Professionally Refinish Your Bathtub for 70% Less Than Replacement
Is your bathtub looking worn out and dated? Before you go through the expense and mess of ripping it out, consider bathtub refinishing. Hiring a professional to refinish your tub can restore it to a like-new condition for a fraction of replacement cost.
With professional refinishing, you can save thousands and get back the functionality and beauty of your bathtub in no time.
Problems with Old Bathtubs
Over time, bathtubs accumulate chips, cracks, stains, and discoloration. No amount of scrubbing will make them look new again. The surfaces become porous and rough, providing places for mold, bacteria, and grime to take hold.
It's not just about looks - deteriorating bathtub surfaces become difficult to clean and keep hygienic. Replacing the caulk and other maintenance can seem endless. At a certain point, the eyesore and headaches of an old worn-out tub aren't worth it.
Cost of Bathtub Replacement
Before replacing, consider that ripping out and installing a new tub and surround can cost $2,000 to over $5,000. The costs add up quickly:
- Removal of old tub - $200-$500
- New bathtub unit - $600-$2000
- Tile, fixtures, plumbing - $500-$2000
- Installation labor - $500-$2000
This high cost doesn't even factor in construction mess, loss of use during install, and remodeling adjacent areas. Just getting rid of an old cast iron or steel tub can be a huge headache before you ever start replacing it.
What is Bathtub Refinishing?
Bathtub refinishing (also called re-glazing or resurfacing) is the process of restoring the surface of a worn tub to a like-new, factory-fresh finish. It involves stripping off the old finish, making repairs, and spraying on new durable coatings.
Professional refinishers use commercial-grade tools, chemicals, fillers, primers and finishes designed to bond strongly and create a glass-like surface that looks flawless and lasts for years.
Benefits of Professional vs DIY Refinishing
While DIY refinishing kits are available, professional refinishing offers superior results and longevity. DIY kits can achieve decent facelifts, but the finishes are not as durable or seamless.
Professionals are trained to properly prep surfaces, repair damage, apply special etching chemicals, and use commercial-grade coating products and equipment. The result is a finish indistinguishable from a brand new tub - no uneven textures or drip marks.
Professional refinishing costs a bit more upfront but lasts 2-3 times longer than DIY kits, so it's worth the investment.
Professional Refinishing Process Explained
Surface Preparation
Thorough prep work ensures the new coatings properly bond to the tub surface. The old finish is completely stripped using chemical solutions or manual scrapers. Any rust spots, chips or cracks are repaired with fillers.
The entire surface is abraded to create a profile for the coating to mechanically adhere. An acid etching solution provides chemical bonding power as well.
Spray Application
Using an airless sprayer, the professional applies primer, hardener, and finally the durable acrylic urethane top coat. The tub is then baked at 150degF to cure the finish.
Multiple coats may be applied for maximum durability, resulting in a hard, glossy top coat up to 10 mils thick. The tub looks and functions like new again.
Cost Savings of Professional Refinishing
The average cost for professional bathtub refinishing ranges from $300 to $1000 depending on the size and condition. This represents 60-70% savings compared to replacement costs of $2000 to $5000+.
You avoid demolition, construction, plumbing, tile work, and buying a new tub. The job is completed in a day or less. Refinishing is clearly the more affordable option.
Bathtub Refinishing Before and After Examples
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Refinishing can transform even severely damaged and discolored tubs into flawless, gleaming showpieces. Acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain, cast iron and other tubs all benefit greatly.
How Long Does a Refinished Tub Last?
With proper surface preparation and application by a professional, expect a refinished bathtub to last 5-15 years or longer. DIY kits may only last 1-5 years before requiring touch ups.
Following care instructions like allowing proper cure time before use, avoiding abrasives, and cleaning gently preserves the finish. With light maintenance, your restored tub will stay beautiful and functional for years.
Finding a Professional for Bathtub Refinishing
When hiring a pro, check they are licensed, insured, and experienced with excellent reviews. Request to see past work and examples.
A quality refinisher will walk you through the process, defects repairs, timeline, and provide a warranty on the work performed. The results will rejuvenate your bathroom and add value to your home.
Don't endure an outdated, damaged bathtub or pay thousands for replacement. For 70% less cost, professional refinishing transforms your existing tub into a pristine, shower-ready fixture that recaptures the look and functionality you want.
Contact a professional bathtub refinishing service today to get an estimate. You'll be shocked at how fast and affordably your dream bathtub can become a reality.