Science has shown that taking a bath can help your physical and emotional well-being.
But if you’re in a discolored, chipped, or unattractive tub, your bath could not be at all soothing. However, this does not imply that you need to go out and purchase a replacement.
This tutorial was created to show you when bathtub replacement is preferable to investing in bathtub refinishing.
So let’s start now!
Why Reglaze a Bathtub?
Recoating or refinishing a bathtub, commonly referred to as reglazing, is a purely aesthetic repair. Your tub will look brand new once the minor surface flaws have been removed.
Here’s how it functions.
Sanding the tub’s surface is the first step a skilled bathtub repair specialist will take. This eliminates any little stains or scrapes. Any remaining chips or cracks will then be filled. The tub will then receive a coat of primer and paint. Depending on the type of tub you have, they might need to apply several layers.
They will perform one last polishing after the painting is complete.
A bathtub that has seen better days can be revived by reglazing, but other bathtubs require more assistance. Learn when to save and replace your tub by reading on.
When to Replace the Tub Glaze
It might be worthwhile to save your bathtub if it’s still functionally sound. A lovely, smooth surface can once again be created by reglazing unattractive flaws.
However, it can’t be too bad for your tub. Here’s how to determine whether reglazing is the best choice for your tub.
Stains
Your bathtub will eventually start to show stains. Even if you clean it frequently, you’ll eventually have to cope with strange, yellowish discoloration.
This is common, but it’s also disgusting.
If your tub has light or dark stains, reglazing can restore its white color. The procedure of sanding and repainting will either get rid of the stains or hide them so you can’t see them anymore.
Little Scratches
You’ll cover up minor dings and scratches when you reglaze your bathtub. Most cracks can also be filled.
However, a tub with one or more significant cracks shouldn’t be reglazed. Your tub’s structural integrity could be compromised by these fissures, and leaks could result. Bathtubs with significant cracks should be replaced.
Otherwise, your bathtub can abruptly become a flood plain.
Limited funds
Reglazing is frequently less expensive than buying a new tub.
You must not only spend money on the purchase but also remove your old bathtub from your home. This frequently entails hiring a specialist to take it out and get rid of it for you.
The price may increase as a result.
Reglazing your tub might extend its life for less money if you don’t have much room in your budget. This will enable you to get a “new” tub without breaking the budget.
Replacement Time for Your Tub
While reglazing might improve your tub and give it a new lease on life, some tubs are beyond repair. Here are several indications that you should replace your bathtub with something new.
Your bathtub is aging
Bathtubs typically last 25 years. You should consider replacing your tub if it is approaching that age or is already older.
Even if it’s now in good working order, it might fail soon. Even while reglazing your tub will cost less than buying a new one, it won’t be worth the money if you have to replace it soon after.
It Requires Repairs Frequently
Consider purchasing a new bathtub if yours is in continual need of repairs. If you have to keep spending money on repairs after reglazing a broken tub, it is a waste of money.
An occasional repair, though, is nothing to be concerned about.
You’ll have a bathtub that lasts you for a very long time once the issue is fixed and the surface is reglazed. The cost, time, and effort required to maintain a tub that requires many repairs each year is not worth it.
Time Limited
The reglazing procedure could require several visits. After all, the professional must wait for the primer to dry before they can paint anything, and they won’t be able to buffer your tub if the paint is still wet.
As a result, you might have to wait a week or two for your bathtub to be completed.
If you can’t wait, getting a new bathtub would be a better option. It may even be possible for you to purchase and install your new tub in a single day.
Big Leaks
You should start shopping for a replacement bathtub as soon as one begins to leak. It might be challenging and just a temporary solution to address serious bathtub leaks. Instead of spending money on an expensive repair that could not last, it is preferable to purchase a new tub.
Fungus and Mildew
You should remove any mold or mildew from your tub as soon as possible. Even though reglazing can hide mold, it won’t get rid of it. Serious health risks can result from continuing to use a moldy bathtub.
Among the signs of mold exposure are some of the following:
- breathing difficulties
- Headaches
- Reactions to allergens
- Fatigue
- Red eyes, itchiness, etc.
- Even more significant problems, such as anxiety, and depression, might arise from living with mold. Therefore, it’s wise to replace a bathtub as soon as you discover mold.
Knowing the Right Time to Refinish Your Bathtub
If your tub is still functional, bathtub refinishing is a worthwhile investment. Surface flaws like scratches, small cracks, and stains can be eliminated by the reglazing procedure.
Reglazing, however, is simply a waste of money if your tub is old, leaky, or moldy. You’ll eventually need to purchase a new bathtub.
Has your bathtub outlived its usefulness?
Learn more about our bathtub repair services and how we can assist you by clicking here.