Should You Replace Or Refinish Your Bathtub?
If your tub has chips, stains, – or even worse – cracks, then it time for you to consider repairing or replacing your bathtub. Generally speaking, that involves deciding whether to refinish your old bathtub or buying a new tub. When you are remodeling your bathroom and would like to change the appearance of your tub, either of these options can be quite useful.
No matter what the reason is for your tub needing an overhaul, there are certain things that need to consider when you are trying to decide whether your bathtub should be refinished or replaced.
What is Bathtub Refinishing?
You may be wondering what refinishing actually is, before we get into the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Refinishing is a type of tub repair process where the surface of the bathtub gets sanded and recoated. Refinishing is similar to painting your fingernails – it is simply the cosmetic outer layer.
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Your Bathtub’s Condition
The most important factor when deciding between replacement and refinishing is the condition of your bathtub. Although in most cases, refinishing is much more affordable compared to replacement, it is not able to fix everything.
Typically, serious holes or cracks are beyond what can be handled by refinishing. If your bathtub is in fairly good condition, and just has some discoloration, and perhaps some light scratches and small chips, then refinishing can be a very good choice. Also, refinishing is an outstanding choice when you just want to change the color of your bathtub to match your remodeling.
What Type of Bathtub Do You Own?
Certain materials are able to take refinishing much better compared to others. Therefore, the type of bathtub you have does matter. Steel and cast iron tubs are good refinishing candidates, while cheap and modern bathtubs might not fare as well. This leads us to cost comparisons. Can you purchase a new bathtub for the cost of refinishing?
In terms of high-end or antique bathtubs, refinishing is nearly always the approach that is more cost-effective. It is less sure with modern fiberglass bathtubs.
How Difficult Is It To Replace Your Bathtub?
Cast-iron clawfoot tubs weigh 200 to 400 pounds. Will you be able to get it out of your house? That is especially important to consider if you have stairs, and it becomes relevant how feasible removal and replacement are. This does not apply as much to lighter-weight tubs. However, keep in mind that you can choose the labor. It is also noteworthy whether the bathtub will fit through doorways. That can involve either having to deconstruct the bathtub inside your bathroom or temporarily making the doorway larger.
What Is Your Goal?
You also need to consider what you are trying to achieve. If you are planning to completely remodel your bathroom, which includes changing the appearance of your bathtub including its shape, then refinishing is not the right option. However, if you would just like to repair some minor damage or change the color of the finish of your tub, then refinishing is an outstanding choice.…