How Much Does Bathtub Refinishing or Reglazing Cost?
How Much Does Bathtub Refinishing or Reglazing Cost?
Refinishing a bathtub costs $250 to $600, depending on the size, condition, and type. Tub and shower reglazing costs $800 to $1,200 to make the tub and surrounding tile look like new. Bathtub resurfacing is 75% cheaper than replacement and lasts 10 to 15 years.
$250 – $600 cost to refinish a bathtub
$800 – $1,200 cost to refinish a tub & shower
Refinishing a bathtub costs $250 to $600, depending on the size, condition, and type. Tub and shower reglazing costs $800 to $1,200 to make the tub and surrounding tile look like new. Bathtub resurfacing is 75% cheaper than replacement and lasts 10 to 15 years.
Bathtub Refinishing Costs
Bathtub refinishing costs $250 to $600, with most homeowners spending $440 on average. Professional tub resurfacing costs about 75% less than replacement, lasts 10 to 15 years, and provides a glossy finish coating that makes the tub look brand new.
| Project | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Bathtub refinishing | $250 – $600 |
| Tub & shower refinishing | $800 – $1,200 |
Refinishing fixes all chips, cracks, rust, and discoloration to make the tub look brand new again
Bathtub refinishing lasts 10 to 15 years with proper installation
Refinishing is the most affordable option, costing up to 75% cheaper than replacement.
Reglazing takes 2 to 5 hours, and the bathtub will be ready to use again in 48 hours.
Most companies offer a 3- to 10-year warranty.
Tub renovation is also called resurfacing, recoating, respraying, or reglazing.
Although the summertime is the most common time to refinish your tub, pros recommend resurfacing in cooler, less-humid weather during the fall or spring.
Average cost to reglaze a tub
| National Average Cost | $430 |
| Minimum Cost | $200 |
| Maximum Cost | $1,200 |
| Average Range | $250 to $600 |
Tub Reglazing Costs By Type
| Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $250 – $600 |
| Fiberglass Surround w/ Tub | $800 – $1,200 |
| Porcelain | $250 – $600 |
| Cast Iron | $300 – $650 |
Fiberglass Bathtub Refinishing Cost
Fiberglass bathtub refinishing costs $250 to $600, depending on the size and amount of surface damage. Reglazing a fiberglass tub and shower surround costs $800 to $1,200 depending on if it's a one-piece unit or with an enclosed ceiling.
Fiberglass tub refinishing includes repairing minor chips and surface scratches, caulk removal, and recaulking, but extra costs apply if you need a new drain overflow installed.
For older bathtubs, add a flooring inlay before restoration to cover cracks and provide stability. Some companies shy away from refinishing a fiberglass tub because the weakness of the material may cause the new coating to crack easily.
Porcelain Tub Refinishing Cost
Porcelain tub refinishing costs $440, with most homeowners spending $250 to $600 for a complete restoration. Most porcelain bathtubs are constructed on a base made of cast iron or steel. If a magnet doesn't stick, it's an antique solid porcelain tub that costs more to re-porcelain.
Cost to Refinish Cast Iron Tub
Cast iron tub refinishing costs $300 to $650 depending on the size and condition. Antique cast iron bathtubs need to be sandblasted to remove rust, old paint, and corrosion and need erosion and chips repaired before restoration.
Re-enameling can keep a tub in good condition for 100 years.
Miracle Method Bathtub Refinishing Cost
Miracle Method bathtub refinishing costs $500 to $650 for complete tub restoration, and $1,000 to $1,200 to resurface both the tub and shower tile. The Miracle Method can be matched to any color, lasts 10 to 15 years, and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Perma-Glaze Bathtub Refinishing Cost
Perma-glaze bathtub refinishing costs $250 to $650, or about 85% less than a full tub replacement. The Perma-Glaze restoration process takes 3 to 4 hours and is available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes such as matte, gloss, satin, or custom.
What Is Bathtub Reglazing?
Bathtub reglazing is a cosmetic update where the tub's surface is sanded down, chips and cracks are filled, and synthetic material is used to create a smooth, glossy, and durable acrylic coating.
A refinished surface is easy to clean, resistant to mold and mildew, and makes the tub look like new.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Will Refinishing Work For Your Tub?
Any tub that's not in poor condition or heavily damaged can be refinished. Resurfacing is an excellent option for antique clawfoot tubs or tubs in decent shape with only minor chips, dings, stains, scratches, or discoloration. Refinishing is a great way to improve the tub's appearance without a complete bathroom remodel.
