The most prominent thing to be found in the majority of bathrooms is the bathtub. However, over time there are a number of things that can make it start looking ugly or if you are remodeling, it no longer matches the rest of the bathroom. 1. Indications that a Tub Needs Refinishing Things that indicate work needs to be done on a bathtub include the following: • Cracks • Chips • Discoloration • Scratches • Leaks • Color does not match surroundings Fortunately, it is now possible to refinish a bathtub and make it look new by using a process called Bathtub Refinishing/Re-Glazing. 2. Bathtub Replacement A big attraction for refinishing vs replacing a bathtub is the cost. The average cost for a basic bathtub installation is $1500 to $3000. This does not include the length of time required, relocating plumbing, disturbing family routine and the many other things which are often involved. Problems of complete replacement: • Tub usually must be re-aligned • There is wood dust in the air from wall joints • There is a great deal of noise • Job can take several days depending on job site, relocation, etc. • Tub cannot be used until installation is completed (can involve up to a week) • Excess materials must be disposed of 3. Advantages of Refinishing the Tub There are numerous advantages to refinishing your bathtub in Charlotte rather than replacing your bathtub. These include: • Can change color to match bathroom walls or accents • Bathtub surrounds remain in place • Work completed in a few hours • Bathtub can be used 24 hours after being refinished • Less expensive than replacement • Does not allow water between tub and wall which can happen if tub liners are used instead of refinishing • Tub refinishing surface can last 10 to 15 years • Works well with tubs located in alcoves, corners or other odd shaped locations 4. Refinishing Process Technicians who refinish bathtubs require a great deal of experience in order to do a job that is satisfactory and long-lasting. However, the entire refinishing process only requires the skills of one person so there are a number of installation problems avoided. These problems include a number of people going in and out of the house, loud noises such as hammering, hauling out debris. tearing out walls or flooring and so forth. When doing a refinishing job, an experienced technician employs the latest techniques and safety procedures as follows: • Dons a special protective suit and a respirator • Properly vents the bathroom • Masks surfaces around the tub, such as the surround, wall and floor • Removes caulk and applies hydrofluoric acid to the tub’s surface (This highly toxic acid dissolves the porcelain glaze and etches the surface so the new finish will stick). • Washes away the hydrofluoric acid and applies new caulk • Tub is dried by the use of a fan • Two coats of fast-drying primer epoxy are sprayed on the tub • Tub is cleaned to remove dust particle or other debris • 3 coats of white or colored Acrylic polyurethane finish sprayed. • Job finished – time elapsed approximately 4 hours At no time are the home’s residents subjected to fumes, loud noises or other things that can be especially annoying. 5. Contacting a Reputable Company As with any kind of work that involves people in and out of your home, it is essential that you employ a contractor that is established and has a good reputation. This will assure that your possessions are safe and you will be treated with the utmost courtesy at all times. Such a company will: • Be licensed, bonded and insured • Be willing to demonstrate before and after results of bathtub refinishing • Have highly trained employees • Explain the time required to complete the process • Be willing to come to your home, look at the job and provide a free estimate At Renov8 it has been our pleasure to serve customers in the Charlotte NC area for a number of years. We have been able to help restore bathtubs to their original appearance or, when desired, change them to a color that compliments new bathroom innovations. Give us a call today at 704-807-9764 and let us help you make your bathtub look like new again on your time schedule.