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Refinishing or installing a tub liner comes down to your personal preference, budget, and timeline. It costs $480 to refinish a tub, and it takes about six hours. In comparison, installing a liner costs between $800 and $1,000 and takes about a day or less, including plumbing fixtures.

There are a few signs, both obvious and not so obvious, that it's time to refinish your bathtub. While some of these signs aren't an urgent problem, others could lead to significant damage if left untreated. Signs you should look out for include:

• Rust stains, which signal the tub's enamel or surface sealer is deteriorating 

• Small chips, which can grow into larger chunks and can lead to rusting

• Discoloration, which doesn't lead to a more significant problem but can be unsightly 

• Dirty surfaces, which means that the tub glaze is breaking down and allowing dirt to seep below the coating

Yes, you can use Epsom salt in a refinished bathtub. The salt will not harm the new glaze finish chemically, although it may rough up the surface finish a bit. Consult a professional bathtub refinisher prior to using Epsom salt on your bathtub to ensure it won’t damage its finish.

The reglazed tub won’t last as long as a brand-new bathtub. Professional reglazing jobs can only last up to 15 years.

According to most pros, you can only reglaze a tub once or twice. So, if you’ve already reglazed your tub once, it might not be a realistic solution.

Some chemicals used in reglazing a bathtub can be dangerous to your health. If you’re DIYing the project, ensure the room is ventilated, and always wear a mask. If you hire a contractor, make sure you get the clearance to use the bathroom again.