The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in a house, so you want to make sure that it looks great and has a design that you love. However, you don't need to do a full renovation to fix up your bathroom because simply changing the tub already has a huge impact.
Make sure that you consider both a replacement tub and a liner or reglazing service to decide which one is best for you. Take a look at your options to see how they can change your tub and bathroom.
“If you want to succeed you should strike out on new paths, rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success." – John D. Rockefeller
What is a Tub Liner?
A tub liner is a good choice for those on a budget or those who don't want to spend a lot of money in the first place. A tub liner is an insert made from acrylic that is molded to mimic the design of a bathtub.
When using one, your contractor will make sure that the liner fits and then apply a layer of special adhesive to the tub. They will then add the liner and make sure that there aren't any leaks.
However,
While a tub liner is a popular choice because it hides your old tub, it has some potential issues. If any cracks form, water can build up between the tub and liner. This allows mold or mildew to grow. When this happens, you may need to remove the entire tub and replace it.
What is Bathtub Reglazing?
Another option is tub reglazing. This allows you to save your old tub and bring it back to its former glory. Your contractor will first clean the tub and inspect it for any signs of damage. They can use sealants to make the tub resistant to water damage.
Also known as bathtub refinishing, the process involves sanding down the tub and using materials to restore its look. If you have a tub in an outdated color, refinishing is your best bet.
How Much Does it Cost?
The average bathtub remodel cost depends on which option you choose. You can walk into almost any hardware or home improvement store and find liners for as little as $500.
If you don't have much experience or aren't confident in your skills, you need to hire a contractor for the job, which can cost between $1,200 and $1,600, depending on your location. Refinishing your tub is often more affordable because workers can do the job for as little as $700.
How Long Will it Take?
Another thing to consider is how long the job will take, especially if you only have one bathroom in your home. You can’t have the bathroom locked for several days in a row, after all.
Bathtub resurfacing is a good choice if you want to get it done fast. You usually have the chance to meet with your contractor ahead of time and pick the color that you want for the tub. They can arrive in the morning with all of the required materials and finish the job within a few hours or by the end of the day.
The longest part is waiting for the materials to dry, which may mean that you can't use the tub for another 24 to 48 hours.
If you choose a tub liner, you need to wait a little longer. Professional contractors will come to your home and measure the tub. They usually make custom liners and avoid using the liners sold in stores because they are not as durable.
You will also need to spend some time choosing the right color and picking from different materials. The person who installs the liner will come back at a later date of your choosing. It can take several weeks before an appointment becomes available, but it often takes only a day to install the liner once it is ready.
When to Choose a New Tub
Don't forget that you also have the option of replacing your old tub with a new one. Do you notice water pooling around the tub? This might be a sign that the tub leaks and can lead to a serious mold problem.
You may want to replace your old tub when you see large cracks in the surface. Many people also remove their old tubs when they want one that is bigger or smaller – or simply with a better-looking design.
Buying a new tub lets you customize it and pick all of the features that you want. You might choose a tub with jets that help you relax after working out or one with a built-in headrest that lets you soak for an hour or longer in complete comfort.
Though the cost to redo bathtub features is quite high, you can save money with a new tub. Visiting a home improvement store helps you get an idea of your options and decide what you want before meeting with a contractor.
It takes only a day to install your new tub – assuming you find a professional that’s available right away.
Hopefully by comparing all of these options you will figure out what’s the best idea for your home, whether it’s bathtub replacement, reglazing or installing a tub liner!
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