How to Choose the Right Bathtub Refinishing Contractor in NYC

Finding a bathtub refinishing company in New York City can feel overwhelming—Yelp ads, “lowest price” offers, and contractors promising same-day miracles. But bathtub reglazing is a coating job, and coatings are all about surface prep, product quality, and technique. If any step is rushed, the finish can peel, discolor, or fail early.

This guide shows exactly what to look for so you hire a contractor who delivers a smooth, durable finish—not a quick cover-up.

When Bathtub Refinishing Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

Best fit

Refinishing is a great option when your tub is:

• worn, dull, stained, or yellowed
• chipped or scratched
• outdated but structurally sound

Check first

You should consider replacement if the tub is:

• severely rusted through
• flexing/cracked due to subfloor issues
• leaking or damaged beyond surface repair

DIY Kits vs. Professional Reglazing: What’s Really Different?

What a Professional Process Should Include

A reputable bathtub refinishing contractor should clearly describe their workflow. At a minimum, expect:

• Surface preparation (the most important step)

  – removing contaminants (soap scum, oils, waxes, residues)
  – sanding/etching to create proper adhesion
  – thorough cleaning, drying, and masking

• Chip and damage repair

  – repairing chips and pits
  – feathering and smoothing repairs so they disappear under the finish

• Correct mixing + application

  Coatings must be mixed precisely and applied using the right method for the product system. If the ratio, working time, or technique is wrong, you’ll see:

  – dull spots or orange peel
  – soft finish that scratches
  – premature peeling near the drain or waterline

• Hardware handling

  Many tubs require careful handling of:

  – drain/stopper components
  – overflow cover
  – caulking lines (often removed and replaced after curing)

  A good contractor won’t “paint around” parts that should be removed or protected.

The NYC Checklist: How to Vet a Contractor Before You Book

• Ask for real before-and-after photos (not stock images)

  Look for:

  – sharp, well-lit photos (not blurry)
  – consistent gloss
  – smooth walls and corners
  – clean lines around drain and overflow

  Bonus: Ask for a similar tub material to yours (porcelain, cast iron, fiberglass).

• Read reviews the right way

  Don’t just look at star rating—scan reviews for:

  – durability over time (mentions months/years later)
  – punctuality and professionalism
  – cleanliness and masking quality
  – how the company handles issues if they happen

  A few negative reviews aren’t always a deal breaker—what matters is patterns and how the company responds.

• Get the warranty in writing

  If a contractor won’t give a written guarantee, that’s a red flag. A written warranty shows they stand behind both the product system and workmanship.

• Confirm they specialize in reglazing (not “we do everything”)

  In NYC, many “handyman” listings offer refinishing as a side service. Reglazing is its own trade. You want a company that does this every day—not once a month.

• Ask what coating system and method they use

  A professional should be able to explain their material and method in plain English—and why it works.

• Make sure they’re licensed and insured

  Especially for co-ops, condos, and managed buildings in NYC, insurance documentation is often required. Confirm they can provide what your building needs.

Platforms Like Yelp, Angi, and Thumbtack: Helpful, But Not Enough

Use platforms to build a shortlist—but do your own vetting with photos, process questions, and written warranty.

A Simple Question That Reveals a Lot

Ask any contractor:

“What steps do you take to prevent peeling near the drain and waterline?”

If the answer is vague (“We do it all the time, it’s fine”), move on. A real professional will talk about prep, adhesion, film build, curing time, and how they handle water exposure.

Why Homeowners Choose New York Tubs

New York Tubs focuses specifically on bathtub and shower refinishing in NYC. We use a modern professional system and a controlled application process designed to produce:

• a smooth, glossy, uniform finish

• strong adhesion and durability

• clean masking and careful detail work

You’ll also get clear expectations, written warranty options, and straightforward scheduling.

Want a quote? Send us a couple photos of your tub (wide shot + close-up of any damage), and we’ll recommend the best approach.