Makeover Your Old Tub and Tile for a Fraction of the Cost of Buying New

Makeovers are the rage today. Dozens of home improvement television shows, magazines, and even cable networks are devoted to redecorating and remodeling. Experts tell us what we should have, what color to make it and how to do it. Unfortunately for many, the money for makeovers doesn't come as easily, especially for a bathroom remodel. The cost of removing and replacing the avocado green bathtub and pink tile surround can cost several thousand dollars, not to mention the time it takes.

Do You Need to Save Money?

If you want a new look for your bathroom, but don't want to spend thousands of dollars remodeling, then refinishing is your best value. Removing and replacing a bathtub can cost as much as $3,000. With refinishing, you only pay about 15 percent of the cost of replacement. And anyone who has ever replaced the tiles or sink in their bathroom knows the mess and hassle of demolition, as well as the hole it can put in their wallet.

Do You Need to Save Time?

Refinishing a tub can take as little as four hours. You can shower or bathe the very next day. Replacing a tub, however, can take weeks, when you factor in the time to rip out your old tub, tear out walls and plumbing, and install the new tub, plumbing and fixtures.

Is a Refinished Tub Durable?

Refinished tubs or ceramic tiles can easily last 10 to 15 years or more when the right process and bonding is used. A new porcelain bathtub may last a few years longer, but the cost of a new tub alone can be nearly triple the cost of refinishing. Not only is it more cost-effective, many refinishers are also able to provide extras, like slip-resistant surfaces and custom colors.