Bathtub Refinishing


So that dingy old bathtub has seen its better days. Years of scrubbing with harsh cleansers have taken their toll, and now, no matter what product you use, you just can't get all the dirt out of those hair-line scratches.  What do you do? For about the same cost as refinishing, you could buy a new acrylic tub or for about half the cost you could buy a steel tub.

So why refinish?

Well, there is the matter of removing the old tub.  Wall tiles and floor tiles could easily get damaged.  If you are not planning a complete renovation, and plan to keep the tiles intact, it is best not to move the tub. Also, many older tubs are cast iron and are extremely heavy, and you will be maneuvering this bulk through your house.  And don't forget that you have to dispose of the old tub, which means you will be transporting it to a salvage yard or dump (or paying to have it transported). Thankfully, you have other options.


Acrylic Inserts

Advantages:

Fit right over your existing tub.  Installed quickly with little mess.  Useable the same day.  Acrylic also has the added advantage of holding heat, which means bath water stays warmer longer.

Disadvantage:

Cost. About as much as a low-end whirlpool tub.


Epoxy Paint

Example:  Klenk's Tub and Tile Epoxy.

Advantages:  

Ideal for the do-it-yourselfer.  Can be applied with a brush or a sprayer.  Formula is self-leveling, so brush marks don't show much.  A tough finish with a similar sheen to the original tub finish.  Very inexpensive, compared to the other options.

Disadvantages:

Tub cannot be used for several days.  Questionable durability.


Professional Refinishing

Advantages:

Professional application and warranty.  Comparable to the original factory finish.

Disadvantages:

Tub cannot be used for up to 24 hours.


Calling in the Pros

If you opt to have your tub professionally re-finished, there are a couple of things you should know.  All finishes are not created equal.  The most common finish available takes about 24 hours to cure, and will not stand up to most cleaning products.  In addition, they are usually only warranted for one year.

When we had our tub refinished, we chose a more durable finish.  Yes, it costs substantially more, but it cures in about 12 hours, can be cleaned with any cleaning product, and is warranted for five years.  Well worth the difference in price, if you ask me.


Maintaining your investment

Whether you have a new tub or a re-finished tub, be diligent in removing the tub mat (if it is indeed removable) after each use, and avoid using stick-on anti-slip decals or treads.  Sitting water will damage the finish of your tub.  Often, the surface of a re-finished tub is not as slippery as the original, so you may not need any anti-slip mat at all. Do not use cleansers or harsh abrasives to clean the tub.  Foam cleaners work well and are kinder to the finish.


A Final Note 

Previously re-finished tubs have to be stripped if they are re-finished again, which raises the cost.  Therefore, it is wise to invest in the best finish possible the first time.  The fellow who refinished our tub was very professional:  everything was masked and covered with drop sheets.  An exhaust fan was placed in the window to suck the fumes outside the house.  The odor was barely detectable.  All caulking was removed prior to re-finishing and fresh caulking was applied after the job was finished.  He left no trace behind, except, of course, a gleaming tub.  You should accept no less.