What Is Reglazing a Tub?

Benefits

• Reglazing a tub, rather than replacing it, offers several benefits. The ability to give your bathtub the appearance of a brand-new one without having to rip out the old one, deal with the mess that remodeling creates and be inconvenienced by being unable to use your tub for several days or weeks is an attractive feature of reglazing. Reduced expense is another reason to reglaze. The cost of tub refinishing is considerably less than a complete tub replacement, and the new finish that is applied is durable and lasts for years.

The Process

• Tub reglazing is a multistep process that can be accomplished in a matter of hours. Not a job to be undertaken by the weekend DIY enthusiast, tub refinishing should be done by a trained professional. The process includes a thorough removal of the existing finish, a complete washing and sanding of the tub surface and a high-powered spray-on application of the new finish. Fixtures and surrounding tiles are covered to avoid accidental discoloration, and the new bathtub finish is allowed to dry for a 24-hour period.

Colors and Options

• Tub reglazing isn't strictly limited to tubs. You can also opt to have your bathroom sink and ceramic tiles done as well. The same refinishing process can be used on kitchen sinks and tiles, and some companies offer countertop refinishing also. When it comes to colors, you can choose an identical or similar color to what you already have or change the shade completely --- either lighter or darker. Tub refinishing isn't limited to reproducing what you already have, since the old finish is removed and the new finish offers complete coverage.

Hiring a Reglazer

• When you select a company to perform the reglazing process, opt for an experienced professional. Never hire a fly-by-night contractor for the application of toxic chemicals in your home. Ask for references, particularly for jobs that were done several years before. Contacting longstanding customers will allow you to inquire as to how the new finish has held up over the years. Contact the Better Business Bureau to find out if there have been complaints filed against the company's employees before hiring them. If so, ascertain if and how they were resolved. Select a company that offers a warranty on its reglazing work.