Bathtub and tile refinishing is the best alternative to bathtub and tiles replacement or even tub liner installation during your bathroom update. A bathroom update is always a big consideration for most homeowners in the spring.  This spring is no exception. Spring bathroom update is especially on the minds of those that own an older home.

If you own an older home, there is every chance that you have at least a bathroom that has a bathtub or tiles that have an outdated color. On the other hand, it could be that the tub or tile is chipped, stained, rusted and very hard to clean. 

Facing such a situation in a tight economy what would you do?  Do you have the money to accomplish your bathroom renovation on a budget? Here are the options you have and how you can have an updated bathroom on a budget this spring.

Bathtub and tile refinishing in bathroom update

Bathtub and tile refinishing is the best alternative to bath tub replacement or even tub liner installation during your bathroom renovation. The multistep process takes several hours. In fact, a bathtub can be refinished in 4-6 hours.

Cleaning and preparation of the surfaces to be re-glazed is key, because the new coating will only magnify any defects such as dust or dings. We use a two part acrylic urethane that retains color well and comes with a five year warranty. Because a bath mat can harm the surface of the refinished tub, we recommend adding a nonslip on the bottom.

A bathtub can be refinished for $450 - $650. It is much cheaper than tub replacement. It is done in a few hours with no dusty mess from demolition. Additionally, you can choose your colors that meet your fancy.

Bathtub and tile replacement

Bathtub and tile replacement require demolition. Demolition creates a lot dust and mess, and with tear out, bathroom renovation may take many weeks to complete. Importantly, it can cost thousands of dollars to replace bathtub and tiles.

While it’s true that you can buy a standard new bathtub $200 -$600, other models can also cost between $800 -$3,000 or more, depending on size and features such as water jets.
Buying a new tub is perhaps the easy part.

It can be necessary to move and/or replace the plumbing pipes to fit the new tub; repair carpentry, drywall and tile; and cut a hole in a wall to get the old tub out and the new one in.

When all is said and done, the total cost for removing the old tub and installing a new one can run $1,500 -$5,000 or more but averages $2,500 -$3,500. These prices depend on the ease of access, local rates, the quality of the new fixtures, and the extent of the repairs/replacements for the walls, plumbing and flooring.

Tile replacement involves demolition too, and you never know what is behind those walls in older homes when you start tearing out those walls.

Bathtub Liners – How about them?

While it is true that choosing a bathtub liner over bathtub replacement will save you money, bathtub liners are still more expensive than bathtub refinishing. The average price for a bathtub liner is $1600.00. Bathtub liners installation can take 3 to weeks.

Here is the reason: The sales man comes to your home to make the sale and another person comes and measures the tub. The measurements are sent to an out of town factory where you liner is molded to your tub specification.

Cost and time are not the only considerations when you think of using tub liners in your bathroom update. Remember that the liners are glued down. Running hot and cold water cause expansion and contraction. 

With time cracking start to occur, and water accumulates. The unpleasant result is odors, mold and mildew. Another consideration is that bathtub liners come in limited colors and cannot be used on your tiles.

Your Spring Bathroom Update – What would you do now?

If you are seriously considering a spring bathroom update, fill out our bathtub refinishing estimate form. On the other hand, you may call our office that is closest to you.