Bathtub Refinishing Cost

Before you start calculating the hefty cost of a brand-new tub and installation, let me share a game-changing alternative—bathtub refinishing. When tackling a previous flip house; the bathtub was in desperate need of an update. Instead of replacing it, we opted for refinishing, and the transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Not only did it save us money, but it also gave the bathroom a stunning facelift. Let’s take a walk through the process of bathtub refinishing, detailing the costs involved and sharing some insights from our own experience

Understanding Bathtub Refinishing

Bathtub refinishing, also known as reglazing, involves a process of cleaning the surface of the tub, repairing any damages, and applying new paint and a finishing coat to give it a fresh, new appearance. This method can address issues like stains, small cracks, and a dull finish without the need for a full replacement.

Below you can see the bathroom from our flip house before we started the remodel. It’s obvious that we did quite a bit of work on this bathroom, but taking down the shower glass doors and refinishing the bathtub were two major changes to giving this bathroom the facelift it needed.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation: The first step in refinishing a bathtub is thorough preparation. This involves removing any existing caulk, cleaning the bathtub meticulously to remove dirt, soap scum, and residues, and fixing any visible damages such as chips or cracks.
2. Sanding: After the tub is cleaned and dried, the next step is sanding down the entire surface. This roughens up the surface so that the new paint can adhere better, ensuring a finish that lasts longer.
3. Priming and Painting: Once sanded, a primer is applied. After the primer has dried, multiple layers of a specialized coating are applied. These coatings are typically epoxy or acrylic-based. The choice of material and the number of layers depend largely on the current state of the tub and the desired finish. Refinishing kits are available and make this process very easy.
4. Sealing: The final step is sealing the paint with a topcoat. This not only provides a glossy sheen but also seals everything in, making the surface waterproof and more durable.

How Much Does Bathroom Refinishing Cost?

When it comes to cost, refinishing a bathtub is considerably more budget-friendly than replacing it. On average, refinishing a bathtub can cost anywhere from $300 to $600, depending on the region and specific condition of the bathtub. In our flip house project, we spent around $450, which included all the materials and labor. This was a fraction of what a complete replacement and installation would have cost us, not to mention the saved hassle and time.

Why Choose Bathtub Refinishing?

The benefits of refinishing a bathtub extend beyond cost savings. It’s a quicker solution than replacing a bathtub, typically taking just a day or two compared to several days or more for a full replacement. Refinishing can extend the life of your bathtub by 10 to 15 years if properly maintained. It’s an environmentally friendly option too, as it reduces waste by keeping the old tub out of a landfill.

Refinishing your bathtub can be an excellent way to update your bathroom without the hefty expense or extensive renovations involved in replacing the bathtub. It’s a practical, economical, and environmentally friendly choice that can still deliver that ‘wow’ factor you’re looking for in a bathroom makeover.