What’s the Difference Between Bathtub Refinishing and Replacement?

When it comes to sprucing up your bathroom, your bathtub is usually the main star (or the main headache). If your tub is looking worse for wear, maybe it’s chipped, scratched, stained, or just plain outdated, you’ve probably found yourself torn between two choices: bathtub refinishing and bathtub replacement. 

It’s a common dilemma. Bathtub refinishing and replacement both have pros and cons, and figuring out what’s right for you will depend on your needs, budget, and timeline.

Let’s break down the difference between refinishing and replacement so that you can make the best choice for your home.

What Is Bathtub Refinishing?

Bathtub refinishing, also called resurfacing, is exactly what it sounds like. Instead of tearing out your old tub, you give it a facelift. This process involves repairing chips, sanding away imperfections, and adding a fresh coat of a special finish. Essentially, you’re restoring the tub to its former glory but with updated materials.

This is typically a four-step process: 

• Cleaning and Prep: The first step is to thoroughly clean the bathtub and remove any old caulking, grime, or soap scum.
• Sanding and Buffing: The tub’s surface is lightly sanded to remove imperfections and help the new coating adhere better.
• Applying the New Coating: A durable, enamel-like coating is sprayed or rolled onto the surface, which makes the tub look shiny and brand new.
• Drying and Curing: After the coating is applied, it needs time to dry and cure, usually taking a couple of days before it’s safe to use your tub.

What Is Bathtub Replacement?

Replacement means getting rid of your old bathtub and putting a new one in its place. Naturally, it is a much bigger project than refinishing, especially if you have a built-in tub surrounded by walls. Bathtub replacement can be a good choice if your tub is beyond repair or if you want to change the overall look of your bathroom.

What Happens During a Replacement?

Bathtub replacement starts with demolition. Depending on your setup, your contractor may have to remove tile, drywall, or other bathroom fixtures to physically get your old tub out of its space. 

Once that’s done, they’ll:

• Prepare the Area: Once the old tub is gone, the space is cleaned and prepared for the new tub. This might involve fixing any structural issues or making adjustments to plumbing.
• Install the New Tub: The new bathtub is then installed, which might include setting it in place, attaching plumbing, and sealing it properly.
• Add Finishing Touches: After the tub is installed, any surrounding walls or tiles are replaced, and the area is sealed up to prevent leaks.

The Main Differences Between Refinishing and Replacement

Now that you know what bathtub refinishing and replacement mean, let’s break down the main factors that set them apart. 

1. Cost

Cost is one of the biggest deciding factors for many Utah homeowners.

• Refinishing: Typically, bathtub refinishing costs between $200 and $1000 according to HomeAdvisor data. The cost depends on your tub material, its condition, and the surface finish. Compare that to replacing, and refinishing is clearly the more budget-friendly choice.
• Replacement: On the other hand, bathtub replacement costs average anywhere from $1,900 to $10,000. Installation, demolition, plumbing, and material upgrades all add up. If you’re dreaming of a fancy soaker tub or a full bathroom renovation, be ready for the higher end of that range or more. 

2. Time

Although not as important as cost, some homeowners may think of how much time they want to spend on these projects. 

• Refinishing: Most professional bathtub refinishing projects are done in a day or two. Prep work, application, and curing all happen in a relatively short window. If you’re looking for a quick fix, this may be the better option for you.
• Replacement: But how long does it take to replace a bathtub? It’s not as small a job as refinishing. Depending on issues like plumbing adjustments or tile repair, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week. However, some contractors in Utah may offer same-day bathtub replacements, depending on your location and the requirements.  

3. Longevity

You may also want to consider which upgrade will pay for itself in the long run. 

• Refinishing: Like most homeowners, you must be wondering, “How long does refinishing a bathtub last?” Refinishing is a great temporary solution, but it’s not permanent. With proper care, the new finish can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, and maybe longer if you’re gentle with it. That said, it doesn’t compare to the lifespan of a brand-new tub.
• Replacement: If you buy a high-quality bathtub, you’re looking at 20-30 years of use, or even longer. Bathtub replacement is a long-term investment in the comfort, functionality, and look of your bathroom.

4. Environmental Impact

If you’re conscious of the environmental applications of each job, bathtub refinishing might be a better option. 

• Refinishing: Keeping your tub instead of tossing it into a landfill is a green choice. Bathtub refinishing also generates less waste, making it an excellent option for environmentally conscious Utah homeowners.
• Replacement: Bathtub replacement produces a lot of waste. From tearing out tiles to disposing of the old tub, it’s not the most eco-friendly option. However, choosing energy-efficient plumbing fixtures for your new tub can help offset some of the environmental impact.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Finally, we come down to one of the most critical factors: refinish or replacement – which one looks better? 

• Refinishing: Though it can dramatically improve the appearance of your tub, refinishing does have its limits. Deep scratches or extensive damage might still be slightly noticeable, even after the process. Plus, while the color can be changed, you can’t alter the overall shape of the tub.
• Replacement: If you want to completely customize your bathroom or upgrade to a modern style, bathtub replacement is the way to go. You can choose anything from a jetted tub to a clawfoot design or even a walk-in option for safety and ease.

So, which option should you go with? 

It all boils down to what you want. If your tub is still serviceable and you’re working with a smaller budget, refinishing can give your bathroom new life without breaking the bank. But if you’re ready for a complete bathroom remodel and want a tub that will last decades, replacement might be the better investment. 

If you’re still unsure, talk to a trusted bathroom remodeling expert. They can help you decide which is the best option and finish the job in a given timeframe. 

Wrapping Up

At the end of the day, your bathroom should be a place of comfort, relaxation, and functionality. Whether you choose bathtub refinishing or replacement, what matters most is that it meets your needs and fits within your budget.

And if you need help, we’re just a call away. At Lifespan Bath Remodel, we’ve worked with homeowners across Salt Lake City, St. George, and beyond to help them make these decisions. We’ll assess your tub, give honest recommendations, and get the job done.

Ready to transform your bathroom? Contact us today for a consultation!