Cost comparison of bathtub refinishing (professional and DIY kits), bathtub liners and bathtub replacement options to use when deciding what to do with your bath tub.

When faced with the decision of what to do about an unsightly bathtub, you have few options. You can rip out and replace the bathtub, you can refinish the tub (yourself or hire someone), or you can put in a tub liner. In order to assist you with the decision; a bathtub refinishing cost comparison is in order.

Bathtub Refinishing Cost Evaluation

Professional Bathtub Tub Refinishing Cost – Professional bathtub refinishing costs range between two hundred and six hundred dollars (approximately). The final bathtub refinishing cost will depend on the resurfacing system used and the extent of repair your bath tub needs. Professional bathtub refinishing is the preferred method to revitalize your bathtub surface.

Several resurfacing systems are available that have good consumer reviews. One popular system is the Miracle Method of bathtub refinishing. Cost for this varies but usually is in the five hundred dollar range. The work is warranted and done by licensed franchise operators in your area.

Do It Yourself Bathtub Refinishing Kit Cost – Bathtub refinishing cost for those on a tight budget can be reduced greatly by using one of the bathtub refinishing kits on the market. The average bathtub refinishing kit costs between fifty and one hundred dollars. You will also need to purchase a respirator, chemical resistant gloves, paintbrush and protective painting supplies such as tape and plastic.

You do not need any prior skills but will need to follow the instructions included with the bathtub refinishing kit to the letter. Done properly, you can save a great deal of money (hundreds to thousands of dollars). When a bathtub refinishing kit is not used according to the directions; you can end up with a mess and have to replace the tub anyway. Pay attention to the directions closely.

Bathtub Liner Cost – Bathtub liners are made to fit your tub and are a rubber liner that fits inside your tub. Consumer satisfaction reports are low for this refinishing choice. The main problem with a bath tub liner is the cost (which can be much more than bathtub refinishing costs) and the fact that water can get trapped behind the liner and mildew.

Harmful bacteria (staph), oils and soaps can also become lodged behind the liner. This can cause sanitation and health hazards, along with causing further deterioration of the tubs surface.
Bathtub Replacement Cost

The cost to remove an old tub and replace it with a new one is expensive and time consuming. Since this is considered a major renovation; unless you are experienced with do it yourself projects or knowledgeable about construction; it is best to hire a professional contractor to do this job for you.

The end cost can reach two to three thousand dollars (or more) in some cases. Unless your bathtub has serious cracks or crevices that can’t be prepared, you may want to avoid bathtub replacement due to cost reasons.

This information should give you some idea of which route you would like to take. Depending on your budget and needs, bathtub refinishing cost can run anywhere from fifty dollars (DIY kit) all the way to over a thousand dollars (replacement).