Refinishing or reglazing your bathtub can give it a fresh, modern look without the high cost of replacement. It sounds like the perfect bathroom upgrade—cheap, quick, and transformative. But, hidden fees, maintenance issues, and durability concerns make some question if they’re truly saving money.
While refinishing makes your tub look new, it won’t last forever. Peeling, chipping, and touch-ups can turn an “affordable upgrade” into a costly issue. Before spending, consider the true risks—just like understanding the air duct cleaning cost or average cost of air duct cleaning. Hidden fees, like vent cleaning cost, add up fast.
What is Bathtub Refinishing?
Bathtub refinishing, also called reglazing, is a process that gives an old, worn-out tub a fresh new look without replacing it. A special coating is applied to restore its shine, cover stains, and fix minor damage. It’s a quick and affordable way to upgrade your bathroom without the mess and high cost of a full remodel.
However, refinishing isn’t permanent. The coating wears down over time, causing peeling or chipping. Proper care extends its life, but quality varies. A well-done job saves money, while poor work leads to costly repairs—much like underestimating the duct cleaning price, which can result in unexpected expenses if not carefully considered.
6 Signs You Should Refinish Your Bathtub
Refinishing your bathtub is a cost-effective way to restore its appearance and durability, especially as wear and tear affect both over time. It’s a practical alternative to replacement. Similarly, comparing air duct cleaning prices helps homeowners maintain air quality without overspending.
1. Rust Stains
If you notice rust stains in your tub, it’s a sign that the protective enamel or surface seal is wearing down. Over time, this weakens the material, leading to chipping and sharp edges. If ignored, rust can spread and damage the tub’s structure, making refinishing necessary—just like addressing air duct cleaning prices to prevent costly future repairs.
2. Chips and Cracks
Small chips and cracks may seem harmless, but they worsen over time. In cast-iron tubs, chips expose the metal beneath, making it prone to rust and corrosion. Refinishing seals these imperfections, preventing further damage. Similarly, knowing the right duct cleaning price ensures long-term efficiency and prevents hidden maintenance costs.
3. Discoloration and Fading
Bathtubs naturally fade or discolor with age due to water exposure, cleaning chemicals, and everyday use. While this doesn’t affect functionality, it can make the tub look old and unappealing, especially if you’re planning to sell your home. Refinishing can restore its original color, giving it a fresh, like-new look.
4. Persistent Dirt and Stains
If your tub never looks clean, even after scrubbing, the glaze may be breaking down. Over time, worn-out glaze allows dirt, soap scum, and grime to seep into the surface, making stains permanent. Refinishing reseals the tub, making it easier to clean and maintain for years to come.
5. Rough or Worn Surface
A bathtub should feel smooth and glossy, but if yours is rough or dull, the protective coating is likely deteriorating. This makes the tub look outdated and traps bacteria. Refinishing restores its sleek surface, similar to how maintaining air duct cleaning prices ensures long-term cleanliness in your home.
6. Outdated Appearance
Even if your tub is in good condition, an outdated color or design might make your bathroom look old-fashioned. Instead of replacing it, refinishing lets you update the color to a modern, neutral tone, instantly enhancing the aesthetic and value of your bathroom without the high cost of replacement.
6 Factors that Affect the Price of Bathtub Refinishing
Refinishing a bathtub may seem simple, but it’s important to consider all available options before making a decision. Taking the time to evaluate your choices ensures the best outcome for your bathtub’s restoration.
1. Materials Used
The refinishing method you choose will determine the cost of materials. Liners or inlays are custom-made covers that fit over your existing bathtub. Their price depends on the size and shape of your tub. While they may cost more than other refinishing options, they offer a durable and long-lasting solution.
If you choose reglazing, your costs will include special chemicals, paint, and tools needed to apply a new coating. Professional refinishing services usually include these materials in their pricing, but if you go the DIY route, you’ll need to buy them separately. Just as the cost to clean air ducts depends on quality service, the durability of your refinished tub relies on the materials used.
2. Labor
Refinishing a bathtub takes 3 to 5 hours, keeping labor costs low. Professional refinishing costs $335 to $630, with materials at $30 to $150 and labor at $200 to $500 (This Old House). It’s a budget-friendly alternative to replacing a tub, which costs $1,500 to $5,000—similar to managing the average air duct cleaning cost effectively.
For example, if you choose to refinish your tub, you might spend around $500 in total, including labor and materials. In contrast, replacing the entire bathtub could cost $3,000 or more when considering the new tub, plumbing adjustments, and installation labor. Therefore, refinishing not only saves time but also significantly reduces expenses compared to a full replacement.
