As said before, bathtub reglazing is just one of many ways of renovating your old bathtub. Roth. Most reglazing jobs require the home's. Well also talk about the problems (not the cons) associated with bathtub reglazing and the costs too. If your bathtub has severe scaling, cracking, abrasions on the surface, or other deep dents or holes, reglazing wont be enough to bring the tub back to life. So, before you appoint a refinisher for reglazing, make sure he has prior experience in this line. It is done by polishing the surface until it is shiny and new again. This bathtub renovation option goes by many names resurfacing, recoating, refinishing or reglazing but has a pretty straightforward process. Otherwise, the chipping can further damage the rest of the reglazed areas. Dont expect to reglaze your bathtub yearly, as that is not possible. The first drawback of reglazing a bathtub is that you likely can only reglaze once. Hi there! Cast-iron, steel, and fiberglass tubs and shower stalls can all be re-coated to match the original finish or in an entirely new color. If your bathroom is long overdue for a makeover, what better way to change the entire aesthetic of the bathroom than changing the centerpiece of the room? Thats perhaps the number one reason trying to DIY it is not advisable (kits are available, but just leave it to the professionals). As long as you take the proper safety precautions on the back of the box, you should be fine though. Essential Bathtub Reglazing Safety Tips to Preserve Your Health Reglazing a tub requires several stages, although the process can vary depending on the materials used. Likely can only reglaze once (tub can be severely damaged) Quick turn-around time. Learn More. Lay down a drop cloth and tape off the area around the tub as well as any remaining hardware. White advises keeping away fromcleansers likebleach oreven Soft Scrub. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Refinishing a tub consists of applying a new chemical coating with a special brush or roller to an acrylic, porcelain, fiberglass, or cultured marble bathtub without removing the old layer first. Workers often spray or pour a bathtub stripping product into the basin of the bathtub and then brush the product onto the tub surface. When we refinished the tub at our rental, it took us a few hours to clean, sand, prime, and paint just the tub itself (we didnt paint the surround). Reglazing is just painting. It takes a few hours to reglaze your bathtub and up to 1-2 days for everything to cure. Vapors from this liquid can collect in the bottom of the tub and cause the person refinishing the tub to asphyxiate or even suffer from a heart attack because methyl chloride turns to carbon monoxide in the body, cutting off oxygen supply. The weather can play a factor in how long it takes for the finishing coat to dry, and how well it bonds to the surface. Nothing annoys like brownish or greenish stuff on the tub. A cheap bathtub will cost at least $150 brand new (and that doesnt even include the surround). Now, if you are planning to retain the lost glaze of your bathtub, there are several bathtub renovation techniques to do it. New York finally gets a budget, but it doesn't include major housing initiatives. Potential costs include removal of the existing tub, repairing the surface, new pipe fittings, plumbing work, and . By comparison, the average household spends about $3,500 on new bathtubs without considering extra costs, such as removing the old structure, making a foundation for the new bathtub, and installing it. After it is cured, it is safe to bathe in the reglazed tub. The substances pros use to reglaze a tub can be a bit dangerous. Marcus Reeves is an experienced writer, publisher, and fact-checker. A professional refinish will usually last longer than a DIY reglazing. However, as long as you properly clean and sand the tub, you shouldnt have any issues with using the tub refinishing kit. Whatever you decide to do, do it fast. There's no consensus on whether or not to use vinegar to clean a refinished tub. Neither the tub itself nor the coating applied on them can withstand heavy pressure exerted on them. Apply additional coats as needed, waiting for sufficient drying time between coats. No more ugly yellow, pink, blue, or green bathtubs in your future! From your end, make sure you give the coating enough time to cure and dont use an abrasive cleaner on the reglazed surface. And when doing the reglazing, wear protective gear such as a gas mask and gloves to protect yourself from the toxic ingredients. On average, a bathtub liner can cost anywhere between $1,500-4,000. That is why its advisable to hire a reglazing professional. Mimi OConnor has written about New York City real estate for publications that include Brick Underground, Refinery29, and Thrillist. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. But picking one medicine cabinet among so many options in the market can be overwhelming. With something heavy enough, it can even happen on a cured reglazed bathtub. There might also be flooring, trim, surrounds, and plumbing that will need to be removed and replaced. The solution to this problem is properly sanding the tub and cleaning it before applying the coating. If the tub has a non-slip surface, you can scrub this area with a soft, nylon-bristle brush. If you just bought a Mercedes, would you put a rubber mat on the roof? White asks. The whole bathtub reglazing process involves some pretty hard chemicals. Here are the drawbacks to reglazing a bathtub. Manage Settings Perhaps you wish to own a specific bathtub style or size but cannot afford it. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If youve been considering a bathroom remodel, then replacing an older tub might just make sense. Plus, it allows you to preserve an older design, such as an antique clawfoot tub, that adds character to a bathroom but has seen better days. If you wait until the tub is visibly dark and dirty, it's difficult to use these gentle methods. Lysol Tub and Tile lysol tub and tile cleaner is ok for your refinished surface. Reglazing a tub doesnt actually take that long to do. Power washing old or original tile in a tub and shower can be done but it's not common and you should never attempt it on a reglazed surface. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Definitely not, as a new bathtubs finish will last longer. ), How To Decide Whether To Install Gutter Guards Or Not (Pros & Cons List! Note that humidity affects both dry time and how well the topcoat bonds to the surface, so the cool, less-humid seasons of fall or spring providethe best conditions for this type of work. Reglazing a bathtub is a good idea for anyone who wants to change or freshen up the color or add an extra protective layer to an old tub. The original tub almost always needs to be cut into pieces to fit through the bathroom door. Waiting too long to clean soap scum means that you may need to resort to cleaning methods that might damage your tub. theyre dangerous if not dealt with properly. Changing up your tub is a great way to give your bathroom a makeover on a budget, Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles. While hiring a professional crew is well within your rights, this is a relatively easy process to complete on your own. The prep is the most important part of the job, says White. Its worth looking into how long a company has been in business andits rating with the Better Business Bureau to get a sense of their track record before commissioning a job. The second benefit of reglazing a bathtub is how quickly you can complete it. And when doing the reglazing, wear protective gear such as a gas mask and gloves to protect yourself from the toxic ingredients. The small and intricate repairs, sanding, priming, and painting can all be accomplished in a single day. Would you take a bath in your tub? Also, if the tubs surface is not sanded properly, that can be another potential reason. Bathtubs should be refinished every seven to 10 years, or more frequently if there is significant damage, stained, or you (or your homes previous owners) havent been cleaning your bathtub the right way. To avoid problems and maintain the coating, refrain from adding a bath mat or appliques with suction cups to your tub's surface. After ensuring you have proper ventilation, follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the paint. Closing Remarks On Reglazing a Bathtub Pros and Cons: What is Chalk Spray Paint? However, there are some bathtub reglazing problems too, that you should be aware of. ), Read more about me and my past home renovation projects here. Humidity is harmful to the process, so its best to avoid tub refinishings during the dog days of summers. The reglazed tub will be dry to the touch in 1 hour, can be recoated in 1-2 hours, and can be used after 3 days. Cooler, less-humid weather typical of fall or spring provides the ideal conditions, DiClerico said. If you must bathe your pet in a reglazed bathtub, you should put down a towel on the tub's bottom so there is no damage from claws. Thoroughly rinse the tub, leaving no traces of cleaner. Finally, a primer, multiple layers of coating, and a sealant are applied. Big Lots said Thursday that it's "assisting shoppers . Solution: Reapplying the finish with a blending solvent is the most common way to hide the chipping. Open all bathroom windows and doors and turn on the vent fan to help air out the room. "My glazing lasted three weeks before it began to peel from a tiny spot in the center of the tub," she says. Sometimes, your bathtub is just too far gone, and you need to replace it entirely. Also, if the coating is mixed incorrectly or applied in a thin layer, it tends to wear off after some time. (All You Need To Know), Use gentle liquid soaps avoid abrasive options like bleach and ammonia-based cleaners, Dont use power sprays as they can damage the tub and void its warranty, Scrub with non-abrasive material like microfiber towels or sponges. Kohler is a very well-known brand in the world of luxurious bath and kitchen collections. In fact, professionals install the liner on top of the existing bathtub, then permanently adhere it using a combination of two-sided tape and silicone acrylic. So, without wasting any time, lets dive in. First, the technician strips off the old finish and sands the tub to create a smooth surface. But if it starts to feel uncomfortable to bathe in, it should be considered a problem. Youll