Tub restoration is possible for a variety of materials including:
Fiberglass
Cast Iron
Porcelain
Ceramic
Acrylic
Should I Refinish or Replace My Bathtub?
Deciding to refinish or replace your bathtub depends on the tub's condition and type.
Bathtub restoration or inlays are suitable for small chips, cracks, rust, and grime.
Tubs with excessive damage should be relined or replaced.
Clawfoot and antique freestanding tubs are best refinished.
| Renovation | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Bathtub Reglazing | $200 – $600 |
| Bathtub Liner | $1,600 – $3,200 |
| Bathtub Replacement | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Bathtub Inlay
A bathtub inlay completely covers the bottom of a fiberglass, acrylic, or plastic tub or shower. Inlays permanently repair cracks, prevent leaks, and provide a new slip-resistant surface.
Inlays take 30 minutes to install and can be refinished.
Most installers offer a 5-year warranty.
Bathtub Liners
Bathtub liners cost $1,600 to $3,200 installed and are the best option if the tub is beyond repair or unable to be reglazed. Tub inserts are easily fitted over your existing bathtub without any demolition. These acrylic replica overlays let you change colors, or skirt style, or select a different silhouette.
Installers will take precise measurements and photos to build a custom liner for your new tub in one month. The liner then takes 1 to 2 days to install. In some cases, you're also able to update your bathtub and turn it into a shower.
| Pros | Cons |
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Bathtub Replacement
Bathtub replacement costs $800 to $4,600+ depending on the type of tub, demolition and removal of the old tub, and modifications required in the plumbing, tiling, and framing. Tub replacement lets you change the size, shape, and material, and completely customize the space and surrounding wall tile.
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Sink & Shower Refinishing Costs
Refinishing, reglazing, or resurfacing a sink, shower, or combo costs $200 to $1,200, depending on the size and extent of the damage.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Sink | $200 – $800 |
| Shower | $500 – $900 |
Shower Resurfacing & Reglazing Cost
Shower tile refinishing or reglazing costs $500 to $900. Resurfacing fixes cracked fiberglass surrounds, leaking shower pans or bases, cracked tiles, and moldy grout. Solid or stone-look finishes give a durable, glossy coating that's easy to clean and lasts 10 to 15 years.
A porcelain-like, acrylic resin coating is applied over the existing tile shower walls, shower pan, and grout.
Custom-fit inlays with an anti-slip surface can be installed to reinforce and fix cracked fiberglass floors.
Resurfacing a shower enclosure takes 2 to 3 days and saves up to 75% over replacement costs.
Sink Reglazing Cost
Sink reglazing costs $200 to $800, depending on if it's a pedestal sink or drop-in sink. Sink reglazing restores the original appearance, extends the lifespan, and costs about half as much as replacing the sink or vanity.
The surrounding tile or Formica can also be refinished for a vanity that looks and feels new. Reglazing a porcelain-enameled kitchen sink is possible, but the acrylic resin doesn't hold up well due to heavy use.
Reapplying real porcelain enamel requires the sink to be baked in a kiln.
Bathtub Repair Costs
Bathtub repair costs $100 to $300 on average for minor surface issues such as fixing chips and cracks, caulking and resealing to prevent leaks, and plumbing problems. Repairing major surface damage costs $200 to $1,200 for refinishing the tub enamel or repainting the tub a new color.
| Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Caulk & Reseal | $50 – $200 |
| Chips & Cracks | $195 – $300 |
| Leaking Pipes | $150 – $850 |
| Refinish or Repaint | $200 – $1,200 |
| Replace Tub Liner | $1,600 – $3,000 |
Tub Painting Cost
Bathtub refinishing is a better solution than tub painting and costs $200 to $1,200. Painting a discolored tub is an outdated restoration method as paint can easily chip and peel. Refinishing gives your tub a glossy, durable coating in any color you would like.
Cost To Change Color of Bathtub
Changing the color of a bathtub requires reglazing, which costs $325 to $550. Fiberglass, steel, or cast-iron tubs can be refinished to an entirely new color or recoated to match the existing color. Colors such as avocado green, blossom pink, and harvest gold are coming back into style.
Cost To Caulk & Reseal Bathtub
Caulking and resealing a bathtub costs $50 to $200 depending on the number of beads, the size of the leak, the caulk type, and if mold needs to be treated. Pricing includes the materials and labor to thoroughly remove the old caulk and apply the new caulk.
Bathtub Chip Repair Cost
Bathtub chip repair costs $195 to $300 for the first three chips a quarter size or smaller, and $25 per chip after that. Matching a custom tub color costs an additional $25. Consider a full reglazing if your bathtub has extensive damage beyond small chips, scuffs, and scratches.
