How much does enamelling cost?

This is obviously dependent on the size of the material that is to be enamelled. However, an estimate for a cast iron bath is around £200 including VAT. This price can act as a guide to other enamelling jobs. Chip repairs to enamel surfaces cost between £45 and £110 depending on the extent of the damage. Re-enamelling will cost slightly more than an enamelling job, as the previous enamel has to be removed first. AGA and Rayburn enamelling is slightly more expensive; a two-door oven will cost around £400 plus VAT to re-enamel, while a four-door oven will cost around £500 plus VAT.

What qualifications should I make sure the enameller has?

They are no specific qualifications which an enameller needs to have, and the majority learn through apprenticeships. However, you should make sure than the enameller which you employ is a member of The Institute of Vitreous Enamellers (IVE). Members of this institute have to be trained to a high competence of this trade and will be kept up-to-date on new techniques, methods and products. It also ensures that you are getting an enameller whose quality has been measured and controlled. New members have to undertake a residential training course to ensure that they adhere to the basic requirements and promises of the institute. The Health, safety and environmental committee of the institute makes sure that all the members follow their guidelines and have adequate qualifications.

Where should I look for an enameller?

The IVE website has a directory of all its members nationwide, thus is the best place to look to ensure that you are getting a member of this institute. The website also categorises the enamellers into which metals, materials or products they specialise in for ease of reference.

What should I ask my enameller?

• How long will the process take?
• How much will it cost?
• Do you offer a variety of decorative finishes?
• How long will the enamel last for?
• Do you do touch-up enamelling? ( This is necessary if you have a chip in your enamel to find out if you can up cover this chip or whether all the original enamel has to be removed and another layer painted over the top.)