3. Method Used
The cost of bathtub refinishing depends on the method you choose. Bathtub liners, priced between $2,700 and $10,200, are a long-term solution but must fit perfectly to prevent mildew buildup. Bathtub inlays, costing $100 to $200, are ideal for small cracks and install in 30 minutes. Much like evaluating the air duct cleaning cost, durability matters.
Bathtub reglazing, costing $280 to $600, is a popular choice for fixing rust, chips, and cracks. However, the chemicals produce strong fumes. Reglazing takes two to five hours and lasts three to five years, while liners last 15 years. Like the average cost of air duct cleaning, refinishing costs vary by need and budget.
4. Tub Condition
The condition of your bathtub plays a big role in the cost of refinishing. If your tub has minor damage—like small chips, light scratches, or surface wear—you’ll likely pay on the lower end of the price range. Simple touch-ups require less labor and fewer materials, making refinishing a cost-effective way to refresh your tub.
However, major damage such as deep cracks, large scratches, or gouges requires extra work. These issues must be filled, sanded, and smoothed before reglazing, which increases both time and cost. Severe damage might even require a bathtub liner or full replacement, so assessing your tub’s condition beforehand can help you plan for the most durable solution.
5.Bathtub Type
The type of bathtub you have affects the overall cost of refinishing. A simple rule is that larger tubs with more surface area cost more to resurface. Inset tubs are the most affordable, as they only require refinishing on one exterior side. On average, refinishing a tub-shower combo costs between $600 and $1,000.
Freestanding and claw-foot tubs are the most expensive to refinish, ranging from $400 to $1,400. Their deeper interiors and fully exposed exteriors require more materials and labor. Shower tubs also cost more because their wall surfaces need refinishing. Choosing the right refinishing method for your tub type can save money while achieving a fresh, new look.
6. Bathtub Materials
These are the different bathtub materials and their resurfacing costs. Each material requires a unique refinishing process, affecting the price and difficulty of the job.
- Porcelain – Refinishing a porcelain tub typically costs $350 to $600, but antique porcelain claw-foot tubs are more expensive, ranging from $500 to $1,200. Most porcelain tubs have a thin porcelain coating over cast iron or steel, requiring careful reglazing to maintain their smooth, glossy finish.
- Enamel – Enamel is a protective coating, not a standalone material, commonly applied to steel and cast-iron tubs for a smooth, glossy finish. Reglazing costs $350–$600, restoring its shine and durability while preventing rust and wear over time. Proper maintenance extends its lifespan.
- Fiberglass –Fiberglass tubs are the most expensive to refinish, costing between $300 and $1,000, because they require special care. The material is delicate and flexible, making it harder to work with. Extra sanding and multiple coating layers are needed to achieve a smooth, durable finish.
- Cast Iron – A cast-iron tub is known for its exceptional durability and can last over 100 years with proper care. Refinishing costs between $350 and $600, making it a cost-effective solution to restore its classic appearance while preserving its strength and quality.
Refinish, Don’t Replace!
Instead of throwing out an old tub, refinishing reduces landfill waste while restoring its original shine. With thousands of homeowners choosing refinishing each year, it’s clear that this is a smart, sustainable, and cost-effective solution.
Ready to give your bathtub a fresh new look? Vegas Plumbing Pros is here to help! Don’t waste thousands on a replacement—refinish, restore, and save with our expert services. Join thousands of homeowners choosing a smart, sustainable upgrade today. Contact us now and transform your tub for less!
FAQS
Is it worth it to refinish a bathtub?
Refinishing is a great option if your bathtub is still in good condition. It can smooth out scratches, hide stains, and repair small cracks, restoring its original look. However, if your tub has major cracks, leaks or severe damage, replacing it might be the better long-term solution for your bathroom.
How long does it take to reglaze a tub?
Refinishing a bathtub takes two to four hours, but you must wait 24 to 48 hours before use. With proper care, a refinished tub lasts over 10 years. Good ventilation is essential, similar to managing the HVAC cleaning cost for better air quality. Installing a new tub takes about four hours.
Should I refinish my bathtub or replace it?
Installing a new bathtub is costly, making refinishing the budget-friendly choice. If your tub has minor damage, refinishing restores its look without demolition. Like managing the average cost of air duct cleaning, refinishing saves money while maintaining quality. It’s an effective way to upgrade your bathroom without the high HVAC cleaning cost of full replacement.
How much does it cost to paint a bathtub?
Painting a bathtub, also called reglazing, costs $200 to $600, depending on size, material, and condition. DIY kits cost $50 to $150, but professional refinishing lasts longer. Like considering the HVAC cleaning cost, investing in quality ensures durability. A properly painted tub, like managing the average cost of air duct cleaning, extends lifespan and reduces expenses.
