When dealing with an old and ugly bathtub, reglazing is always an option, more so if you cannot afford to replace it. But like every other DIY project, bathtub reglazing has its advantages and drawbacks, and that’s why this post talks about reglazing bathtub pros and cons.
But before we can look at the pros and cons of reglazing your bathtub, I should explain what bathtub reglazing is. That’ll help you understand from the start if you should consider it or not.
We’ll also talk about the problems (not the cons) associated with bathtub reglazing and the costs too.
Let’s get into it.
What is Bathtub Reglazing?
Bathtub reglazing is the final step in the bathtub restoration process. It involves restoring the tub to its original look, giving it a fresh look, covering dents, chipping, and fading defects.
Most people use tub resurfacing, tub refinishing, tub recoloring, and tub refinishing for bathtub reglazing.
Reglazing A Bathtub Pros and Cons
Reglazing a Bathtub Pros
Here are the general advantages of reglazing a bathtub:
1. You Can Do It Yourself (DIY)
While hiring a professional is advisable to avoid the various problems of tub reglazing, you can do it yourself. All it takes is a bathtub reglazing kit like the Ekopel 2K Bathtub Reglazing Kit which comes with all the necessary tools and a video tutorial to help you do it.
Furthermore, the product enjoys a 24-hour cure time, is eco-friendly, and has a bright and glossy coat.
2. Not Time Consuming
It takes a few hours to reglaze your bathtub and up to 1-2 days for everything to cure. So, you can use your bathtub after two days.
3. Cost-Saving
Let’s face it; it’s cheaper to reglaze a bathtub than get a new one. If you hire a tub reglazing professional, it’ll cost you $250-$800, depending on how bad the tub is.
But if you decide to get a reglazing kit and do it yourself, it’ll cost you about $50-$150, depending on the quality of the kit.
4. You Can Change the Color of Your Tub
If your bathtub’s color doesn’t appeal to you anymore, reglaze it. It’s that simple!
Reglazing allows you to pick a color coat that inspires you and one that’s warm. You can also use it to give your tub a modern look.
But before you can change its color, you should check for cracks, dents, and other imperfections and sand them first. You’ll then need to apply a primer or undercoat to improve the topcoat’s durability.
Consider using this Bathtub Wipe-On Refinishing Primer, which promises to improve the lifespan of your tub. Besides, it’s easy to apply as you only need to wipe it on the tub.
5. Cleaner-Looking Bathtub
Nothing annoys like brownish or greenish stuff on the tub. That’s often the case when fungi and mildew invade the tub. Fortunately, reglazing helps you eliminate them, leaving your tub looking spotless.
6. Repurpose an Older Bathtub
Perhaps you wish to own a specific bathtub style or size but cannot afford it. If so, then getting an old one for cheap at a garage sale, flipper market, or Craigslist, which matches the description, makes sense. You can then reglaze it and make it as new as you want.
Reglazing a Bathtub Cons
Bathtub reglazing has its fair share of drawbacks, which include the following:
a) Safety Concerns
Bathtub reglazing involves some painting work, which means you may be exposed to fumes. Some contain high levels of methylene chloride, which can be detrimental to your health.
Minor exposure to methylene chloride can cause dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, numbness, headaches, or throat irritation. However, a severe case can lead to loss of consciousness, cancer, and sometimes death.
That is why it’s advisable to hire a reglazing professional. And if you opt for DIY, ensure you wear a gas mask, gloves, and other protective gear.
b) Not Repetitive
Don’t expect to reglaze your bathtub yearly, as that is not possible. The moment you repeat the process, the chances are that you’ll weaken the tub, shortening its life.
So, it’s advisable only to reglaze the tub once, and if you do it correctly, it’ll serve you for several years as you wait to get a new one.
c) Not a Temporary Fix
If you think reglazing your bathtub is permanent, then you are wrong. The most you can get from it is 6-10 years, depending on the maintenance and if the reglazing was professionally done.
If you want a permanent fix, you should get a new bathtub.
Common Bathtub Reglazing Problems and Fixes!
Reglazing the bathtub can result in a few issues, depending on how the work was done. Some problems arise almost immediately due to wrong technique, while others occur after years due to tub usage.
Let’s discuss both.
Bathtub Reglazing Problems That Appear Almost Immediately
Due to the wrong technique, these issues may appear almost immediately after you reglaze your bathtub:
- Peeling – The topcoat may start peeling off due to inadequate cure time (usually 24 hours) or if you applied the paint on a dented surface.
