Is Bathtub Refinishing Worth the Cost?

Have you just bought a home that needs bathtub refinishing? Or, are you getting ready to sell your home and have been advised to contemplate bathtub refinishing in order to command top dollar? If so, then this article on bathtub refinishing is for you!

However, before you read any further, please note that only professionals, or an experienced do it yourselfer should complete bathtub refinishing. This is not a project that should be attempted by someone with limited experience in home repair and tool usage.

How a bathtub is refinished depends on what it is made from. Bathtub refinishing of older, cast iron, enamel tubs is done by:

· Filling in any visible cracks and chips;
· Thoroughly sanding both the inside and the outside of the tub;
· Acid etching the inside and the outside of the tub to create a surface for the primer to adhere to;
· Priming the entire tub; and lastly
· Painting the inside and the outside of the tub with an enamel finish.

For acrylic tubs, a similar bathtub refinishing process is followed - they first etch the entire area to create a surface for the primer to adhere to, then it is primed, and lastly finished off with an acrylic enamel product. (By the way, this same process can be used to update outdated dishwasher fronts, oven doors and stovetops!)

It is important to note that bathtub refinishing is not always the most cost-effective solution for a homeowner, especially since having a clawfoot tub redone can cost anywhere between $500 and $1000. And, both enamel and acrylic bathtubs need to be removed and taken to the refinisher, as opposed to being done on the spot. Therefore, it may cost less to have a new bathtub installed as opposed to removing, repairing and reinstalling the existing one. Unless of course you live in a vintage home that came with the original bathtub, albeit in need of refinishing.

Having made the decision to invest in bathtub refinishing, it is important to note that once a tub has been refinished and reinstalled in your home, for the new surface to last as long as possible, treat it with care. You will want to make sure that you don’t use a harsh chemical cleaner, but rather a mild cleaner like Bon Ami, which won’t scratch or dull the surface.

If you have decided to have a new bathtub installed instead, home improvement stores often sell a variety of tubs in all different sizes and options - from a basic small bath / shower unit, to jetted Jacuzzi tubs. And, if you decide you want the vintage look without having to consider bathtub refinishing, you can purchase an old world style with modern jets as well.