5 Questions to Ask About Bathtub or Other Bath or Kitchen Surface Refinishing

Bathtub and other hard-surface bath or kitchen resurfacing or refinishing is an excellent way to revive the look of these essential spaces. Additionally, the job cuts down on the cost of a remodel by avoiding major removal and replacement work. However, the job isn't without its downsides. 

Hiring a professional countertop or bathtub refinisher near you will minimize missteps. Here are the bathtub refinishing questions to discuss with them, which also apply to refinishing other hard surfaces.

1. When do you need this work done?

The timing of a refinishing or resurfacing project is crucial for several reasons. First, you won't have access to the items being worked on for up to three days to allow time for the work and the curing process. Plus, resurfacing, frankly, stinks. The cleaners and solvents necessary have strong smells that require adequate room ventilation and air circulation. While this isn't an issue in moderate climates, ventilating a room and improving indoor air quality in winter can be challenging.

2. What is resurfacing?

Hard surface refinishing is not like painting, although some of the prep work (sanding and cleaning the surface) is the same. But resurfacing takes things a step further. The pro you hire will start by stripping off the glossy surface and performing repairs, like fixing chips or cracks, before the refinishing. Discussing all of the steps with your technician before work begins can help you understand the pricing variables and what to expect throughout the project.

3. Which fixtures or surfaces need resurfacing?

The type of bathtub or surface you need to be refinished or resurfaced will determine the necessary steps and job specifics. For example, resurfacing your kitchen sink will be somewhat intrusive, preventing the use of the sink area only, while refinishing the bathtub will render the entire bathroom off-limits until the work is complete. Different materials will also require unique preparation and refinishing steps, which may affect the project’s timeline and budget.

4. What needs to be done?

While it can be helpful, knowing specific details about how to resurface a bathtub or countertop may not be essential to you. However, having an overall understanding of the order of steps and how long each one takes is important. Because the resurfacing project can require you to leave your home to avoid the fumes, understanding what's happening throughout the project will help you plan around it.

5. How long will resurfacing last?

A professional countertop or bathtub refinishing project will last 15 years or more, as long as you follow maintenance instructions. Keeping the surface clean and free of mold or mildew is the best way to keep it looking good. However, if a chip or crack appears, contact your refinishing professional to inspect, isolate, and repair the problem as soon as possible to avoid further damage.