Tub or Bath Resurfacing: An Excellent Option, By Stu Silverman

Is your bathtub or shower worn out and looking shabby? Do you have original bathroom fixtures and counters from the 60's or 70's in those outdated colors? Are you living with the previous owner's decorating scheme? Have you put off remodeling your bathroom because of the high cost or the disruption during the work? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, it may be time to resurface the tub, tiles and countertop in your bathroom.

Resurfacing can make it look like brand new

Some people say there's nothing like a newly remodeled bathroom. And they're partly right. Of course, a completely remodeled bathroom has its advantages, but you'd be surprised how resurfacing existing fixtures and countertops (and a maybe a paint job) can rejuvenate a bathroom with a whole new look - at a fraction of the cost of remodeling.

Save money, time and hassle

The average cost of replacing a bathtub is between $2,000 to $3,000, but you can refinish it in your choice of colors for about one fifth that amount. And with refinishing you don't have the mess, hassle and added expense of demolition, including plumbing, and replacing or repairing the walls and floors around tub which are damaged during removal.

Refinishing also saves time. Refinishing a tub can take four or five hours and you can shower or bathe in it the next day. And you can refinish the other fixtures, countertops and tiles in a matter of days. Replacing a tub can take weeks - and if it's your only bathtub, that can add up to a whole lot of inconvenience.

Resurfacing can repair chips and cracks

Sure, a new tub can last many years, but a refinished tub can last 15 to 20 years, or more with proper maintenance (see below). Refinishing is also an ideal solution for repairing small chips and cracks in fixtures that are otherwise in good condition. Judith from Easthampton, Mass., is still satisfied with the look and feel of her refinished tub. "It's been approximately 14 years - my tub still looks good and is easy to clean. Before refinishing it was pitted, porous and impossible to clean."

Can be used on many surfaces

Refinishing can have amazing results on a variety of surfaces, including porcelain, cultured marble, ceramic and fiberglass. But it must be done with the right materials and techniques. Be sure to ask how long the resurfacing company has been in business, and check references from jobs done at least three years ago. Newer resurfacing jobs will all look great and you won't see how they wear over time. Also, many resurfacing companies offer warranties, so before hiring a refinishing contractor, take into account how they guarantee their work.

Resurfacing existing fixtures and countertops can rejuvenate a bathroom with a whole new look - at a fraction of the cost of remodeling.

BONUS: How to care for your refinished surfaces

It is recommended to use cleaning products developed especially for tubs and tiles. Avoid cleaners that contain bleach, citrus or any type of abrasives. Citrus products and industrial strength cleaners contain acids that can etch your refinishing over time, and bleach can cause discoloration. Use a sponge or soft cloth when wiping the refinished bathtub or tile surface. Never use green scrub pads or products such as Comet, Ajax or SoftScrub, as these will scratch the finish.

Avoid using any type of suction-mounted products like soap dishes, and especially suctioned bathtub mats. Over time they will pull off the coating. Also, it is best to avoid bathing dogs or cats in a resurfaced tub, as their claws can damage the finish. If you have no alternative, use a soft rubber pad or bathtub mat and try to be very careful. And make sure all children's bath toys are made of soft rubber or plastic. Metal can scratch the surface.