, it's best to remove the faucet and fixtures, which are being replaced on the project Airstream anyway.

3. Mask off the areas to be painted with painter's tape (figure B).

4. The bathroom trim pieces are cleaned by lacquer thinner, and then use a silver spray paint on the surface. Make sure you give a nice, light, even coat the first time around. Also be sure to spray the edges of the trim strips (figure C).

5. Wait until it's almost dry to the surface to spray your second coat. After these moldings are dry, you can just snap them back into place in the bathroom.

6. Other surfaces in the bathroom can also be painted, but they have to be prepped properly as well. Either sand or use a liquid de-glosser that sets up the surface for good adhesion.

In the next segment Kevin will cover the back wall of the '70 Airstream with a unique aluminum wall treatment.

RESOURCES :

Tubby USA Inc.
Website: www.tubbyusa.com

Treviso Faucet
Dave Carter & Assoc. Corp. Corporate Office
Website: www.davecarter.com

XIM Products
XIM Products, Inc.
Website: www.ximbonder.com

GUESTS :

Jeff Grigg
Master Plumber
4621 Ellistown Rd.
Phone: 865-689-3999
Knoxville, TN 37924