then need to apply a primer or undercoat to improve the topcoats durability. Now you know the pros and cons of reglazing your bathtub. Any other surfaces in the vicinity of the tub should be covered in protective paper and drop cloths, and you should wait a day or two to remove everything and use your bathroom and tub. But like I mentioned, its not a good idea to reglaze the bathroom repetitively. (Fun fact: You can make it any color you want, so if youve ever wanted a purple bathtub, that dream can be realized.). Reasons To Have Stress Cracks In Fiberglass Bathtubs. Bathtub reglazing problems are often due to poor installation and result in flaking, peeling, or bubbled coating. You can also update your tub to a shower in some cases. Restores the original look of a tub. Not giving enough time to cure is the most obvious reason for this stickiness. But, on the other hand, youll only need a fraction of the replacement cost to reglaze the bathtub. Fortunately, reglazing helps you eliminate them, leaving your tub looking spotless. Exposure to methylene chloride can be lethal. GameStop is safe for now, thanks to its strong balance sheet. Brooklyn resident Emily Gilbert had her familys tub and part of the bathroom wall reglazed four-and-a-half years ago (, Moving to NYC after college? Are you wondering if it is safe to bathe in a reglazed tub? That means the bathroom remains available for you. That will help this tub last for several more years longer now AND it looks and feels brand new! This is a common solution for homes that were built in the last few decades, since the design and configuration of the bathtub will likely lend itself to relining unlike an older, historic home with a freestanding tub that cant be relined, DiClerico said. If you decide to replace the tub, it can put your bathroom out of commission for days with a messed-up plumbing system. White uses a portable fume exhauster, and HVLP, or high-volume, low-pressure sprayers, which produce less overspray. For example, if you have a beautiful clawfoot tub made from heavy cast iron, refinishing is absolutely the way to go. How to break the lease for your NYC apartment, What does 'net effective rent' mean? And these were trained professionals in most cases! Tub liner options can be limited in assortment, and wont totally change the look of your original tub. A bathtub replacement can cost around $2,900 on average and may add value to your property. Besides bathtubs we offer a variety of refinishing services for almost any surface in your bath or kitchen including tile, sinks, counter tops and vanities. Therefore, after reglazing is done, a sealer is applied on the surface so that the layers underneath stay intact. You suggestions and opinions are always wecome. The first step of reglazing involves sanding the whole bathtub to get rid of chips and scratches. I say most because it all depends on the severity of damage to your bathtub. So, yes, bathtub reglazing is worth it. If there are difficult stains, you are safe to use a nylon brush with soft bristles. Installation typically takes only a day or two, but the whole process can take between one and two months since installers first need to take photos and precise measurements of the area before molding a liner out of acrylic. Once youre done repairing blemishes, refilling and sanding down cracks, and scraping off excess cosmetic defects, you can clean and prime the tub. With proper care and cleaning, your bathtub's new finish can last this long or longer. On the other hand, if you choose to hire a tub reglazing professional, the project will cost you $250-$800, depending on the severity of the tub damage. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. I am Clyde Mitchell and I actually write and run the site. You can refinish a tub yourself if youre a true DIY-er, but the new finish can look painted or different than the original color or texture. We do not tread lightly, so I think we are a good example to work off of in terms of durability., Of the overall aesthetic, particularly the walls, she says: If you look closely, it's a little weird as you see the indent of the grout lines, but it's all one texture. When we came back the next day, the fumes had pretty much disappeared. HomeAdvisors True Cost Guide puts the average cost to refinish a bathtub at about $450, while installing a new one runs about $3,000. Professionally glazed tubs will cost between $250 and $700 depending on the level of repair the tub needs. