Learn the differences between tub liners and bathtub refinishing/resurfacing so that you can make the best decision for your home.
Tub Liners
Bathtub liners are essentially thin acrylic bathtubs that have been pre-molded to shape, which are installed over the top of an exiting bathtub. They cannot be used in place of a bathtub because they lack any of the structural components of a normal bathtub. Which is why they must be installed over a preexisting bathtub. Tub liners are made with high quality and high gloss acrylic.
Tub Liner Pros:
Cleaning - They are easy to clean. Usually just some soapy water and a wash cloth will do the trick.
Aesthetics - They retain their color for a long time and if you follow proper cleaning protocols they can look
Quick installation. Most installs take a few hours and in some cases is usable the same day.
They can make a damaged bathtub space usable without removing the old bathtub.
Tub Liner Cons:
Price - Depending on the quality and fit of the tub liner they can cost between $1,200 and $3,500.
Durability - Since the tub liner has no structural backing it is susceptible to cracking if the liner does not have a close fit to the original tub. Generally speaking, the higher the cost of the liner, the better the fit that you will get.
Also, there are two different methods of installing liners. The cheaper and faster method is to adhere the liner to the original tub with some two sided tape strips. But the better and more costly method is to epoxy the liner to the original bathtub. This lessens the chance for gaps, which could lead to cracks.
Limitations - Due the the way a tub liner is formed, they are currently only made for porcelain steel and porcelain cast iron bathtubs. Even within the limited type of bathtubs, there are still thousand of different models that have been made over the years. If you have a unique porcelain bathtub, then there may not be a liner for it.
Availability - Tub liners are usually made to fit your specific bathtub. Depending on backlog and shipping, average wait time to get your liner installed from the time you order, is between 2 weeks and a month.
Bathtub Refinishing or Resurfacing
Bathtub refinishing is the process of taking a liquid coating and applying it to the existing tub. After the curing time, the new coating will function as a normal bathtub. Coatings may be made with different chemicals, but the end results are very similar.
Bathtub Refinishing Pros:
Price - Tub refinishing or resurfacing is by far the cheapest option for getting more life out of a distressed bathtub. Price typically ranges from $450 - $650 for most home bathtubs. For more info see our Price Guide.
Aesthetics - With minimal effort you can modernize an out of date bathtubs and even restore a damaged bathtub to like new condition.
Availability - Since bathtub refinishing is just a process of applying a coat to your bathtub, it is usually only limited by backlog. Some companies may be booked out upwards of a month. But must refinishing jobs are done within a week or two of the time you book.
Versatility - Since bathtub refinishing is a liquid coating, it can be applied to just about any type of bathtub, it can also be applied to shower, sinks and countertops. For more details see What Can Be Refinished.
Reapplication - Once a refinishing coating reaches the end of life, the original item can often be refinished again. Certain materials can be refinished indefinitely as long as proper care is done each time.
Bathtub Refinishing Cons:
Structural Durability - Since bathtub refinishing or resurfacing is a coating, it generally does not add any structural benefit. If you have a badly damage tub, shower or sink, then it may be beyond repair. While most chips and small cracks can be repaired, larger issues must be carefully assessed.
Chemical Limitations - Bathtub refinishing coatings are susceptible to staining from dyes and even loss of gloss from harsher products. Chemical damage such as this can be permanent to the coating and often leads to the voiding of the warranty.
Surface Durability - While the bathtub refinishing coating is designed to withstand the occasional dropped shampoo bottle, the coats are not designed to withstand sharp or heavy objects. Due to this, certain limitations are often imposed by the refinishing company. A common example is no bathing pets in a refinished bathtub.
In the end, the decision between a tub liner and bathtub refinishing or resurfacing can be a tough one. Choosing between tub liners and bathtub refinishing depends on your budget, timeline, and the condition of your existing tub.
Choose Tub Liners if:
You want a long-lasting solution and don’t mind paying a higher price.
Your bathtub has significant cracks or damage that refinishing can’t fix.
You prefer minimal disruption during installation.
Choose Bathtub Refinishing if:
You’re looking for a cost-effective way to give your bathroom a fresh look.
Your tub is in good structural condition but needs cosmetic improvement.
You want a quick solution that doesn’t involve complex installation.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
If you are still unsure what is best for your home, then we recommend contacting us and providing us with some pictures and details about your existing bathtub. Whether you choose to have us refinish your bathtub or you go with a tub liner company, Bath Refinishing Resource aims to give you the best advice for your individual needs.
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