Ever heard of the phrase, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater?”
In the home improvement world, this saying can be perfectly applicable to your good old bathtub.
Maybe it’s starting to look a bit tired, a bit worn, a bit dull. But hold on, here’s the real deal: You don’t need to replace that antique clawfoot tub just yet!
Let’s talk about refinishing, resurfacing, and reglazing – all parts of the bathtub restoration process that breathe new life into your tired, old, discolored, or scratched bathtubs.
Intrigued? Well, come on in, the water’s fine!
Bathtub Refinishing: The Ultimate Makeover
Just like your favorite reality TV show, refinishing a bathtub involves a complete transformation. From a duckling to a swan, it’s all about general repairs, buffing, sanding, cleaning, and finally, reglazing.
Remember, bathtub refinishing and resurfacing are often used interchangeably, but there’s a slight difference.
Bathtub Refinishing involves repairing any damages on the bathtub surface, such as chips, scratches, or stains, then applying a new finish layer. It’s akin to repainting a car, enhancing the tub’s appearance, and extending its lifespan while maintaining the original material underneath.
Bathtub Resurfacing is essentially a more comprehensive form of refinishing. It involves not only fixing surface damages but also sanding down the existing surface, which can correct deeper issues. Then, a new surface material is applied. This can drastically change the bathtub’s appearance, making it look almost brand new.
More on bathroom refinishing – What can we refinish?
The Bathtub Refinishing Cost
I know, I know, you’re wondering about the price tag. It’s only natural. The good news? Bathtub refinishing won’t break the bank. The main cost is labor, and materials run around $100-$150.
The cost also depends on the tub material, type, and condition.
The average cost of professional bathtub refinishing with an experienced technician falls between $300-$600. According to Architectural Digest, the average invoice price for a standard refinishing job sits pretty at about $480.
Not too shabby, right?
Bathtub Resurfacing: A Step in the Right Direction
In the journey to a brand new-looking bathtub, resurfacing is a crucial step that’s sandwiched between repair and reglazing. It includes all the work you do to the tub’s surface after repairs and before reglazing.
Tasks like caulking spaces and grouting shower tiles are part of resurfacing but often happen after reglazing.
Bathtub Reglazing: The Finishing Touch
The third step of this trinity process is reglazing, which you can think of as the frosting on your cake or the cherry on top. It adds gloss to the final piece.
Like putting a fresh coat of paint on a vintage car, only that instead of regular paint, you apply epoxy—a harder, more durable material.
The Bathtub Reglazing Cost
Okay, so we’ve reached the finale of our process.
But how much will the reglazing cost?
As stated in Forbes, the cost can range from as low as $300 to as high as $1000, depending on the material. Adding an enamel finish could take on an extra $300-$600.
Because of this, it’s always a smart idea to request a free quote from 2-3 contractors to get the best cost estimate.
The Bathtub Liner Alternative
Hold on! There’s another option: Liners.
Instead of reglazing, you can choose to put a new surface on your tub in the form of a custom liner.
But wait till you hear this; it’s a little like dressing your tub in a tailor-made suit. While it might sound fancy, it’s a process that’s more time-consuming and more expensive.
The Liner or Reglazing Dilemma
So, when to choose a liner over reglazing? If your bathtub has structural issues like cracks, a liner could be your best bet.
Although liners can be more expensive and may not last as long (typically less than 5 years), they can cover up structural problems effectively.
Factors Determining Bathtub Refinishing and Reglazing Costs
Material Type
Different materials require different levels of labor and inputs. The cost of reglazing a porcelain tub may differ from that of reglazing a cast iron tub or a fiberglass tub.
Porcelain tubs may need extra attention, especially if you have a clawfoot antique, but they’re generally cheaper as they require less labor. Reglazing costs for porcelain can range from $300 to $1000.
A cast iron tub, on the other hand, costs between $300 and $650, according to Forbes, while a fiberglass tub can cost between $250 and $450.
Bathtub Size
Size matters!
A larger tub will require more epoxy, more labor, and hence more moolah. Whether it’s a porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, or cast iron tub, the larger it is, the heavier it is in your pocket.
