Having a bathroom full of grime, rust, and cracks can make you cringe every time you think of taking a shower. Usually, such bathroom degeneration doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process. Unfortunately, most people ignore the first signs that may indicate that your bathroom needs remodeling or a bathtub reglazing. It seems easier to just ignore the little cracks and rust that slowly builds up, hoping that they’ll somewhere disappear on their own. Regardless of the scope of the problem your bathroom is experiencing, there’s always a solution for it. Whether it’s a minor rusted spot or a significant mess of any kind, you can always call professional bathroom reglazing professionals to take care of the problem. Bathtub replacement is also an option. Depending on your preferences and your budget, either option can resolve your bathroom issues.
What is Bathtub Reglazing?
Bathtub reglazing seems to be a quick fix to having bathtub issues. It goes by several names like refinishing, recoating, or resurfacing. This process is considered more a cosmetic one because it usually fixes the bathtub’s appearance rather than any serious structural defects. The contractor starts by sanding down the bathtub surface to achieve uniformity. The cracked and damaged areas are then filled up before a primer and paint are applied. Several layers of the primer and paint are usually needed to ensure that the refinishing process lasts. Finally, a bathtub buffing is performed. This involves polishing the tub’s surface to achieve the shine and uniformity needed. Usually, baking soda can be used if the scratches and cracks that were filled up are small. Porcelain or fiberglass polishers can also do the trick.
Depending on how deep the cracks were, you may need to do this from time to time. Bathtub refinishing is akin to having nail polish on nails; while it may look great at the beginning, it will gradually wear off as you use the bathtub often. It will need some touch-up eventually.
Will Bathtub Refinishing Work for You?
This depends on the kind of bathtub you have. For example, cast-iron and fiberglass bathtubs give better results with reglazing. The degree of scratches on the tub will also determine whether or not resurfacing will produce satisfactory results. Minor scratches can easily be covered up with reglazing. However, major issues like large, indelible stains may not respond well to reglazing. Reglazing is a quick and affordable option. For between $250 and $650, you can get your bathtub resurfaced quickly.
A major disadvantage with reglazing is that many of the chemicals used, including baking soda, are toxic and therefore need to be handled carefully. Also, refinishing tends to be a one-time process. This means that if it’s performed poorly the first time, you may need to replace your bathtub. Humidity is also something to always be mindful of when performing bathtub refinishing. It’s best to do it during cooler weather.
Bathtub Replacement
Sometimes, this is the only option for you. You may want a fresh start or the filth in your bathroom may render it beyond the remedy of any other procedures like refinishing. Of course, a bathtub replacement is a more time-consuming and expensive process. You’ll need to hire bathroom contractors to take care of this issue. It will involve gutting your bathroom to remove the old tub and replace it.
A bathtub replacement will involve additional work. The gutting of the bathroom surfaces naturally means they’ll need to be replaced. These include the surrounding tiles, the floor surface, and possibly the shower valves. This is usually an expensive project that should only be considered when the budget is available. All the work done can quickly increase that cost.
The advantage of a bathroom replacement is that you get a sparkling bathtub that gives your bathroom a whole new lease on life. The obvious drawback is the cost. Expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $3000 for a bathroom replacement. Of course, it may take at least a week to complete the replacement, meaning you’ll have to find an alternative bathroom.
Bathtub Replacement or Refinishing?
Obviously, each option has its pros and cons. The option that works best for you will depend on your specific situation. For example, if your bathtub surface is not badly damaged, a bathtub refinishing procedure should be enough to get your bathtub looking new in no time. However, if the damage is extensive, bathtub replacement may be the best option. Of course, costs should always be at the back of your mind.
In the end, it helps to think of both processes as different types of surgeries. Bathtub refinishing is akin to stitching up minor lacerations while a bathtub replacement is like open-heart surgery. One is a short-term fix while the other is a radical measure.
