Is Resurfacing a Bathtub worth the money?

Why not Just Replace the Bathtub?

Before you decide to replace that old bathtub with a new one, you may want to consider resurfacing it. Resurfacing that old tub may save you loads of cash, and a throbbing headache! Over the past 20 years or so, new products have come on the market for resurfacing old Bathtubs instead of replacing them. The first of these early products had their fair share of problems, even when done by a professional who new exactly how to apply the resurfacing finish in a high-quality manner. The older materials would peal and chip within months and can not be compared to the modern bathtub plasticizing products of today. As time went by, the products and methods became more reliable for a longer period of time. Today, You may be very surprised to learn that you can have your ugly old bathtub resurfaced for far less money and with a much longer lifespan than imagined. All of which keep your wallet in the green and your stress level at a minimum.

Removing a Built-In Bathtub

If you're thinking you can save some money by removing the old bathtub yourself, you should read this first...

When you go to replace a built-in bathtub, expect the old bathtub to be locked in place by the plaster or wallboard above and in front of it. A layer of flooring may also be holding it in place. With a standard tub, you'll need to remove bout 3 feet of drywall above the tub and 1 foot in front of it. In case of a plaster wall, remove both plaster and lath. You will have to use a reciprocating saw to cut away the plaster. Cut out the old faucet and drain, as well.

With a steel or cast-iron tub, pry between the tub apron and the floor, using a flat bar. Pry from one end only, and when it pops loose, slide a shim under the apron and pry again. With a steel tub, you can then just lift that end and stand it up. However in the case of a cast-iron tub, which weighs over 300 pounds, continue to shim until you can fit a 2X4 under the apron. Pry with the 2X4, and block the tub until you have the apron about 2 feet off of the floor on one end. Then, with the help of a couple of strong good friends, lift it upright and walk it out.

In the case of a fiberglass tub-shower, cut it into pieces with the reciprocating saw and carry them out by hand. These units are usually too big to fit through the doors and down a hallway.

Now, if you still think this is the method for you, I wish you a happy day of bathtub removal. However, if you would like to consider another, less back-breaking method continue to read below.

• To find a resurfacing company near Napa, California
• Do it yourself Bathtub refinishing (kits and directions)
• National contacts for bathtub reglazing
• See coating the scores the best in overall performance

How Easy is it to Have a Bathtub Resurfaced?

If it's time to replace that old bathtub, think about resurfacing it instead. You can hire a company to resurface it for about $300 to $500, depending on the company and your bathroom design logistics. This might be worth the cost to you when you consider the combined costs of replacing, including wall repair and a new tub, faucet, drain, and shower bay during the replacement process.

The resurfacing process usually consist of removing the drain fittings, masking off the tub area and applying an etching solution or some other chemical-bonding agent. The installer then sprays on several coats of a plastic top coat, removes the masking tape, and installs the drain fittings. These rather thick finishes are available in a number of different colors that will match your design needs. This entire process has the professional resurfacing specialist in and out of your home in just a day or two. Which rings of a convenience rarely known in the bathtub replacement world!

The materials used in these preparations have been improved, but the key factors in durability still have more to do with the diligence of the installer and the cleaning habits of the owner. If you use the tub only occasionally or are good about wiping it clean with each use, a new synthetic finish should last over 10 years.

Most of the legitimate companies that do this type of resurfacing of tubs, tile, and cabinets, offer a warranty and will handle any repairs that may happen during the life of the warranty free of charge.