Repairing a tub involves filling chips and cracks with waterproof polyester resin, applying an acrylic coating with an airbrush, and then sanding the area. Matching the color and blending the coating to make the repair invisible takes skill and years of experience.
DIY Bathtub Refinishing
Although you can re-enamel a tub yourself, it’s best to leave it to trained professionals. The renovation process is complex, needs special equipment, and requires working with hazardous chemicals.
Bathtub Refinishing Kit
Bathtub refinishing kits cost $30 to $200 and include cleaner, sandpaper, primer, and refinishing paint. Cheaper kits are epoxy-based, while the best use a durable resin coating.
Kits provide a less durable finish, are not as adhesive as professional reglazing, and may only last two years.
How To Reglaze A Bathtub
Protect yourself – Wear coveralls and gloves, and avoid coming into contact with the refinishing paint. Refinishing fumes are dangerous and require adequate ventilation with an organic vapor respirator.
Prepare the area – Preparation is the most important part of reglazing a bathtub. The surface must be clean thoroughly and free from oils and soap scum. Any chips must be filled with putty and sanded completely smooth.
Improper preparation will result in the coating bubbling and peeling soon after the application.
Steps To Refinish A Bathtub
Ventilate the bathroom using an exhaust fan that vents the toxic fumes outside. Wear protective gear, including goggles, gloves, and a respirator, to avoid the toxic chemicals.
Cover the floor, fixtures, and surrounding area with heavy-duty plastic.
Prepare the tub surface by using a cleaning solution and 240-grit sandpaper to thoroughly remove all oils, soap scum, grease, and the old finish.
Clean and rinse the tub. Then, use a second solution along with scouring pads to rough the surface—to allow the coating to adhere better. Clean the tub thoroughly and dry it with paper towels.
Remove traces of cleaning solution with a primer reducer and paper towels.
Use two-part filler putty and a putty knife to fill damaged areas such as chips or scratches. Let the putty dry for 30 minutes, then sand it smooth with a fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust with a primer reducer and paper towels.
Mask off the exterior of the tub with painter’s tape and apply the chemical adhesion.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the base coat elements (primer, catalyst, and reducer) in the sprayer. Connect the sprayer to the compressor.
Apply the finish with a sprayer. It's vital to be wearing a respirator. You can practice using the sprayer on a piece of cardboard.
While waiting for the base coat to dry (about 30 minutes), mix the top coat.
Apply the top coat with the sprayer. Wait 48 hours for the top coat to dry.
Then, use ultra-fine 1,500-grit sandpaper to buff away any rough places.
Although the products found in a DIY bathtub refinishing kit are not the same as those used by professionals, they are still dangerous. In particular, methylene chloride is considered highly dangerous.
Contact your city or county’s hazardous waste management agency for hazardous material disposal guidelines.
Bathtub Reglazing Problems
Incorrect application will ultimately cause damage, resulting in a shorter coating lifespan and a bad appearance. Several bathtub reglazing problems may occur when the coating thickness is applied insufficiently or excessively such as:
Runs and Sags
Wrinkling
Incorrect Curing
Peeling
Cracking and Delamination
Longer Dry Time
Improper Curing
Visibility of Substrate
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Reglazes Bathtubs?
Professional renovation contractors with specialized training provide bathtub refinishing and reglazing services. Some contractors are part of national franchises, such as Miracle Method or Perma Glaze, that use proprietary products, processes, and training.
DIY tub reglazing is not recommended due to the dangerous fumes during the application and curing process.
Is Bathtub Refinishing Worth It?
Bathtub refinishing is worth it if your tub is in good shape and only has surface damage such as chips, scratches, and discoloration. Bathtub refinishing costs 75% less than replacing a tub and gives it a like-new look. Reglazing only takes a few hours and lasts 10 to 15 years with proper care.
Does Bathtub Refinishing Really Work?
Refinishing an old bathtub makes it look like new, costs 75% less than a tub replacement, and extends the tub's life for ten years or more. Reglazing gives your tub a smooth, glossy, durable finish in any color you choose. Hire a professional as bathtub refinishing is not a DIY project.
How Long Does Bathtub Reglazing Last?
Bathtub reglazing lasts 10 to 15 years depending on the materials used, if a professional applied the finish, and how well the tub is cleaned and maintained. A reglazed bathtub looks like new when properly finished, and contractors typically offer a 3- to 10-year warranty.
