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By Molly Ryan

Bathtub Refinishing vs. Bathtub Replacement: Which One Is Best for Me?

Every time you walk into your bathroom, the first thing you notice is that bathtub. Maybe it’s cracked or warped, and you don’t feel comfortable soaking in it anymore. Maybe it’s simply faded, outdated, and bringing down the aesthetic of your bathroom. Either way, you’re ready for an upgrade, and it’s time to decide between two popular services: bathtub refinishing and bathtub replacement.

Here at ZINTEX Remodeling, bathtub replacements account for about 15% of the thousands of remodels we complete every year. We’re here to answer any questions you have about bathtub refinishing vs. bathtub replacement to help you decide which one is right for you.

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What Is Bathtub Refinishing?

Bathtub refinishing is the process of repairing or adding a new coat to the bathtub you already have. Bathtub refinishing can be a bit of a catch-all term that includes services like:

  • Bathtub resurfacing: Cleaning your tub and filling any chips or cracks before adding an acrylic or polyurethane spray finish. This gives your tub a glossy look and protects it from certain types of wear and tear.
  • Bathtub reglazing: Spraying that acrylic or polyurethane finish onto your existing tub without as-needed cleaning and repairs.
  • Bathtub liner installation: Installing a PVC shell over your existing tub. This shell creates a brand-new surface, hiding the old tub surface (and whatever problems it may have had) below.

Most bathroom remodelers who offer bathtub liner installation will clearly differentiate between liner services and something like reglazing. That said, some people do consider a new tub liner to function as a sort of resurfacing for an existing tub, as it does provide a new bathtub surface.

What Is Bathtub Replacement?

 Bathtub replacement is a more comprehensive approach to updating your bathtub. Bathtub replacement is typically going to involve: 

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Demolition

The complete removal of the existing bathtub (and, when you work with ZINTEX, the existing bathtub surround system). 

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Structural Upgrades

As-needed repairs and upgrades to things like your support beams, drywall, subflooring, pipes, and drain system. This can also include mold removal, if needed.

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New Material Installation

Installation of all new materials (which will include the bathtub unit and, with ZINTEX, the waterproof acrylic wall system).

Assuming you work with a company like ZINTEX, who customizes your entire project from start to finish, bathtub replacement will also include accessory installation. Popular bathtub accessories include grab bars, grab shelves, corner shelves, and soap niches.

Is the Bathtub Refinishing Cost Lower Than the Bathtub Replacement Cost?

 Across the board, bathtub refinishing is always the cheapest way to upgrade your bathtub. Services like reglazing can cost as little as $350, while a new bathtub liner typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500. Fully customized bathtub replacement services start at around $11,000.  

Bathtub reglazing cost

Bathtub liner installation cost

Bathtub replacement cost

$350+

$1,500-$3,500

$11,000+

This difference in cost is reflective of the difference in complexity and thoroughness of each of these services.

On the low end, bathtub reglazing temporarily prevents further blemishes like surface-level cracks. On the high end, bathtub replacement eradicates major problems like mold growth and leaves you with a brand-new bathtub (or tub-shower combo) that meets more of your daily needs.

Bathtub Refinishing Durability vs. New Bathtub Durability

Upfront costs aren’t the only thing to consider when deciding how to upgrade your bathtub. Durability is the other half of that equation. How long will it actually last before you need to invest in yet another upgrade?

Bathtub reglazing typically buys you about 5-7 years before you need to refinish your tub again. Importantly, this is assuming that you aren’t overlooking major problems like leaks, rot, or mold growth, which reglazing cannot address. The same goes for tub liner installation, which will typically get you about 5-10 years before you need another upgrade.

Bathtub replacement provides the best long-term solution, especially if you do need to address structural problems, plumbing damage, or mold growth. A new, high-quality acrylic bathtub from ZINTEX will last a minimum of 15 years, and more likely 20+ with proper care.

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Is Bathtub Refinishing Enough?

There are plenty of circumstances when bathtub refinishing is enough. For example, you might want to invest in bathtub refinishing or a new bathtub liner if:

  • Your bathroom was recently built or remodeled, and you know the plumbing and structural support are in great shape
  • Your main objective is to hide surface-level damage and prevent further surface-level wear and tear
  • You’re working on a guest or hall bathroom that isn’t used often
  • You’re making minor upgrades before listing your property for sale

Bathtub refinishing can be a great way to extend the lifespan of a tub that’s still in good working condition.

Is It Time for Bathtub Replacement?

Many homeowners will find that bathtub replacement services are worth the investment. For example, you may want to consider a full bathtub replacement if:

  • Your bathroom needs more than just surface-level upgrades (e.g., you suspect or know you need to address structural problems like water damage, old plumbing, rot, or mold growth)
  • You’re upgrading a bathtub that gets used often and isn’t currently serving your family as well as it could
  • You want complete control over the functional and aesthetic design of your new tub or tub-and-shower combo
  • You’re thinking ahead to a future home sale and want to maximize your property value when the time comes

Bathtub replacement is the way to go when a minor touch-up isn’t enough to address your structural, functional, or aesthetic goals.

Learn More About Bathtub Replacement from a Company with 25 Years of Experience

Bathtub refinishing is a great quick-fix for recently remodeled bathrooms that need an aesthetic upgrade. If you’re looking for a more holistic approach to your bathtub remodel, you’re in the right place.

ZINTEX Remodeling has been offering bathroom remodeling services for 25 years and counting. Learn more about our bathtub replacement services and don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation.

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