A bathtub is an excellent centerpiece in any bathroom. However, changing the appearance of your tub can change the look of your bathroom.

When a bathtub starts to show some age, many homeowners look into replacing the bathtub outright.

Still, this is not the best option for those interested in saving money or maintaining their bathroom design. Instead, bathtub refinishing may be the solution.

Sometimes referred to as reglazing, it’s a straightforward way to revamp the color of your existing tub without breaking the bank.

What Does It Mean to Refinish Your Bathtub?

Refinishing your bathtub involves cleaning the surface, repairing chips or cracks, and applying a durable coating to restore its original look.

It’s sometimes referred to as bathtub resurfacing or reglazing, and the end result is a tub that looks clean, smooth, and glossy without removing the fixture.

A professional bathtub refinishing job typically takes one day and can extend the life of your tub by 10 to 15 years with proper care.

It’s a practical solution if your existing tub is structurally sound but has cosmetic damage or discoloration.

How Refinishing Your Bathtub Works

Let’s talk about who will benefit the most out of tub refinishing – owners of older homes.

Bathroom styles have changed a lot. In past decades colorful bathrooms and tubs were the norms.

Nowadays, things tend to be toned down, though colorful tubs are making a resurgence in some areas.

Whether one is looking to tone down an existing tub or breathe new life into a dull bathtub, tub refinishing is the way to go.

The homeowner can finally keep all those vintage features in their home but style them in a way that fits a new modern feel. Tub refinishing allows one to start fresh with a bathroom.

The Bathroom Is One Of The More Valuable Areas Of the Home

If looking to add long-lasting value to a home, a well-maintained or renovated bathroom is the most impactful thing a homeowner can do.

Bathtubs are designed and constructed to last for a very long time.

That means unless there is significant damage, or the homeowner hates the design of the existing tub, we recommend bathtub refinishing.

Why Is Refinishing Superior to Replacing?

With almost any home improvement related job or task completed by a contractor, most of the cost is paid for labor. Experienced professional work is not cheap, but it is necessary to see long-term results.

Many homeowners choose refinishing your bathtub over replacing it due to cost and convenience.

Replacing a bathtub often requires tearing out tile, flooring, and sometimes even walls to access the plumbing and fit a new tub. This can drive up costs quickly.

On average, replacing a bathtub can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on materials and labor.

In contrast, the cost of refinishing a bathtub typically ranges from $300 to $600. Not only is it more affordable, but it’s also faster and far less disruptive to your home.

You won’t need to bring in multiple contractors or be without a functioning bathroom for days.

If you’re happy with the layout of your bathroom and the tub is still functional, refinishing just makes more sense, both financially and practically.

Consider How Difficult Removing A Tub Could Be

Some tubs are modular and can easily be picked up and moved with the help of a few strong individuals. Many tubs, though, require a substantial pre-planned operation to replace.

For example, most full-size tubs cannot fit through a bathroom door.

Therefore, a tub has to be cut up to be removed from the bathroom, all this involves labor. On the other hand, refinishing does not require tub removal.

Bathtub Material Makes A Difference

Essentially any tub material such as cast iron, steel, or modern fiberglass can be refinished. However, inspection before refinishing is critical; some issues prevent a tub from being refinished.

For example, refinishing might not be in the cards if your tub has large dents in it or visible surface rust/degradation. If you are unsure, call a professional refinisher to come and evaluate the tub.

Is refinishing your bathtub worth it?

The rule of thumb is that professionals work on old tubs, but the tub needs to be in decent condition.

Refinishing involves repair work, simply putting a fresh new surface on top of the existing tub surface. Great for those that want an upgrade without renovating the entire bathroom.

How Does The Surrounding Bathroom Tile Look?

All of the bathroom tile surrounding your tub is another thing to consider.

Replacing a bathtub also means replacing the tiles around it.

If the old tile is cracked or damaged, it may be best to replace it all in one go.

If the tile is not physically damaged but looks off-color or generally aged, it can be resurfaced.

Consider Your Budget

The budget is probably the single most crucial factor for homeowners to keep in mind during any renovation or upgrade project.

For example, when the old tub needs to be removed, the cost of demolition, plumbers, and purchasing the new tub can be pretty high.

However, refinishing can give a great result without the high price tag.

By choosing refinishing your bathtub, you can extend its life and improve your bathroom’s appearance without the time and cost of a full remodel.

Can You Refinish Your Bathtub Yourself?

Yes, but it depends on the condition of your tub and your comfort with the process.

Refinishing your bathtub is one of the easiest ways to refresh your bathroom without a full renovation.

DIY kits are inexpensive and can improve the look of a worn tub, but the results typically don’t last as long as a professional job.

Expect about 1 to 3 years of durability from a DIY refinishing, compared to 10 to 15 years from a professional application.

Also consider the fumes and chemicals involved. Bathroom Refinishing products can be toxic, and proper ventilation is critical. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to work with a licensed professional.

Is It Better to DIY or Hire a Professional?

You might be tempted to try a DIY bathtub refinishing kit, especially if you’re handy.

These kits are available at home improvement stores and usually include a bonding agent, topcoat, and tools. While DIY can save money upfront, it comes with some risks.

Improper surface prep is one of the biggest reasons DIY reglazing jobs peel or fail within months.

Fumes from the coating can also be hazardous if not used with proper ventilation. And even with careful work, it’s tough to match the smooth, even finish of a professional bathtub refinishing job.

If you want long-lasting results that look professionally done, hiring a refinishing specialist is usually the better option.

Bathroom Refinishing At Specialized Refinishing

Tub refinishing is not for everyone. But it offers a return on investment like few other home upgrades. Contact Specialized Refinishing today with any bathtub refinishing questions!

We’re more than happy to answer them and set up a time to come out for an in-person consultation.

If you’re unsure whether refinishing your bathtub is right for you, talk to a local expert.

FAQs About Bathtub Refinishing

How long does refinishing a bathtub last?
A professionally refinished bathtub can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive tools, and stick to non-scratch sponges and mild soap.

Is bathtub refinishing safe for kids and pets?
Yes, once cured, the surface is completely safe. However, you should wait the full recommended time (usually 24 to 48 hours) before using the tub, and keep children and pets out of the bathroom during the refinishing process due to fumes.

Can all types of tubs be refinished?
Most tubs, including porcelain, fiberglass, cast iron, and acrylic can be refinished. A refinishing expert will usually inspect the surface first to ensure it’s a good candidate.

How long before I can use my tub again?
You’ll typically need to wait 24 to 48 hours before using a refinished tub. This allows the coating to fully cure and bond to the surface.