Tub Condition
The cost will also depend on the condition of your bathtub. The level of damage, rust, staining, discoloration, and scratching will determine the amount of work needed.
More labor hours will cost you more, and it will also require more resources.
Longevity of Bathtub Reglazing
You’re probably wondering, “Well, how long will this last?”
Good question. If you treat your tub right and use the proper cleaning agents, a reglazed tub can give you at least 10 more years of service.
Refinishing Vs. Reglazing
Picture this: Refinishing is like baking a cake from scratch, and reglazing is like adding the icing on top.
You wouldn’t put the icing on an unbaked cake, would you? That’s why you can’t reglaze a bathtub that hasn’t been refinished or resurfaced.
To Refinish or Replace
Let’s cut to the chase. Should you refinish your bathtub or replace it?
As a rule of thumb, refinishing is the first option before you consider replacing it. Why?
Refinishing can breathe new life into your tub for another 10-15 years at a fraction of the replacement cost.
Benefits of Bathtub Resurfacing
Refinishing a bathtub extends its life, improves its appearance, and can even change its color.
It also saves you from additional costs such as plumbing work, retiling, and overall bathroom remodels that come with a complete replacement.
Here at Bay State Refinishing, we are experts at bathtub refinishing. We can bring your bathtub back to life, delivering a decade of freshness. So don’t hesitate to give us a call.
After all, why buy a new tub when you can simply re-energize the old one?
Maintenance and Longevity
In order to maintain the longevity of a reglazed or refinished bathtub, it is important to clean it and avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners regularly. These can damage the new finish and reduce the lifespan of your bathtub.
It’s recommended to use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths to keep your tub looking new.
Also, avoid leaving any standing water in your bathtub for long periods, as this may damage the finish.
Importance of Hiring a Professional
The process of reglazing, resurfacing, or performing bathtub restoration is a complex one and requires specialized skills and tools.
While there are DIY kits available in the market for repairing your tub, they often do not provide the same level of finish and durability as professional reglazing services.
DIY attempts can lead to a poor finish that may peel or crack, leading to the need for a complete bathtub replacement.
Moreover, professionals have experience working with a variety of bathtub materials and understand the best techniques to use for each.
This ensures that the job is done correctly and will last for many years.
Choosing a Bathtub Refinishing Contractor
When it comes to choosing a contractor for your bathtub refinishing or renovation project or deciding whether to refinish vs. replace bathtub cost being a consideration, there are a few important factors to consider.
1. First and foremost, you should ensure the contractor has a good reputation and positive reviews. They should be able to provide you with references from previous customers.
2. Next, ensure that they have the necessary licenses and insurance to carry out the work. This will protect you in the event of any accidents or damage during the project.
3. Also, get a clear quote for the work to be done. This should include a breakdown of all costs so that you understand exactly what you are paying for. Avoid contractors who provide vague quotes without any detail, as this may indicate a lack of transparency.
4. Finally, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from several contractors to compare prices and services. This will ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
Eco-Friendly Refinishing
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact or reglazing toxicity concerns associated with bathtub refinishing, there are eco-friendly options available.
Many professionals now offer services using low VOC (volatile organic compound) products that are less harmful to the environment and your health, ensuring product safety.
Be sure to ask your contractor about these options if this is a priority for you.
In Conclusion
Refinishing, resurfacing a bathtub, and reglazing, even of difficult materials like a fiberglass tub, porcelain sink, or an acrylic bathtub, are cost-effective and efficient ways to restore the look and functionality of your bathtub without the need for a complete replacement.
By understanding the processes involved, you can make an informed decision about the best approach for your bathroom.
Always remember to hire a reputable professional and discuss all your requirements and concerns in advance to ensure you are satisfied with the final result.
For top-tier bathtub refinishing services and considering the bathtub restoration cost, look no further than Bay State Refinishing.
We specialize in refinishing, resurfacing, or resurfacing a tile floor and reglazing bathtubs, giving them a fresh, new look that lasts for years.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get a free quote for your bathtub restoration project.
Our service areas also include but are not limited to Hingham, Salem, Waban, Sharon, Weymouth, Winthrop, and Needham.
