When your bathtub looks dingy, dull and old, it’s time to consider bathtub refinishing. Instead of tearing out your old tub and replacing it with a brand-new one—and all the associated costs that go with it—you can spend a fraction of the price to refinish your old tub. You’ll get a beautiful, glossy and functional tub in just 24 to 48 hours.
Is bathtub refinishing right for your tub? Read on to learn more about the process.
The refinishing process
Your porcelain or fiberglass tub can easily be restored when you work with the pros. Bathtub refinishing usually takes 24 to 48 hours to complete and cure, at which point you can use your tub again.
The process has several steps. First, your contractor will strip the old finish and sand down the old surface. This creates a smooth foundation to apply the new finish. Next, they’ll repair any holes, chips, cracks or other surface issues that have appeared. Once repaired, they’ll be able to move on to applying the new coating.
The new surface involves applying primer, several layers of the new coating and a sealant. The bathtub’s surface is then buffed to a high shine.
Is bathtub refinishing right for me?
Bathtub refinishing usually costs about $300 to $600. Compare that to about $1,500 to replace your bathtub, at a minimum. Removing and hauling away the old tub, buying a new one and installing it is a long and involved process. You won’t be able to use your bathroom until the new tub is installed. It may also require plumbing and tile work, if the new tub is a different size or shape than your old tub or if damage occurred during the removal of your previous tub.
As long as your tub doesn’t have any major structural damage, it can be refinished. In fact, you can even refinish it in a brand-new color. Although white is a classic choice, many bathtub refinishing contractors are able to refinish your tub in a range of attractive colors.
On the other hand, if you’re interested in getting a new size or shape or a tub with different features—like Jacuzzi jets—bathtub refinishing may not be suitable for you. If, however, you prefer the character or cost-saving quality of your old tub, you can use refinishing to extend your old bathtub’s lifespan.
Bathtub refinishing typically adds 10 to 15 years to your tub’s lifespan—it’s a great way to put off major repairs for another, better time.
Can I do it myself?
There are kits available to refinish your own bathtub. However, we strongly discourage this. Although it’s technically cheaper, there’s a lot more room for user error. You risk getting stuck with an imperfect tub when you go the DIY route.
DIY bathtub refinishing kits are also limited in color, and may not last as long as a professional refinish. Generally, it’s best to do it right the first time and enjoy your good-as-new tub in the coming years.
If your tub and shower are looking a little worse for the wear, you might wonder whether you should spring for professional refinishing, or if you can do it yourself. Chips, scratches, stains and other types of discoloration can make a perfectly functional bath and shower look less than appealing. At the same time, replacing your bathtub is an expensive and time-consuming process, so there’s no sense in doing that unless you absolutely have to.
Should you try DIY shower and bathtub refinishing, or hire a professional? Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages:
Amount of work: If you’re not already a home maintenance professional, the sheer amount of work involved with DIY refinishing might steer you away. You’ll need to remove or tape off the fixtures and thoroughly scrape the tub with a razor first—this can take hours. Then you’ll dull the surface with etching powder, sand it down, clean it, add primer and caulking… and then you can start applying the glaze. This is hard physical work and can take a long time if you don’t know what you’re doing. In contrast, professionals are trained to get the job done as efficiently as possible—as long as you don’t mind having a crew in your home for the day, you can avoid the physical labor.
Finish: There’s no guarantee that you’ll get a nice, clean finish by the time you’re done with your DIY project. While professional refinishing always results in a shiny, glass-like finish, DIY refinishing is more likely to result in drips and brush marks. If you want your shower to look brand new again, there’s no substitute for hiring a professional.
Time: DIY refinishing usually takes a full day or more to prepare the surface, add the glaze and wait for it to dry. You should be able to use your shower about 24 hours after the bathtub refinishing process. When you hire a professional, it should take three to five hours to prep and refinish the tub. The drying time will be similar. If time is of the essence, hire a pro.
