The life expectancy of your new surface is relative to use, water quality and the way it is cleaned and maintained and can be extended if special care is taken during cleaning and maintenance.   Use only mild detergents and soft sponges or towels.  They will help keep the final sheen and durability of your new surface.  Plus, it makes cleaning a breeze. Never use steel wool, abrasive pads, abrasive powders and creams, bleach, acids, vinegar, drain cleaners. or other harsh chemicals on the surface.  They clean the surface by "scratch" cleaning the dirt off.   Each time you clean the surface, it will become harder to clean and will eventually lead to a complete breakdown of the surface enamel.

Avoid new stains Hair dyes; deeply colored detergents, bubble baths, and oils; food coloring; colored beverages; nail polish and hard water can all cause stains. Never soak clothing in bathtubs. Some detergents and washing powders are too harsh for the surface and will eventually cause damage. Minimal use of these substances will keep your surface shiny. Always be sure to clean up immediately after using any of these items or similar products that you know will stain.

Chipping To avoid chipping of your new surface:   Make sure objects and shelves are securely mounted to wall or door near surface. Most chipping occurs when heavy objects fall onto the new surface. Avoid hitting objects against surface, especially when moving.   Repair damage as soon as possible to prevent further chipping and peeling.

Water Quality   In some areas, domestic water contains unacceptably high proportions of "foreign objects" which, in time, may either stain or scratch most surfaces.  After time, the scratches grow in size and start a peeling effect to the new surface, especially bathtubs.   Adding a filter to your water line can reduce the contaminates, and provide healthier water for you and your family.

Dripping Faucets It is important to ensure that dripping faucets are fixed and water is not allowed to remain in the bathtub.  In areas where the water contains a lot of lime, it often builds up around the drain and below the faucets.  Dripping faucets eventually break down the surface and wear away surface enamel and cause rust around the outlet.   The first sign of damage is the staining of the enamel surface.  This stain is usually green or a faint brown.   Repair as soon as you notice a drip to ensure the water doesn't pool, causing a separation of your new finish.

Drainage Poorly installed drains can lead to water pooling.  Water left unattended will eventually lead to corrosion, rust, soap and mildew deposits.   Be sure tubs and sinks have an efficient drain system to allow complete drainage and drying.

Water Temperature Extremely hot water causes surfaces to expand and contract.  Sudden changes in temperature can cause cracking.  It is advisable to periodically check the temperature of the hot water heater to maintain a constant temperature.   A temperature not exceeding 149°F/65°C is recommended.

Non-slip strips or mats It is unhygienic to leave rubber bath mats in the bathtub.  Mats left on the bottom of a tub trap water, causing mildew buildup and soap deposits.   Stick on, non-slip strips cause problems when the edges start to lift up, peeling off the surface from below.   Once the edges have lifted, they are a trap for unsightly mildew and bacteria. The non-slip mats are not recommended and if you must use one, always remove the mat from the bathtub after use.

Soaps Many soaps contain caustic soda which, in time, bleach the enamel.  Soap should not be allowed to stand on a bare surface for a prolonged period of time.   Use of a soap dish is strongly recomended.