Does Bathtub Refinishing Work?
Your old bathtub can be made to look like new in a few hours. A glossy, smooth finish can be applied with lasting results. Meanwhile, refinishing can save you hundreds of dollars off the cost of replacement.
Bathtub refinishing, reglazing and resurfacing are interchangeable terms. Bathroom refinishing can be done quickly because it involves the application of a coating, using an HVLP Spray gun. The finish should not be confused with the original porcelain enamel that is applied at a factory. A factory finish is applied in a kiln at several hundred degrees. This process cannot be emulated in the field. Nonetheless, the end result is a glossy, durable finish that can last ten years or more. The coating will never be quite as hard or glossy as real enamel. Therefore, if you are gutting your bathroom it may be preferable to install a brand new bathtub.
The real problem with replacing a bathtub involves the wall and floor tiles. It is often necessary to tear up tiles to match the margins of a new tub installation. Putting in new tiles can get costly. Refinishing is often said to save 75 percent off replacement costs. Color changes are very popular with old tubs. An avocado green bathtub that screams 1965 can be refurbished to a dazzling white. Cosmetic changes to a bathroom, such as rugs, curtains and a new vanity can often bring a room up to date. A harvest gold bathtub can still seem like the elephant in the room. Refinishing it white will refresh the entire room.
Does bathtub refinishing work? It is important to hire the right professional. This is not a DIY project. Chemicals used to harden the finish can prove injurious. Skill is required to lay down a smooth finish. Even factors such as indoor humidity and the texture of your bathtub can influence whether the coating adheres. A seasoned pro will have worked past problems associated with these issues. The skill of the practitioner is more important than the products used. There are many fine suppliers of refinishing materials. Bathtub refinishing is a tricky business, so make sure you check references. Refinishers can be found by doing an internet search on terms like, “bathtub refinishers,” or “tub reglazing.” It is best to avoid companies that send out technicians. Some firms will hire employees and train them for only a couple of weeks before sending them into the field. It takes several years to perfect the trade. The refinisher you want is the one who has been doing the work himself for at least five years. Expect to pay between $300-$400.00 to have your tub reglazed. Pricing may vary based on the size of the market in which you live. Most refinishers are offering a five year warranty. Need bathtub refinishing in Miami Dade > Care for a refinished bathtub is similar to that of any bathtub, with a couple of extra precautions. Never use abrasive products. Even a product such as Sof-Scrub contains harsh granules that can dull any finish. Never use suction cup bathmats on a refinished bathtub. They can trap water, pulling up the finish. Likewise, sitting water from leaky faucets, drain covers or recessed areas can pull up the coating over time. With proper care, you can enjoy your resurfaced tub for a very long time!