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Even if you go for the cheapest options on the market, itll cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. That saves you from doing all the work that comes with bathtub reglazing. Having your bathtub professionally refinished will cost around $460 (the national average), but you can expect to pay between $200 to $900 depending on the type of tub you have and the cost of labor in your location. In addition to our rental bathtub being an ugly color, it had a few tiny knicks in it that we were able to reseal with the refinishing kit. Poor preparation is responsible for that as it didnt remove the chip in the first place. Though it could be tempting at times, steer clear from cleaning your new glossy finish with the following techniques. Solution: If the reglaze feels sticky, the first thing to do is not panic. It's a common question, and the answer is yes, it's safe to bathe in a reglazed tub. But before you can change its color, you should check for cracks, dents, and other imperfections and sand them first. Overall, the total expenses may rack up to more than $5,000. No, not really. If you have the time and money to commit to a larger project like a total bathtub replacement, it makes sense to do so. His book Somebody Scream: Rap Music's Rise to Prominence in the Aftershock of Black Power was nominated for a Zora Neale Hurston Award. Her writing on New York City, parenting, events, and culture has also appeared in Parents, Red Tricycle, BizBash, and Time Out New York. But from a cost perspective, its more cost-effective reglazing a bathtub than getting a new one. No matter how carefully you use your bathtub, it loses its glaze over time. Here's how to calculate your real monthly rent, How to read a NYC co-op or condo buildings financial statement. Likely the most expensive bathtub renovation option, a new bathtub can cost anywhere between $300-3,000 - plus labor. Racism and the lack of diversity in the appraisal business, Making sense of the NYC real estate market with Jonathan Miller, The Brick Underground Podcast: Predators in the NYC rental market, with Hannah Levintova from Mother Jones, The Brick Underground Podcast: Protecting against fire and floods in your NYC apartment, The Brick Underground Podcast: Finding a deal as NYC landlords pull concessions and raise rents, The Brick Underground Podcast: Trading your NYC apartment for a cheap(er) vacation. A tub that's chipped, scratched, rusty, or worn can make your bathroom look dated and unattractive. Cons of Refinishing a Tub. A 'maddening' Brooklyn market: Slower sales dont put a dent in prices, There's a semi-secret list of NYC co-op and condo buildings that are off limits to certain mortgage lenders, A newcomer from Georgia, life on City Island, & more, Leaving the Bay Area for Brooklyn, buying on City Island, & more, NYC foreclosures hit highest level in nearly three years but remain below pre-pandemic numbers, Have your eye on a NYC fixer-upper? While a new tub can cost as little as $150, labor expenses for the replacement process can easily add $1,500 or more to the bill. Reglazing involves stripping off the previous coating and sanding down the tub. Then buff the finish to a like-new shine. Its a multi-step process that involves cleaning the tub thoroughly and sanding it to remove any soap scum or other particles, and repairing cracks or worn areasall of these imperfections will affect the quality and durability of the final finishing coat. What Is the Difference Between Reglazing and Refinishing A Bathtub? The fumes that emanate from the tub during the reglazing procedure are dangerous. (And believe me, the fumes punch you in the nose.). Abrasives include harsh or gritty cleaners as well as rough sponges, like Scotch-Brite pads, steel wool soap pads, or sponges with an abrasive layer on one side. Get daily tips & tricks to help make your best home, Avoid These Cleaning Methods for Reglazed Tubs, Tips for Maintaining a Reglazed or Refinished Bathtub, DIY Refinishing a Bathtub vs. Professional Finishing, 4 Solutions to Bathtub Reglazing Problems, How to Remove Grout, Mortar, and Drywall Mud From a Bathtub. The substances pros use to reglaze a tub can be a bit dangerous. Methylene chloride can cause serious health problems and can even stop breathing in large enough concentrations. Thank you for supporting my website! Delivered to your inbox twice weekly - for free. Its also ideal for certain types bathtubs. Once the coating is dry, remove the tape, reattach hardware, and caulk around the tub. 5 Potential Project Benefits. My posts are inspired by our renovations on our 1950s ranch. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. All painted tubs peel, and the use of a mat makes that happen much faster. Home; About. Methyl chloride has high vapor pressure, meaning that it evaporates extremely quickly and turns into gas that can easily be inhaled, especially in a small bathroom that may not be adequately ventilated. The bathtub refinishing process involves three steps: To find a reputable contractor, ask friends for recommendations or check with the Better Business Bureau. (Obviously, no, but you get the idea.). Sanding down the old bathtub finish - The first step towards applying the new finish is removing the old one. Instead, if the surface feels unpolished and rough, that indicates a potential problem in reglazing. That means absolutely anyone can get into this line of work. For the most part, it depends on the person who has done the glazing. How much should you renovate your NYC apartment before selling it? But it's not just about looks. The process is also otherwise referred to as refinishing, resurfacing, and recoating. ), [Its] a great way to make a grimy, stain-ridden bathtub look new again, says Dan DiClerico, HomeAdvisor'ssmart home strategistand home expert. Bathtub Reglazing Problems That Appear Almost Immediately, Bathtub Reglazing Problems That May Arise After Years, The Preventive Approach How