If you have chips in your bathtub or the surface if flaking off, consider refinishing it instead of replacing it.
Refinishing, reglazing, or resurfacing a bathtub can be much cheaper than buying a new bathtub.
Here are some tips and tricks for how to resurface, reglaze, or refinish a bathtub.
photo courtesy of Kris Schreoder flickr.com/photos/krisschroeder/7061506257/Bathtub Liner
The easiest way to resurface a bathtub is to purchase a bathtub liner.
Bathtub liners are glued into the old bathtub.
They can last up to 20 years, however are prone to cracking since they are made of acrylic.
The bathtub liner is made to a specific bathtub's specifications.
This is not a do-it-yourself fix for your bathtub.
Bathtub liners cost around $1300.
Resurfacing Kit
Do-it-yourself bathroom refinishing or resurfacing kits #ad are available from many home improvement stores and at online retailers.
This is the least expensive option for refinishing or resufacing a bathtub.
Doing the project yourself usually requires bathtub preparation, use of cleaners, primers, and fillers as well as spraying on an acrylic coating.
Make sure to read and understand the instructions on the kit you purchase very well.
In order to get a good result, you must take your time and be very precise.
Do not attempt to resurface your bathtub unless you are totally familiar with the process.
Prices for do it yourself bathtub refinishing or reglazing kits start around $30, but some are considerably more expensive.
Refinishing Company
If you do not feel comfortable refinishing or reglazing your bathtub yourself, you can hire a company to do it for about $500 or more.
Many bathtub refinishing companies will tell you that many of their clients tried refinishing their tub themselves and didn't get a professional looking result.
Bathtub refinishing takes 1 to 2 days to complete the process.
Many refinishing companies also refinish bathroom tiles to give them an updated color.
