Cost of Bathtub Refinishing: Pros, Cons, and Average Prices
By ProMatcher Staff
Refinishing Your Bathtub
On average, you can expect to spend about $380-510 to reglaze or refinish a standard-size bathtub. However, there are several items that may increase (or decrease) the total cost of your unique project, including:
- Your location and local labor rates
- The size of your bathtub
- Current condition of tub (scratches, dents, etc.)
- Plumbing modifications or repairs
- Making changes to the tub surround
The Good (and the Bad)
Let’s learn about the pros and cons of refinishing your bathtub rather than replacing the entire thing. Ready to get started? Request free price estimates from local contractors. Get matched in minutes to pros in your area.
Pros:- It’s much cheaper than replacing the entire bathtub. You will only be spending a few hundred dollars (rather than a few thousand).
- There’s less mess. It can be very challenging to remove and replace an existing bathtub. The existing tub may have to be broken into several pieces just to get it out of the bathroom. There’s a chance that surrounding tile and framing can become damaged during the demolition process.
- It’s super fast! Reglazing the tub only takes a few hours and you can begin re-using the tub within 48 hours. A full bathroom remodel can take weeks and completely disrupt your life.
Cons:- You will not be able to the change the layout of your bathroom or the style of the tub. However, you can change the color or replace the surrounding tile.
- Over time, the glaze may chip or peel if not done properly. It’s important to work with an experienced contractor who offers a warranty on the work performed.
- Your bathroom may smell a little like nail polish remover for a few hours. However, the fumes should dissipate rather quickly.
Is refinishing right for your tub?
Unfortunately, your tub may not be a good candidate for refinishing. For example, an acrylic tub cannot be reglazed. However, if you have a porcelain or fiberglass bathtub that is in decent shape, re-glazing may be a viable option.
If your tub has major surface damage, repairing these scratches and imperfections will increase the total cost of your project. If there is severe surface damage, it may not be possible to refinish the tub at all.
If this is the case, total bathtub replacement is not your only option. You may also consider installing a tub or shower liner. The liner will fit snugly over your existing tub. To learn more about the cost of installing a tub liner, check out our Tub Liners Cost Report.
Can I refinish the tub myself?
In most cases, tub refinishing is not a do-it-yourself project. Although kits are available, there is no guarantee that you will be happy with the results. You cannot expect professional quality results from a DIY kit.
We typically recommend hiring a professional to refinish a tub. Before hiring a contractor, request several estimates from pros in your area. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. It's also important to verify that the contractor is properly licensed and insured. Get all of the project details in writing, including information about the warranty, to avoid any surprises down the road.
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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