Our bathtub is no longer getting clean when I scrub it. There are chips in the finish and rusty areas. Replacing it is out of the question for financial and design reasons. (There is beautiful matching ceramic tile surrounding the entire tub, even the ceiling!) It is about 20 years old, an American Standard brand in light blue.
Any recommendations about tub refinishing? I would prefer to have this professionally done, but have no idea about cost or durability. Thanks to all.
Askliz from Michigan
I had my tub refinished three years ago. It cost about $350. It's lasted well. There are a couple chips in the surface where a shave cream can dropped on it. Although it's chipped, the surface hasn't discolored around that area. The only area that doesn't clean up well is around the drain. It was recommended that I use only dish detergent to clean it. That isn't strong enough to get all the soap scum. I used a scrubbing bubbles detergent yesterday and it got cleaner and didn't hurt the finish. I'd recommend having it done. (04/24/2006)
Home Depot and Lowe's both sell a home kit to refinish your tub. If you are real DIY'ers, you could try it. The cost is around $30.00. (04/24/2006)
By Memere
I would look under "bathrooms" in the yellow page phone book. In my local phone book there are several listings for bath tub reglazing, bathtub repair, and bath refinishing. (04/25/2006)
By Dean
How about doing it yourself? I rent the first floor of a 2 family, and about 10 years ago the LL asked me if I could paint the upstairs bathtub as it was a mess. I sanded any rough spots and got a bathtub painting kit in Home Depot for about 15.00. I have to say I did a great job. It looked like a brand new shiny tub. This was the first time (and last) that I ever did anything like this. It lasted nicely for a few years but for the cost, I think it is worth considering. Good luck! (04/25/2006)
By Tone
Refinished bathtubs are delicate. Do not use an abrasive cleanser! (04/25/2006)
By Holly
I've heard from at least 5 remodeling contractors and real estate agents that re-glazing tubs is NOT the way to go for durability reasons. The quotes I received for tub re-glazing ranged between $175 and $300. Apparently only two contractors would guarantee their work, and only for 1 year. I was told to consider looking at tub and shower liners instead. Good luck! (04/26/2006)
By Ann
The best company is called Duralux Bath and they use Kott Koatings. They have won several awards for their work. They don't use urethane or cancer-causing chemicals, but a porcelain finish instead. (03/10/2008)
By woody
I used to re-glaze tubs and I stood behind my work for 5 years. There are companies that still do that. I wouldn't put a liner in, because over time, water gets between the liner and the original tub. As you might imagine that would not be something that is desired. (04/19/2008)
By Eric
Refinishing your tub can be done successfully if done properly. Make sure that any re finisher you hire follows these basic steps:
1). Acid etches before primer
2). At least two light coats of epoxy adhesive primer
3). At least two - three coats of polyurethane.
They should be able to give you a minimum 5 year warranty. The process if done properly should take a better part of a day and will cost between $300-$500 depending on if it has ever been re glazed before or not, and how much repair needs to be done if any. (08/11/2008)
By George Picot
Add your voice! Click below to comment. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
