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You can fix chipped enamel on cast iron and steel sinks, and you can make the repair almost invisible with a special enamel repair kit. We show you how.
By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine
The initial repair will take about 30 min. You may have to apply a second layer later.
Matching the color and preparing the chipped area is not difficult, but requires attention to detail.
The epoxy kit and wet/dry sandpaper cost less than $15.
Mix the epoxy to match the enamel color and dab it into the chipped area to fill the hole.
When you accidentally drop a heavy pan into a cast iron or steel sink, you're likely to chip the hard enamel surface. I know the sinking feeling, having chipped one myself hardly a year after installation. Puns aside, it's fairly easy and inexpensive to repair chips so they're almost invisible. You can find two-component epoxy (catalyst and hardener) in the adhesive section of most hardware stores and home centers. It's usually available in a variety of colors. If necessary, two colors can be mixed for a more precise match.
First, scrub the chipped area thoroughly with a sponge and soapy water. Then rub 400- to 600-grit “wet-and-dry” sandpaper over the damaged area to remove dirt and rust, as well as rough up the chip so epoxy will stick to it. Next, mix the two epoxy ingredients according to label directions.
Use a wooden matchstick or small brush to fill the chip. If the chip is deep, apply the material in several coats, and don't forget to allow for the drying time specified on the label. Once the repair is complete, wait 24 hours before you use the sink, and don't scrub that area for seven days.
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here's a list.
Share what's on your mind and see what other DIYers are thinking about.
May 17, 4:47 PM [GMT -5]
I could use some advice on where to find epoxy for older sinks, bath tubs and toilets because the colors are usually not available. For instance, my bathroom sink and toilet a beige color with a rosey undertone. I have been unable to find anything to match and mixing is all but impossible because the places I have been to don't carry the colors I would need to use as a mix. Is there any place you know of that specializes in the older colors? Thanks for your help. Sincerely, neakybird
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