As opposed to replacing your bathtub, countertops, or cabinets, you will save anywhere from 50-75% by refinishing your bathtub, tile, sink, cabinets, or countertop surfaces; normally, tub removal and replacement costs average $2,000 to $5,000! The cost of refinishing a tub is normally under $500.
Bathtub refinishing also known as bathtub resurfacing, bathtub reglazing or bathtub re-enameling, is the process of refreshing the surface of a worn, damaged bathtub to a like-new condition. This process involves removing the drain and repairing any damaged areas, including checking to see if the bathtub holds water after draining. Chips or cracks are repaired using Bondo or another type of polyester putty. After repairs are made the surface is prepped, wet sanded and cleaned. Porcelain, enamel, and fiberglass tubs are non-porous and do not provide a good substrate for the new coating to attach to. Etching the surface provides a porous surface that will allow proper adhesion. After preparing the surface, Prior to spraying any chemical coatings, refinishers will protect the jobsite by completely masking the areas that can be affected by overspray and setting up a professional exhaust system to work with the type of coating system being applied. Finally, a catalyzed two-component cross-link synthetic white coating is applied.
Countertop resurfacing requires the use of chemicals to bond a new surface to the old. First, the surface is cleaned thoroughly to remove grease, residue, and stuck-on substances. Then we fill in scratches, chips, and cracks to create a smooth surface countertop. A bonding agent is applied so the new chemicals adhere to the existing countertop. The area is prepped and ventilated as much as possible during the countertop resurfacing process. The customer has the option of solid colors, surfaces with random speckles, or finishes that emulate stone. No matter which option is selected, the price is significantly less than complete countertop replacement, saving potentially 50 percent off replacement cost.
Cabinet refacing involves the replacement of the cabinet exterior shell. It usually includes replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, while applying a new veneer over the existing surface of the cabinet boxes. The hardware (hinges, handles and drawer pulls) are usually also replaced during refacing. Cabinet refacing can save up to 70% as compared to replacing an entire cabinet system.