- Fading – The bathtub may start to fade due to applying a thin coat or when you incorrectly mix the paint.
- Rough Texture – This may occur if you fail to strip off the old paint or apply a thin coat.
- Bubbles – Bubbles may form if you fail to properly remove air in between the coats, insufficient cure time, or fail to strip off the old coat.
- Stickiness – This may occur due to inadequate cure time.
Bathtub Reglazing Problems That May Arise After Years
Here are some problems which may arise after years of using the bathtub:
- Scratches
- Nicks
- Gouges
Fix
Here are your three options when it comes to fixing the above reglazing problems:
- Reglaze One More Time
The first fix is redoing the reglazing all over again but ensuring that you do it the right way this time around. If you opt for that, then you can reglaze partly or entirely.
But like I mentioned, it’s not a good idea to reglaze the bathroom repetitively. So, ensure you check the condition of the tub before doing it.
- Invest in a Bathtub Liner
If your tub is beyond reglazing and you cannot afford to get a new one, then you should invest in a bathtub liner and fit it.
An excellent permanent bathtub liner will cost you about $50-$200, while a disposable one will cost you under $20.
- Replace the Tub
If you can afford it, get a new bathtub. That saves you from doing all the work that comes with bathtub reglazing.
The Preventive Approach – How to Save Your Bathroom Tub from Future Problems
You can avoid most issues and lengthen the lifespan of your bathtub by taking proper care of it. It often involves these tips:
- Clean with warm water
- Use gentle liquid soaps – avoid abrasive options like bleach and ammonia-based cleaners
- Don’t use power sprays as they can damage the tub and void its warranty
- Wipe the tub with a soft, dry cloth
- Scrub with non-abrasive material like microfiber towels or sponges
Bathtub Reglazing Cost
The cost of reglazing a bathtub depends on whether you go DIY or hire a reglazing expert.
If you go DIY, a complete reglazing kit will cost you $150 at most, and you get everything, including the tools. The problem with this approach is that you may mess up if you have no one or video tutorials to direct you.
On the other hand, if you choose to hire a tub reglazing professional, the project will cost you $250-$800, depending on the severity of the tub damage.
Is Reglazing a Bathtub Worth It?
It’s undeniable that bathtub reglazing is not a permanent fix to a failing bathtub. It’s also undeniable that a few issues could arise due to wrong technique or usage.
But overall, there is so much that comes with bathtub reglazing that makes it worth it. For one, it’s more cost-effective than getting a new tub, and if well maintained, the reglazed bathtub could serve you for up to 10 years or even more, which is pretty okay.
Bathtub reglazing saves not only money but also time and effort. Plus, there is minimal disturbance as you only need to leave the house a day. And even so, there are no major plumbing or repairs which could mess up your bathroom.
The best part is that you get to retain your bathtub style and color or upgrade it whichever way you want. So, yes, bathtub reglazing is worth it.
People Also Ask About Tub Reglazing Pros and Cons
1. How Long Does Bathtub Reglazing Last?
A well-reglazed bathtub can last you 6-10 years or more, depending on the maintenance. In contrast, a poorly done or maintained bathtub will stay 1 or 2 years at most.
2. Does Reglazing a Tub Last?
Most reglazed bathtubs last 6-10 years, some even up to 15 years, depending on maintenance. So, it’s generally essential to take proper care of the reglazed bathtub to avoid possible problems and boost its lifespan.
3. Is Bathtub Reglazing Safe?
Provided the paint cures well, and the reglazing is done fine, a reglazed bathtub usually is safe to bathe in. However, you may have to wait for a day or two before you can use the tub.
And when doing the reglazing, wear protective gear such as a gas mask and gloves to protect yourself from the toxic ingredients.
4. Is It Difficult to Reglaze a Bathtub?
Reglazing a bathtub is not difficult if you have the right guide. Luckily, some reglazing kits come with video tutorials which you can use to complete the project DIY.
5. What Is the Difference Between Reglazing and Refinishing A Bathtub?
Bathtub refinishing is the entire process of restoring the bathtub to its former state. On the other hand, reglazing is the final phase of the restoration process, where you give the tub a new look.
Closing Remarks On Reglazing a Bathtub Pros and Cons:
Now you know the pros and cons of reglazing your bathtub. So, consider them when deciding if you should reglaze your bathtub or get a new one. But from a cost perspective, it’s more cost-effective reglazing a bathtub than getting a new one.
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