Bathtub Makeover: 3 Options to Bring Back Your Tub's Original Shine

February 21, 2025
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After a long day, it’s nice to remember that you have a warm and relaxing bubble bath waiting for you. Just imagine taking in that calming and heavenly scent and enjoying a peaceful moment as you lay down in the bathtub.

It’s an entirely different story if your trusty tub has become a place you don’t want to sink into anymore. This could be because of rust or grime and cracks that have started to turn your once shiny bathroom fixture into an unwelcoming sight.

If you’re facing the same dilemma, we’re here to help you out! In the sections below, you will find three common options when it comes to tub renovations. They have their pros and cons that you must consider to help you find the right method for you.  

1. Bathtub Replacement

This is a great option is you want a fresh start and a total tub replacement. That, you should also remember that since the whole fixture will be replaced, this option is quite time-consuming and costly.

Aside from removing your existing bathtub to be able to install the new one, the wall tiles near it usually have to be pulled out as well. This may require drywall and/or plaster repairs, too. Moreover, you can take this opportunity to upgrade other fixtures such as the shower valve.  

The good thing about getting a replacement is that you get to choose a new material, size, and shape for your tub. Moreover, you can have it relocated to another spot in your bathroom to truly customize the space.

The drawback is that, because of all of these renovations, the whole project is likely to be expensive. Additionally, it can take up to several weeks or months depending on the complexity and scope of the project.

2. Bathtub Liners

In the simplest words, they are an acrylic duplicate of your existing tub, made from heating and vacuum forming PVC (polyvinyl chloride) sheet to a shape that matches it. This can be the perfect solution if you want a new color, or if your tub and its surrounding area are suffering from far too many cracks, chips, and missing tile work.

Installing the liner is straightforward; all that’s needed to do is to place the liner on top of your existing bathtub and attach it permanently using silicone acrylic and two-sided tape. However, the whole process can take up to two months as the installers will need to take precise measurements and mold the acrylic liner that fits your existing tub just right.

3. Bathtub Reglazing

Sometimes also referred to as refinishing or resurfacing, this process involves sanding down your tub’s surface, filling in the cracks, applying various primer coats and paint, and finally, buffing it. In simple words, it’s a cosmetic update that can make your worn-out bathtub look brand new again at a fraction of the cost of a replacement.

Reglazing is your best option when you’re dealing with minor stains, scratches, and other surface imperfections. Moreover, it’s the most affordable bathtub renovation option in this list and usually takes only a day to complete.

The drawback is that the substances that some companies use are toxic and can be dangerous for your family and pets. You will need to coordinate with the pros about the safety precautions you need to take to keep everyone safe.

Conclusion

The question now remains: which bathtub renovation option is right for you? The answer lies in the condition of your tub, your budget, and the duration of the project. Replacement, liners, and reglazing all make your bathroom a pleasant space for relaxation again, but you need to find the one that fits your current needs. We hope this article helped you understand their differences further to come up with the right decision.

If you think that bathtub reglazing is what you need, we’re the ones to call! We’re the leading provider of professional bathtub reglazing services in Baltimore, MD using our patented refinishing process to give your bathtub an amazing new look. Give us a call to get a free estimate!