To extend the life of a refinished tub:
Avoid using abrasive cleaners, bleach, and steel wool, which cause scratches, discoloration, and damage to the coating.
Avoid storing shampoo bottles or other products on the surface of the tub.
Do not use a mat with suction cups on the bottom of the tub. Ask your contractor for a slip-resistant coating when reglazing your tub.
Avoid reglazing the tub yourself as DIY kits may only last two years.
Refinish Clawfoot Tub Cost
The average cost to refinish a clawfoot tub is $300 to $650, depending on the size and condition. Clawfoot tub issues such as erosion, rust, pinholes, scarring, lead paint, or chips need to be addressed before reglazing.
Refinishing takes 4 to 5 hours and typically comes with a 3 to 10-year warranty.
How Long Does It Take To Refinish A Bathtub?
Refinishing a standard-size bathtub takes 2 to 5 hours if it's in decent condition. The tub will be dry and ready to use within 48 hours. Some refinishing contractors return the following day to buff and polish the entire bathtub—to remove any debris that fell into the coating while drying.
How Long To Wait After Reglazing Bathtub?
Wait at least 48 hours for coatings to dry after reglazing a bathtub. The full bathtub refinishing curing time takes up to 7 days. Drying time depends on the quality of materials used, the temperature, and if the products we're mixed correctly.
Are Bathtub Refinishing Fumes Dangerous?
Bathtub refinishing fumes are dangerous during the application and curing process and should not be inhaled or absorbed by your skin. Dust masks do not protect you from highly toxic bathtub refinishing vapors. Adequate ventilation and an organic vapor respirator are required. If you smell fumes, leave the area immediately.
Highly toxic acids are used to etch the tub, which can damage the plumbing pipes if they are washed down the drain without proper dilution. Many professionals now use chemical bonding agents as a green alternative to acid etching.
How To Clean A Refinished Bathtub?
Follow these guidelines when cleaning a refinished bathtub:
Use non-abrasive mild cleaners with a sponge or damp cloth to prevent scratches.
Rinse thoroughly, and never allow chemicals to remain on the surface for longer than 5 minutes.
Avoid using cleaners that contain harsh acids or bleach.
Wait 24 hours before cleaning refinished surfaces.
Can You Refinish A Bathtub More Than Once?
Yes, you can refinish a bathtub more than once. However, the second recoating and respraying have a shorter lifespan than the first, typically lasting 3 to 5 years. A previously refinished tub provides a poor surface for a new coat of finish to adhere.
What Is Used To Reglaze A Bathtub?
Urethanes, epoxies, polymers, or hybrid polyester-polyurethanes are used for reglazing a bathtub. This new finish can be sprayed, rolled, or brushed on to turn a damaged tub into a like-new condition.
Bathtub Refinishing Preparation
Before the technician arrives to refinish your tub, be sure to:
Remove all soaps, shampoos, and other items from the tub.
Remove all shower curtains, rods, bath mats, and shower caddies.
Repair any leaking faucets, loose tiles, and grout ahead of time.
The tub must have a working water source and drain.
Bathtub Refinishing Process
Different service providers have their own methods for refinishing a bathtub. This is the basic process:
The tub is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, soap scum, and grease.
Pros either sand or use a process called acid etching to prepare the surface, so the urethane coating adheres better. Acid etching is done with hydrofluoric acid, which is a highly corrosive and dangerous poison.
If it has been previously refinished, the old product will be stripped.
Chips and deep scratches will be repaired.
A primer/bonding agent will be sprayed on in two or three layers.
The synthetic polyurethane or epoxy coating is applied in two or three passes.
A top coat will be applied.
The tub will be buffed and cleaned with a tack cloth to remove dust and residue.
Once the process is complete, the time to dry is usually about 48 hours before the tub can be used again.
Hiring a Professional Bathtub Refinisher
Hiring a professional bathtub refinishing company is safer and ensures a consistent, high-quality finish that lasts 10 to 15+ years.
Before hiring a tub refinisher, be sure to:
Get at least three quotes to compare.
Look for pros experienced in bathtub refinishing.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for 5+ years.
Ask for references.
Avoid selecting the company with the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Never pay in full before the project starts. Use a payment plan instead for work completed.
Questions to ask
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide references with contact information?
What training do the technicians receive?
What products does the company use?
Are you able to match the existing color of my tub?
How many jobs per day does the technician do?
How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?
Does the service include chip repair and removing the drain? If not, how much are the repairs?
Is grout and caulk removal and reapplication included?
How should I prepare the bathroom before the technician arrives?