Cost: DIY kits usually cost about $100. You can get kits, rollers and brushes online (along with the tape and tools you’ll need to protect the fixtures). Some kits are all-inclusive, while others only provide the glaze. It’s true that this will save you money—but you won’t get the same quality results that you would with a professional refinishing job. On average, a professional job costs just under $500. Most prices range from $300 to $750.
Colors: Finally, your color selection is limited when you go the DIY route. Most DIY kits come in white or off-white. Professional shower and tub refinishers have access to better supplies and a full range of colors, so you should be able to find virtually any shade you need.
If your bathtub is looking a little worse for wear, you’ve probably researched some of your options. You can replace it, of course, which is expensive and time consuming. Alternatively, you could reglaze or refinish your tub. Reglazing and refinishing your bathtub in Phoenix, AZ is a great way to get a little more life out of your tub. It’s a quick and easy process that will leave you with a beautiful, shiny new look.
What is bathtub reglazing and refinishing?
Bathtub reglazing and refinishing are two terms for the same process. It’s suitable for bathtubs that have minor cosmetic imperfections, such as small chips, cracks, stains and dullness. As long as your tub is structurally sound, reglazing can give it new life.
If you decide to refinish your tub, the process is simple. A refinishing contractor will come to your home and sand down your tub’s surface. This smooths the exterior and provides a good surface for the glaze to adhere to. If there are any cracks or chips in the surface, those are filled in and sanded down again.
After the tub is filled and sanded, it will be primed. Your contractor will usually apply several layers of primer to create a brand-new surface. Finally, it will be finished with a shiny clear coat and buffed to perfection.
Once the reglazing process has been completed, you’ll need to wait 24 to 48 hours before you can use the tub. Keep heavy objects away from the tub—don’t let shampoo bottles, toys and other items that could damage the finish fall inside.
That’s all it takes to revive your bathtub and give your bathroom new life!
Benefits of bathtub remodeling in Phoenix, AZ
The biggest benefit to bathtub reglazing is how quick and easy it is to restore your existing tub. If your tub is still in good shape—just aesthetically displeasing—it’s the perfect way to get more time out of your tub. Why go to the hassle and expense of installing a whole new tub? The refinishing process takes just one day, and within two to three days, you’ll be ready to use it again. Replacements can take days or even weeks to complete.
Another great benefit is that refinishing is significantly cheaper than replacement. Most refinishing costs between $250 and $650, depending on the type of tub, the contractor and any specific challenges involved. Replacing your tub costs thousands, especially when you factor in removal and disposal of the old tub.
Ultimately, bathtub reglazing is a great option when you’re not ready to undertake a major renovation project. Depending on the shape it’s in and how well you maintain your tub, you could get another decade or more out of your refinished bathtub.
If you’re interested in reglazing your bathtub, get in touch with A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. today to arrange a consultation. We can walk you through the process, provide a quote and help you decide if refinishing is right for you.
Reglazing is usually an efficient process that can have even the oldest bathtubs looking brand new. If you’ve already had your bathtub reglazed, you might be wondering how long this reglazing will last. Reglazing can last anywhere from five to 15 years, although it depends on many factors, including how well you take care of your bathtub.
If it’s time for bathtub reglazing, you should be sure to have the job done by a professional bathtub refinishing service in Glendale, AZ. Trying to reglaze a bathtub on your own can be time-consuming and even dangerous.
How to tell if your tub needs reglazing
Since the lifespan of your bathtub reglazing can vary based on many factors, it might be hard to tell when it’s time for another coat. One of the biggest things to look out for is any chipping on your bathtub’s finish. It’s best to have these chips fixed as soon as possible to avoid expensive repairs.
Bathtubs should have a glossy look, even when dry. If your tub is starting to lose its sheen, then it’s probably time for another reglazing. Bathtubs that need new reglazing might also start to change colors. Your bathtub could go from bright white to a dingy yellow because of the glaze wearing down.
