Tub Reglazers (Refinishers)

Artem Tugbaev Last updated: Feb. 06, 2025

Do you like DIY projects? Maybe you want to save money and have the feeling of accomplishment that comes from tackling a home improvement project that adds value to your home or fixes a pesky problem. But not all projects should be taken on by beginners. Which work should be trusted to professionals?

Some jobs need special tools or supplies that aren’t readily available or affordable. Perhaps the work requires skills, knowledge or experience that takes time to learn or acquire. Even projects that appear to be simple and have available DIY kits may end up being more time-consuming and complicated than they appear to be.

Bathtub refinishing falls into that category. There are lots of videos, websites and kits directed at consumers advertising a quick and easy process for property owners to save money. But is it really advisable to take on a bathtub reglazing project with no prior knowledge or experience?

Let’s take a look at the various steps in the process to get a realistic idea of What is involved.

Bathtub Reglazing – the Materials and Process

The most popular material for bathtub refinishing is liquid acrylic, and with good reason. It’s a modern, effective solution that effectively repairs and renews bathtubs that are worn out, faded or damaged and restores them to their original luster.

To get the best results, careful surface preparation is essential. The existing finish needs to be completely removed to ensure adhesion. The surface must be evened out by sanding and then completely cleaned, sanitized and dried. Any damage needs to be repaired and the surface smoothed.

The refinisher needs to have knowledge not only of preparation and reglazing techniques but also basic plumbing since the faucet, stopper and drain may need to be removed and replaced.

The acrylic material needs to be mixed in precise amounts, for the correct amount of time, and using the proper technique. The material is then applied using the pour-on method pour-on method to ensure a smooth, uniform finish. Any deviation can result in inferior results, leaving a less than desirable appearance and reduced durability.

Professional refinishing specialists with the necessary training and experience will give each step careful attention to ensure that the end result is a beautiful, long-lasting finish that’s strong and durable.

Bathtub Refinishing in process — Bathtub Refinishing In Process

But how do you find a trustworthy, skilled technician? Internet, social media, television and radio all abound with advertisers claiming to give the best service and the lowest price. Let’s discuss how to cut through all the noise and make the best choice for your home.

Bathtub Reglazers on Yelp, Angi, Thumbtack and other platforms

Yelp, Angi, Thumbtack and other services are common places for customers to start their search for home improvement and other projects. They can be useful because they allow you to refine and filter your search based on location, price, customer ratings, etc.

Companies have their contact information readily available, so it’s easy to get in touch with a contractor to get an estimate or schedule work. It seems to be a convenient way to get your project done. But choosing a bathtub refinisher based simply on price or advertising can be fraught with dangers.

Well-written ads with attractive graphics may give the impression of reliability and professionalism, but that’s not necessarily the case. The contractor may have a nice-looking brand but few skills and limited experience to back up their work.
Fly-by-night businesses aren’t established in the area, and they can disappear as quickly as they appear, leaving you with substandard work and no recourse.
Without a written guarantee, your hard earned money can be gone if the work fails to stand the test of time.
Contractors are basically strangers that you invite into your home to do work for you. You want to make sure they are trustworthy and reliable.

For bathtub reglazing, your best bet is to hire a company that specializes in that line of work. So what should you look for in a bathtub refinishing company?

Look for companies with high ratings and read reviews from satisfied customers. Pay attention to details of why they recommend a certain company and what they liked most about their experience. Highly rated companies care about their reputation, so they are careful to hire only the best craftsmen.
Friends, neighbors or family members may be able to give you references. Ask specific questions to be sure the company will be a good fit for your own project.
Look for companies that hire highly-trained specialists with extensive experience.
Companies that deal directly with manufacturers have the advantage of offering you a better price and the most up-to-date products. Their technicians also have training to keep current on new products, application techniques and trends.
Companies with several specialists have more flexibility in scheduling, so they’re able to work around your schedule and can usually start work sooner.
For your own protection, make sure you have a written guarantee for the work.

New York Tubs hires only the best craftsmen with extensive training and experience. We have dozens of 5-star reviews from happy customers that are thrilled with our friendly, personalized service and outstanding results. Our mission is to provide you with a safe, comfortable experience and a superior outcome.