Bathtub Reglazing

Is Bathtub Reglazing Practical? This is a question heard over and over again. The answer is yes and no. If you have the financial ability and willingness to completely renovate your bathroom then no. If financial issues prohibit the costs involved with a complete overhaul then absolutely.

There is much more involved with the removal of a bathtub than one may think. I have heard people say “Why does it cost $400 to reglaze a bathtub when I can buy a new one at Home Depot for $200″. Yes, you can buy a bathtub for $200 but the reality is this… by the time you pay for the tub, new plumbing, tile and flooring, and professionals to install your new fixture you are well into the THOUSANDS!

Here is an example of what the simplest tub extraction will consist of.

Removing a Tub Step 1

1.) First all plumbing fixtures are disconnected. Using a saw, at least 6 inches of wall is removed from around the tub. Now this looks like a simple process and can be depending what is behind the tile. If there is metal mesh and plaster which was typically used in the 60s then it is much more difficult. Also, consider the fact that matching that old tile is unlikely but not impossible, there are a couple of tile companies out there that re-manufacture the old look.

Removing a Tub Step 2

2.) Then using a wrecking bar the tub is pried loose.

Removing a Tub Step 3

3.) Then the tub is lifted with a wrecking bar while soaped 1×4 wood skids are slid underneath. Now the tub will slide away on the skids. Sounds simple so far?

Removing a Tub Step 4

4.) Last, a pressed steel, polymer or fiberglass tub is then cut up into pieces for disposal. A cast iron tub can be covered with a tarp and smashed to bits.

This is the least you can expect from the removal of your bathtub. The walls in these pics are pristine with no apparent water damage. In an old home this is unlikely and will probably require some structural repair. What you will probably end up doing is a complete demo on the tub surround walls. Your $200 tub has just cost you a headache. By the time you are done with your $200 tub replacement you will have remodeled your whole bathroom because of murphy’s law.

Bathtub Reglazing can be done in a day, used between 24 and 48 hours and save you the expense and headaches involved with traditional replacement which makes it very practical.

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