Unveiling the Truth About Refinishing: Debunking Common Myths

When it comes to giving your bathroom a fresh new look, tub and tile refinishing can be a game-changer. But, like many home improvement options, it's shrouded in myths that can deter homeowners from considering this effective and cost-saving solution. One such myth is the belief that refinishing is only a temporary fix, destined to peel and fade within a short period. In this blog post, we'll dive into this misconception and reveal the truth behind the longevity and durability of a well-executed refinishing job. So, let's put this myth to rest and explore why refinishing might be the perfect option for your bathroom makeover.

 Here are the common myths about tub and tile refinishing without the facts:

Myth: Refinishing is only a temporary fix.

1st Myth: Refinishing is only a temporary fix

Refinishing can actually last up to 5-10 years, depending on how well the client takes care of the resurfaced bathtub and the quality of the workmanship. Both the expertise of the company performing the refinishing and the adherence to maintenance guidelines by the client play crucial roles in the durability of the refinished surface. If the vendor is competent and the client follows the provided instructions, the refinishing should hold up for about 5-10 years. While refinishing is not a permanent solution, it can extend the life of the bathtub significantly and can be done multiple times if needed.

However, certain conditions, such as rust or major holes, may require more attention. In some cases, complete replacement might be the best option. Nevertheless, a skilled refinishing company can address these issues effectively, helping clients save money in the long run by delaying the need for a full replacement. Refinishing also provides a functional tub while homeowners save money for a larger renovation. Since replacement can be costly, refinishing offers a practical solution to maintain usability until the budget allows for a full replacement.

2nd Myth: Refinishing costs as much as replacing the tub.

Refinishing a standard size tub with no repairs needed generally costs between $425 and $600. While you can purchase a standard tub for this price, it's important to remember that replacing a tub involves more than just buying the tub itself. You'll need to remove the tiles around the tub, handle plumbing to remove the hardware, and of course, remove the existing tub. All of this work requires additional labor and materials, which can quickly add up.

Here in the Tampa Bay area, the average cost to replace a bathtub ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, according to the vendors we work with. These prices can vary based on location. So, is refinishing cost-effective? Absolutely. The difference in cost between refinishing and replacing can be several thousand dollars. 

Not all homeowners can afford the expense of replacement, but refinishing offers a functional and cost-effective alternative while they save for a full renovation. If you have the budget for a replacement, by all means, go ahead. However, for those looking to save money, refinishing is a practical solution.

3rd Myth: DIY refinishing kits is worth it than hiring a professional.

There are many ways to DIY a home renovation, but we believe that refinishing is not a DIY project. It requires specialized skills that are acquired over years of experience. Sure, you can YouTube how to remove hardware and paint walls, but learning how to spray a tub or tiles is a different story. It's similar to spraying your car—would you tackle that project yourself, or leave it to a professional? Most people would prefer to leave it to a professional.

While DIY kits can save you money initially, as they are more economical than hiring a professional, you might only be saving a couple of hundred dollars for a long-term pain. Instead of hiring a professional, the DIY kit may not even last you for a month. Some people take the time to sand down the tub properly, and kudos to them. But many others simply apply the coatings, which can start peeling after a month.

Refinishing involves more than just painting a tub. It requires proper procedures such as etching the tub, masking and sanding down, tacking the surface to avoid dust prior to priming, and applying the top coat. Additionally, the coatings we use are high-quality, durable industrial coatings compared to the DIY painting kits for tub and tile refinishing.

Investing in professional refinishing ensures that you get a long-lasting, high-quality finish that saves you money and hassle in the long run. If you want a job done right, it's worth leaving it to the professionals.

4th Myth: Refinishing is not eco-friendly.

Refinishing is indeed an eco-friendly procedure despite some minor environmental impact during the process. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Reduction of Waste: By refinishing a tub, you are preventing it from ending up in a landfill. This helps reduce the amount of waste generated and minimizes the strain on landfills.

2. Resource Conservation: Refinishing extends the life of your existing tub, which means fewer natural resources are used to produce new tubs. This includes the materials required for manufacturing and the energy consumed during production and transportation.

3. Lower Carbon Footprint: The refinishing process typically involves less transportation and fewer materials compared to replacing a tub. This results in a lower carbon footprint overall.

4. Less Disruption: Refinishing requires less demolition and construction, which means there is less noise, dust, and debris generated. This contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment.

While it is true that the refinishing process may involve some fumes and chemicals, professional refinishers are equipped with proper ventilation systems and safety measures to minimize any negative impact. The long-term environmental benefits of refinishing, such as reducing waste and conserving resources, outweigh the short-term challenges.

By choosing to refinish rather than replace, you are making a sustainable choice that helps protect the environment. Plus, you get to enjoy a refreshed, like-new tub without the cost and hassle of a full replacement!

5th Myth: All refinishing products are the same.

Not all refinishing jobs are created equal. It takes years to acquire the knowledge and experience required to be a competent refinisher. It's not just about the number of years of experience; it's also crucial to follow proper steps and pay attention to details. Some people may learn refinishing from those who claim to be skilled but neglect simple techniques like attention to detail.

Additionally, the materials refinishers use play a significant role in the quality and durability of the refinished surface. Some refinishers may opt for cheap materials, resulting in inferior finishes. At Bathtub Reglazing Specialist, we invest in high-quality materials, including paints and papers. Our commitment to using top-notch materials and following proper refinishing procedures is why our work stands out.

We often receive inquiries from other refinishers on social media, asking about the materials we use, as they see the quality of our work and the excellent finished products we produce. Choosing a professional refinishing service that prioritizes quality materials and skilled techniques ensures a long-lasting and beautiful finish for your tub and tiles.

Refinishing your tub and tiles is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to breathe new life into your bathroom. While there are many myths surrounding the refinishing process, it's important to understand the facts and benefits it offers. From extending the lifespan of your fixtures to reducing waste and conserving resources, refinishing is a practical solution for homeowners looking to refresh their space without the expense and hassle of a full replacement. 

Refinishing can last for many years if done correctly by skilled professionals using high-quality materials. 

Remember, not all refinishing jobs are the same. The expertise of the refinisher and the quality of the materials used play a crucial role in the outcome. At Bathtub Reglazing Specialist, we pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and use of top-notch materials, ensuring a long-lasting, beautiful finish.

Thank you for taking the time to read through our blog. We hope it has provided valuable insights and debunked some of the common myths about tub and tile refinishing. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Happy refinishing!