Get matched with top bathtub restoration pros in Cat Creek, MT

Refinishing a bathtub is worth it if your tub has minor damage or is a color that you don't like. The cost of replacing a bathtub is more expensive than simply refinishing one, averaging around $5,300. It's more cost-effective to refinish your tub if you can, but it also gives you the look of a new bathtub without having to replace the whole thing.

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

Resurfacing a bathtub is less expensive than replacing one. Resurfacing a tub costs about $330 to $630, depending on the material, while replacing a tub costs an average of $4,150. But remember that resurfacing is a temporary solution for a worn-out tub, and you may need to refinish a tub every few years to keep it looking new.

Surprisingly, cleaning an air bath is almost as easy as relaxing in one. Most air baths have a self-cleaning or drying cycle to remove moisture from the inner tubing. This prevents mold and keeps the tub ready for your next soaking session. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and a soft cloth to wipe the surfaces and periodically clean the air jets as the manufacturer recommends.