Why Refinish

Why Refinish?

Refinishing is a way to bring back the new look of your piece without replacing. Most of the time refinishing is a cheaper alternative over replacing and can provide almost the same results. Every case is different and we recommend you weigh your options to make an informed decision. With this being said, we would be happy to go over your options along with the pros and cons of each case. We take pride in helping our customers make an informed decision even if that means suggesting a process other than refinishing.

A few notes about Refinishing

Although sometimes referred to as “Re-Glazing”, our process is actually “Refinishing”. Re-Glazing can only be achieved at the factory where the porcelain is baked onto the surface in a high temperature oven. With any refinishing project, whether it be with floors, furniture, or tubs, the more time spent on a project the better the finish, and the closer it will look to its original condition.

Our quoted prices, unless otherwise noted, reflect the level of finish that 98% of our customers are satisfied with for their investment. If a customer feels they might be in the other 2% and expect the look of “PERFECT” or “BRAND NEW”, replacing the entire tub and/or tile should be considered. Refinishing will get you 95% the look of new for a fraction of the cost.

As part of the normal refinishing process, there may be a settling of dust and particles onto the tub coating after refinishing is complete, even with the very best ventilation system. When this happens, the surface could invariably feel slightly “gritty” to the touch. This often works itself out over time with normal use and cleaning - usually a couple of months, depending on use.

For customers who desire a Detailed and Polished surface right away, we can return up to 30 days after refinishing to Detail and Polish your tub for an extra fee. This process will remove any dust or particles that may have fallen onto the coating.

What Are My Options?

Replace a New Tub

At first glance, purchasing a new tub might seem like a good solution, as you can pick one up for as little as $300. But when you consider the demolition and removal of the old tub, the possible relocation of plumbing and other carpentry jobs that could accompany a replacement, the cost to remove a bathtub can easily reach $3,000.

Not only is the price high, but think about the time you have to deal with workers coming in and out of your house, all the dust, all the noise. You could have to deal with this for days maybe even longer if they run into problems during the installation.

What about Tub Liners?

Companies offering to come in and drop an acrylic mold over your existing bathtub may sound like a good idea, but what else is there to know about this process.

To order a liner, a representative comes to your home and takes photos and measurements, which are sent out to a manufacturing facility. Two to three weeks later, the insert is delivered and installed. The installation process can typically be accomplished in a single day.

Because of their very nature, however, liners simply cover up — rather than solve — problems. If you have any existing moisture problems around the tub, they'll be sealed under the acrylic liner, which isn't a very good idea.

Additionally, unless the liner is installed perfectly, water can collect between the liner and the walls or the old tub, which could lead to mold and mildew problems. Homeowners have also reported some liners feeling a bit spongy or hollow underfoot.

Lastly, tub inserts are more expensive than bathtub refinishing, costing roughly $3,500 to $5,500 (and more if you install a wall unit).

Bathtub Refinishing

Bathtub refinishing (also known as bathtub reglazing) can cost as little as $400 and is therefore the cheapest tub revamp project you can do. If you work with a reputable contractor, the coating can last for years. We here at Beachside Refinishing are licensed and insured. We also back our work with a limited residential warranty. The process we use can last 10 ~ 15 years with proper care.

When cleaning your tub, be careful not to use harsh abrasive powders or scrubbers because the surface can scratch and eventually wear away. During the refinishing process, you won't be able to use your tub for approximately 24 hours, so plan accordingly.

There are many DIY bathtub refinishing kits on the market for a cheap price. We strongly advise not to try them. The majority of these kits are epoxies which will yellow over time and are applied using a brush or roller which leaves an uneven finish. Also these kits are just a temporary fix and will peel in just a few months.

We take pride in our process which stands out from our competitors. Click below to learn more about our application and the refinishing process.

Our process