The good news is that most of these issues can be fixed with reglazing. Check with a professional in Glendale, AZ to determine what improvements should be made to your bathtub.
Maintaining your reglazed bathtub
After investing in professional bathtub reglazing, you’ll want to make sure the results last! There are plenty of ways you can preserve the life of your bathtub reglazing, including the use of non-abrasive cleaners. Abrasive cleaners can include bleach and other harsh chemicals. You’ll probably also want to use sponges and other soft cleaning products as opposed to steel wool.
You should also do your best to avoid dropping anything in the bathtub. Heavy objects can cause chips in the finish, especially if your glazing is already a few years old. If you do notice any chips in the finish, it’s important to not pick at them and cause further damage.
Why a professional should handle the reglazing process
The best way of ensuring your bathtub reglazing lasts as long as possible is to have the job done by a professional. A reputable bathtub refinishing service in Glendale, AZ will utilize the highest-quality materials and equipment on your bathtub. They will also finish the job efficiently, so you won’t be without use of your bathtub for long.
Trying to reglaze your own bathtub is not only less efficient, but can also be very dangerous. Some of the chemicals used to reglaze tubs can produce toxic fumes, which are sometimes deadly. These chemicals should only be handled by professionals to avoid any damage to your home or your health.
Who doesn’t love a relaxing soak in the tub at the end of a busy day? If your tub isn’t in pristine condition, it can seriously put a damper on your daily “me time.” If you’re handy, you might be able to give your tub a quick facelift to bring it up to an acceptable condition. If you rely on the experience and knowledge of a professional bathtub reglazing and remodeling professional in Glendale, AZ, however, you’ll be able to get your tub in perfect shape. Here are some helpful bathtub refinishing tips if you feel like tackling the job yourself:
Collect the right supplies: You’ll need the right supplies to properly refinish your bathtub. Some essentials include a paint sprayer and a bathtub reglazing A paint tray and brush, masking tape, safety glasses and a respirator are some of the other paint-related products you’ll need for the job. Some non-abrasive cleaning powder, paper towels and gloves help you keep yourself and the rest of the bathroom clean.
Clean the tub: Begin the refinishing process by getting your tub completely clean. Remove the drain and its cover as well as the caulking around the edges of the tub. Use your cleaning powder to completely remove any dirt, mildew and soap scum that’s lingering on your tub and tub surround. Give the tub a thorough rinse once you’re done scrubbing.
Start sanding: Follow the directions on your bathtub reglazing kit and remove the current finish from the bathtub using sandpaper if necessary. Pick up any debris by vacuuming the tub and then wiping it with a clean cloth. Give the tub another rinse and allow it to dry.
Remove traces of soap: You can remove traces of soap and other cleaners by applying a solvent or primer reducer. This step gives your primer some extra grip and improves your overall finished product.
Protect unpainted areas: Grab your masking tape and cover any nearby surfaces that aren’t going to be painted. Use plastic wrap to cover fixtures like your faucet and knobs to keep them protected.
Apply primer: Before you mix your primer, be sure to secure your safety mask and goggles. Mix the primer and use a brush, roller or sprayer to apply the primer to the tub. If you have a window in the room, open it for ventilation.
Let the primer dry: Make sure the room is well ventilated and allow the primer to dry.
Apply the top coat: Use a roller or sprayer to lay the top coat. It’s best to work from the bottom up. Make sure the paint is even as you spread it.
Clean up: After painting, take off the masking tape. Remove the plastic wrap only when you’re sure the paint’s completely dry.
As you’ve likely surmised from reading these steps, bathtub refinishing is a difficult task! Many homeowners find that, once they realize how much labor is involved, they’d prefer to hire an expert to tackle this project for them. Luckily, the bathtub refinishing professionals in Glendale, AZ at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. can be relied on to get your tub in perfect condition. Contact us for your next refinishing or reglazing project!
