A damaged or worn-out bathtub can be an eyesore. It may be the first thing you and your guests notice every time you enter the bathroom. You don’t necessarily have to replace your old tub, as you may be able to reglaze it to make it look like new.
What is Bathtub Reglazing?
Reglazing is a process that involves applying a new chemical coating to restore the appearance of an old tub. You should hire a professional if you do not have experience with this type of work. A technician will sand the bathtub to remove the old finish, repair any chips or cracks and spray on a new coating. The reglazing process is completed in several phases.
Reglazing a bathtub can be much less expensive than replacing it. A reglazed tub may last as long as a new bathtub, or possibly even longer. You will need to use appropriate products to clean the tub to avoid damaging the new finish.
Pros and Cons of Replacing Your Old Tub
If you decide to replace the bathtub, it will need to be removed from the house. Depending on the weight of the tub, you and some friends may be able to do the job yourselves, or you may have to hire contractors. You will also have to figure out how to dispose of it.
Replacing a bathtub can be costly, even if you choose an inexpensive replacement. You might encounter additional costs that could add hundreds or thousands of dollars to the price tag. For example, some of the existing flooring may be damaged and may have to be replaced. In addition, the plumbing fixtures for bathtubs are not uniform. If your new tub does not match the existing plumbing, you may have to hire a plumber to adjust or replace fixtures.
Which Option is Right for You?
Whether you decide to reglaze or replace the bathtub, you can expect the process to take a few days. If you have your tub reglazed, you will still be able to use the rest of the bathroom while the work is in progress. If you have the tub replaced, you won’t be able to use the bathroom until the work has been completed.
If you only want to improve the appearance of the bathtub and cost is a top priority, reglazing is probably the way to go. If you are planning to completely remodel the bathroom, installing a new tub may be a better choice, but you should consider the quality of your existing tub. Older bathtubs are often of much better quality than newer ones. If your current tub is well made and in good condition, you might get better results from reglazing than you could if you installed a new tub of inferior quality.
