Question 1

How do bathtub liners work?

Accepted Answer

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A bathtub liner is a one-piece insert that goes on top of your tub to conceal cracks, blemishes, and discoloration. Liners are made from acrylic or PVC plastic. It’s best to purchase a custom bathtub liner that matches your existing tub's size, shape, and contours, but premade liners are less expensive and also get the job done. Some bathtub liners come with a wall or shower surround to refurbish the area above the bathtub.

Question 2

What is the difference between bathtub refinishing and reglazing?

Accepted Answer

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Bathtub refinishing refers to the entire process of resurfacing a bathtub. Reglazing is one step in the bathtub refinishing process. To refinish a bathtub, a refinishing professional will clean the tub, protect the surrounding areas, remove the existing glaze, sand and prepare the surface, apply the new glaze coating, caulk the tub, and replace the fixtures.

Question 3

Which is better—an acrylic or fiberglass tub?

Accepted Answer

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Of the two most common and affordable bathtub materials, acrylic is notably better. Though fiberglass is cheaper, it is also more prone to scratching, chipping, fading, and cracking. Acrylic holds up better to wear and tear, cleaning, and sun exposure; the slight cost increase is usually worth the increased longevity.

Question 4

How do I know if my tub is fiberglass or acrylic?

Accepted Answer

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There are a few ways to check whether your tub is fiberglass or acrylic. If your tub is a color other than white, then your tub is likely acrylic (as fiberglass tubs are usually white). Check to see if there is discoloration on the bottom of the tub, because if it’s yellowed, then you can be fairly sure it’s fiberglass.

Also, fiberglass tubs have thinner edges and are cool to the touch. Acrylic, on the other hand, is either room temperature or warm to the touch.

Question 5

Should I refinish or replace my bathtub?

Accepted Answer

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If your bathtub is in overall good shape with minor scratches, discoloration, or just general wear and tear, it's best (and less expensive) to refinish it.

If your tub has large cracks, is leaking, or is otherwise severely damaged, we recommend replacing it with a new bathtub. Refinishing a bathtub can only fix superficial problems, so these issues will still be present or reappear after a refinishing.