Bathtub Reglazing: What to Expect

Tasks

• Before starting the reglazing, clean the bathtub and remove any old caulking from the perimeter. You will also need to cover and mask areas that will not be reglazed. Remove the overflow cover, faucet and any other fixtures. Fill in chipped, scratched or worn areas, and apply an acid etching agent to help the paint bond to the bathtub's surface. Lightly sand and smooth the bathtub's surface before adding primer. Do not add paint until the primer is dry. Buff the painted surface to give the bathtub a smooth and polished finish.

Time and Cost

• Reglazing your bathtub is a practical option if budget and time constraints prevent you from performing a complete overhaul and bathroom renovation. A new bathtub alone can be purchased at a reasonable price, but the labor costs associated with new tile, plumbing and flooring will exceed what you would have spent doing a reglazing job. The Bathtub Refinishing Association of America states that bathtub replacement work can run from $3,500 to $5,000, as of the date of publication. In contrast, refinishing a bathtub reglazing project costs between $350 to $500. Reglazing projects are also less time intensive and consuming than replacement work. While bathtub a replacement averages between five and eight days of work, bathtub reglazing can typically takes four to five hours to complete.

Considerations

• Adequate preparation is key for properly reglazing your bathtub. In addition to cleaning and vacuuming the work area, factor in additional costs for possible re-caulking and re-grout work. Also, contractors may charge an additional fee for stripping off old glazing, and repairing tiles and holes in and around the bathtub.

Potential Hazards

• Be cognizant of the types of materials used during reglazing. Some bathtub reglazing products are toxic and release harmful fumes after hardening. They also damage the environment. Ask your contractor or manufacturer about the types of reglazing products they use and whether they have a high toxicity level. Stay away from chemicals that may be harmful to you, pets or the environment during the curing process. Also, use protective coverings while working with corrosive materials such as acid. Accidental drips and spills can cause damage to your floor and other surfaces, and irritate the eyes and skin.