Bathtub Resurfacing

Bathtub resurfacing is a great money saving alternative to purchasing a new bathtub. Why purchase a brand new tub when your existing one can be repaired or resurfaced at a fraction of the cost, whilst providing a great look.

Bathtub resurfacing (also referred to as re-glazing or refinishing) is simply the process of adding a new surface or finish to a bathtub. Doing this will give the tub the look of being brand new. It can be done quickly and cheaply, and in a variety of methods. The most common and best method to resurface your bathtub is to have it cleaned with a strong industrial cleaner, then repair any cracks and chips, have the tub waterproofed, then have a bonding agent applied, and then finally add the new acrylic based surface.

Benefits Of Bathtub Resurfacing

Replacing an old bathtub can be a very expensive and inconvenient process. Removing a bathtub from your bathroom can take a long time due to the need to break tiles when removing the bathtub, and then retiling afterwards. Then there is the plumbing to consider, both removing the old bathtubs plumbing, and connecting the new one. Most people simply do not have the skills to do this, and will therefore have to hire a professional. The labour costs alone can run to over a thousand dollars, and a decent bathtub can cost between five hundred and eight hundred dollars. The whole process of removing an old bathtub, and purchasing and installing a new tub can easily total over two thousand dollars.

Bathtub resurfacing avoids all this cost and hassle. No plumbing or retiling is required, and the resurfacing only takes a couple of hours to complete, plus one days drying time. Your tub can be looking new and ready to use again within 24 hours. The total cost of resurfacing can be as low as four hundred dollars (if hiring a professional), saving hundreds if not thousands of dollars if done instead of a complete tub replacement. No tiles will be broken, no plumbing is needed, and no re-plastering or re-painting is required. You can also resurface your bathtub yourself, for as little as fifty dollars, although it is recommended that you only do this if you are knowledgeable about the process.

Bathtub Resurfacing Information

The best resurfacing methods are non acidic. Some people still use acidic methods however these are no longer recommended as the acid continues to eat away at the bathtub after the new surface has been applied. This can cause extreme damage to the tub. The final result of a professionally done bathtub resurfacing should be a shiny, glossy, smooth to the touch finish that makes the tub look brand new. The new surface will usually extend the life of the bathtub by up to 15 years with proper maintenance and cleaning. Remember, keeping your tub cleaned and well maintained will mean you avoid the huge expensive of having to replace it. It is recommended not to use an abrasive or harsh cleaner, regular cleaning with lighter materials is always the better option.

If you are trying to achieve a newer and cleaner look for your bathroom, perhaps in preparation for selling your house, you can also resurface your bathroom sink, toilet, tiles and any other porcelain surface to give your entire bathroom a glossy, new, shiny appearance. This can dramatically improve the overall appearance of your bathroom, and do away the need for redecoration.

For ways to improve your bathroom other than bathtub resurfacing check out our articles on bathtub surrounds bathtub liners and bathtub paint