Bathtub Refinishing: The Ultimate Guide

When your bathtub’s looking a bit worse for wear - maybe the enamel’s chipped, or the colour’s taken on a strange yellow hue - you’ve got two options: rip it out entirely, or give it a new lease of life. That’s where bathtub refinishing (also called resurfacing or reglazing) comes in. It’s a clever, cost-effective solution that might just save your bathroom and your wallet.

But is it really worth it? How long does it last? And what does it actually involve? Let’s get into all of that - and more - in this ultimate guide.

What is bathtub refinishing?

Bathtub refinishing is the process of restoring the surface of an old, damaged, or outdated bath. Rather than replacing the whole unit (which can be messy, pricey, and involve more plumbing than anyone wants), refinishing applies a new coating to the existing tub - making it look brand new.

It works on most common materials - acrylic, porcelain, enamel, and even fibreglass. Though we should say, if your tub is badly cracked or leaking, refinishing probably isn’t the magic fix you're after. In those cases, replacement is the better shout.

The bathtub refinishing process

So what actually happens during refinishing? Well, it's a little more involved than slapping on some paint and hoping for the best.

Step 1: Cleaning and prepping

The bath is thoroughly cleaned - every last bit of soap scum, body oil, and old product residue is scrubbed away. This part’s essential because the new coating needs a perfectly smooth surface to adhere to.

Step 2: Sanding and repairing

Next, the existing surface is sanded down to create a slightly rough texture. Any chips, scratches, or dings are filled in (so if you’ve dropped your shampoo bottle one too many times, you’re covered).

Step 3: Priming and coating

Once the repairs are done, a primer goes on - usually a bonding agent - and then several layers of a durable coating, typically an epoxy or polyurethane blend. This is what gives the tub its sleek, glossy, like-new finish.

Step 4: Curing time

Here’s where you’ll need a bit of patience. The coating needs time to cure - usually around 24 to 48 hours. Longer is better, honestly. We’d say wait a full 72 hours before jumping back in.

Bathtub refinishing cost: Is it worth it?

Ah yes, the big question. So how much does bathtub refinishing cost in the UK?

Prices can vary depending on the company and the condition of your bath, but you’re typically looking at somewhere between £200 and £500. Compared to the £1,000+ you might spend on a new bath (not including installation or plumbing adjustments), that’s quite the saving.

Of course, DIY kits exist. They’re cheaper - usually under £100 - but come with risks. You really need a well-ventilated space, the right tools, and a lot of patience. We think most people are better off getting the pros in.

How long does a refinished tub last?

A well-done refinishing job can last 10 to 15 years, especially if you take care of it. That means:

• Avoiding abrasive cleaners (no scouring pads, please)
• Not using bathmats with suction cups (they can trap water and damage the coating)
• Being gentle with heavy objects (don’t chuck the shampoo bottle across the room)

Basically, treat your tub kindly and it’ll return the favour.

Can any tub be refinished?

In theory, yes - most tubs can be refinished. But there are exceptions.

If your bath is extremely damaged (say, a big crack or signs of mould underneath), refinishing won’t solve the problem - it’ll just cover it up. And that never ends well. In those cases, you might be better off replacing the bath entirely.

If you're going down the replacement route, don’t forget to consider the rest of the bath area too. It’s also a good idea to discover panel materials and styles that’ll suit your new tub - because let’s be honest, mismatched panels and tubs never look right.

What about colour?

Here’s a fun one - not many people realise you can change the colour of your tub during refinishing. Always wanted a matte black bath? Or something soft like cream or pale grey? It’s absolutely doable, though do keep in mind that custom colours can bump up the cost a bit.

Still, it’s a brilliant way to update your bathroom’s style without going full renovation mode.

Pros and cons of bathtub refinishing

Let’s quickly weigh up the main pros and cons.

Pros:

• Much cheaper than replacing your bath
• Faster, cleaner, and less disruptive
• Extends the life of your existing tub
• Can change colour and fix small damage

Cons:

• Not suitable for badly damaged tubs
• DIY kits are tricky to use well
• Finish can chip if not properly maintained
• Needs curing time (no spontaneous bubble baths, sorry)

So, should you refinish your bathtub?

If your tub’s structurally sound but just looks a bit sad - maybe the finish is dull, the colour outdated, or there are a few small chips - bathtub refinishing is a fantastic option. It’s budget-friendly, environmentally smart (less waste, fewer new materials), and can genuinely transform your bathroom in a day.

Just make sure to choose a reputable professional, follow care tips post-refinish, and give the coating enough time to cure properly.

Final thoughts

Bathtub refinishing isn’t for everyone - but when it’s done right, it can absolutely breathe new life into your space. Whether you're prepping your home for sale, renting out a property, or just trying to enjoy your daily soak a bit more, it’s worth considering before you break out the sledgehammer.

And hey - if the tub’s getting a makeover, maybe the rest of your bathroom deserves a bit of attention too? From taps to panels, the right finishing touches can make all the difference..