Have you ever looked at your bathtub and realized that it’s not looking as fresh as it used to be? Through a period, tubs fade, tarnish, and peel off. Reglazing is more affordable than having to replace the whole tub structure which may be quite expensive to install. Bathtub reglazing or bathtub refinishing is the process, which involves applying a new surface of the bathtub, increasing the appearance of the bathtub as a newly purchased one but at cheaper prices. But how much does it cost? Let’s analyze all the factors and describe the process of bathtub reglazing in detail including its cost.
Why Consider Bathtub Reglazing?
Cost vs. Replacement
Are you wondering why not replace the bathtub as a whole? Well replacement usually means where the tub is removed, the surrounding tiles, the plumbing system and sometimes floor parts have to be demolished as well. That adds up fast. Reglazing costs are a thousand times less than that, making it easy for homeowners who want a new outlook without spending their fortune.
Factors Affecting Bathtub Reglazing Costs
- Type of Bathtub
The tub material is a key factor when it comes to reglazing and the decision will dictate how much you are willing to spend. Porcelain, acrylic, and fiberglass tubs are not prepared in the same way and some of the materials may need some coating.
- Condition of the Bathtub
The degree of preparation is proportional to the amount of damage the material has been through; the more, the better. Small imperfections can be easily repaired, nevertheless, if your tub has deep cracks or heavily stained areas, then you are likely to spend more since the contractor will take more time to do a perfect job.
- Geographical Location
For the same reason as in any other home improvement project, the cost of bathtub reglazing depends on your geographic location. Areas that have relatively high cost of living also tend to have higher contractor rates than areas with lower rates of urbanization.
- Contractor Experience
Hiring an experienced contractor will cost more money. Yet, they can guarantee a smoother finish and longer durability of the undertakings accomplished. On the other hand, selecting the cheaper service provider means getting services that will need more touch-ups or even be redone altogether.
Average Bathtub Reglazing Costs
- National Average Cost
The bathtub reglazing averages for the whole nation range from $300 to $600. The average price paid by homeowners amounts to $450 for a normal-sized bathtub that is in good condition.
- Local Price Variations
Reglazing costs depend greatly on where you live. Information targets show that prices in large cities can reach $ 700 or more, while the minimum price is $ 200 and corresponds to treatment in small towns.
Bathtub Materials and How They Impact Cost
- Porcelain Bathtubs
Porcelain is a strong material and is one of the costliest to reglaze due to the necessary preparation of the surface for proper bonding.
- Acrylic Bathtubs
Reglazing acrylic tubs are relatively less costly as compared to the reglazing of other tub materials. However, considerable attention must be paid to these tubs to prevent distortion due to heat applied during the process.
- Fiberglass Bathtubs
Fiberglass being lightweight and unbreakable may crack more often meaning extra work might become necessary before the reglazing is to be done hence it can be a little pricier in the long run.
Hidden Costs to Consider
- Repairing Damage Before Reglazing
If your bathtub has massive chips, cracks, or rust issues, the cost may need to go higher. These costs can be as low as $50 and go up to $ 150 depending on the level of damage.
- Ventilation and Safety Equipment
Recoating uses chemicals that may be damaging if inhaled when doing the reglazing process. Some of the contractors may pay extra charges for proper installation of adequate ventilation, and many of the homes are found to lack the same, especially the old ones.
Cost Breakdown
- Labor Costs
Labor can often make up the larger part of your expenses. The labor cost will range between one hundred dollars and three hundred dollars on average depending on the contractor’s experience level.
- Materials and Supplies
Reglazing work materials and supplies are in the categories of primers, bonding agents, top coats, and protective personal equipment. These can be anywhere from $50 to $150 and the higher-end products are usually more expensive.
Bathtub reglazing is cheaper than most other methods of doing a bath makeover without spending much money. Once you understand these concepts and how they move the cost needle, it is easier to decide whether to reglaze or replace your bathtub. Almost always, when a bathtub is professionally reglazed, it’ll look as good as new while having a significantly smaller hole in your pocket. As long as you acquire a few estimates, evaluate the condition of your tub, and measure the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a contractor to reglaze versus doing it yourself, you should be just fine.