to Save Your Bathroom Tub from Future Problems, People Also Ask About Tub Reglazing Pros and Cons. An excellent permanent bathtub liner will cost you about $50-$200, while a disposable one will cost you under $20. If you're using dish soap, pour some onto the surface and spread it with a sponge. Additionally, a plumber will work there, so you wont be able to use the washroom for at least three days before the replacement is complete. Marcus received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Its an especially convenient job if you have two bathrooms because it means you wont be locked out of the bathroom all day longand possibly the next day as wellwhich makes the job a lot more doable. Make sure to factor in some wiggle room in your budget for any tile you might need to put the area around the tub back together. Tubs that are in bad disrepair might also not be suited for reglazing. I run a hardware store nearby Court Anaheim, CA. On top of that, even carrying the bathtubs in and out will require a workforce too. The moment you repeat the process, the chances are that youll weaken the tub, shortening its life. You should always wear protective clothing and use the appropriate safety-rated equipment whenever you are doing any household repair or remodeling work, and reglazing a bathtub is no exception. Besides, its easy to apply as you only need to wipe it on the tub. Bubbling is one of the most common problems you can face after reglazing a bathtub. You have to hire professionals who can apply the coating properly and mix the right amount of materials for the coating. Though few homeowners love cleaning their bathtub, regular cleaning once a week or depending on the frequency of use is the single best way to keep your tub clean without damaging it. Reglazing problems that occur years later are typically due to usage and may result in scratches, gouges . Well, look no further because Ive got your answer! Bathtub reglazing has its fair share of drawbacks, which include the following: Bathtub reglazing involves some painting work, which means you may be exposed to fumes. Need professional help with your project? Liners can only mimic exactly what you started with, but you can change the color. Otherwise, exposure to those chemicals can result in serious injury. What's the difference between jumbo and conforming loans? As you can see here, poor preparation can turn into bigger issues and mess the whole thing up. Most reglazed bathtubs last 6-10 years, some even up to 15 years, depending on maintenance. Solution: The solution to fading is pretty straightforward. Bed Bath & Beyond stakeholders who have questions can email BBBYInfo@ra.kroll.com or call at (833) 570-5355 or (646) 440-4806 if calling from outside the U.S. or Canada. Consider using this Bathtub Wipe-On Refinishing Primer, which promises to improve the lifespan of your tub. If fading occurs, the bathtub runs into the risk of having cracks and scratches again. But that might not be the case always as the surface may feel sticky sometimes. Reglazing a tub doesn't actually take that long to do. It's usually a temporary fix since bathtub reglazing is a purely cosmetic update. Tub replacement is more like major surgery, which drives up the cost and complexity of the project, DiClerico said. But have you ever thought about what makes this renovation technique so popular among homeowners? Whether you're dealing with minor rust spots or a major mess, there's a bathtub renovation option out there to fit your budget, timeline and lifestyle. Robern Vs. Kohler Medicine Cabinet: Which One Should You Pick? And if you opt for DIY, ensure you wear a gas mask, gloves, and other protective gear. We're breaking down three of the most popular options with the help of some pros who know all about turning a bathtub nightmare into a dream come true. What Is The Ideal Spray Paint Temperature? Even if you hire a professional to reglaze or refinish your bathtub, you and your family or other residents should leave the property during the entire process, including while the epoxy coat cures after application. A reglazed finish on a tub is more of a temporary fix and should not be considered permanent. Apart from buying a new bathtub, installing it comes with supplementary costs too. Whether you're the owner of a DIY-finished or professionally finished tub, it's best to use onlysoft liquid cleansers to clean and maintain the coating. 11. The reason is that a refinished tub coating is layers of specialized paint that can be nicked or scratched without care, so it's best to stick to non-abrasive cleaners. "This is the only option that truly enables a homeowner to have a tub or a bathroom that truly meets their specific needs," Rascoe said. The action is simply too powerful for the coating to withstand. The process isn't always the best solution, of course. Brooklyn resident Emily Gilbert had her familys tub and part of the bathroom wall reglazed four-and-a-half years ago (read more about that here), and overall, is pleased with the results. Himmelstein McConnell Gribben & Joseph LLP, What you need to know about upgrading your electrical system when renovating. NYC Renovation Chronicles: 5 ways to save on your bathroom renovation, Renovating a co-op?