Get matched with top bathtub replacement pros in Clark, WY

Different bathtub materials have various advantages and disadvantages. Cast iron and copper are considered the most durable materials because they are dense and resistant to damage from scratches or dents. However, cast-iron tubs are heavy, expensive, and may not be suitable for upper floors. Copper offers unique benefits but requires regular chemical treatment to prevent a patina from forming, making cast iron a less maintenance-intensive option. Porcelain is a good second choice for durability. For those on a budget, acrylic is a popular option, though it is less durable.

We don’t recommend using a tub liner to cover up cracks in a bathtub. Instead, you should repair the cracks yourself if you have the experience or hire a pro. Cracks may seem like small surface imperfections, but they can lead to much larger issues, so repair them as soon as you can.

Whether replacing a bathtub with a shower affects your home's value depends on several factors, with the most significant being whether it's the only tub in the house. Removing the sole bathtub can lower a home's value because many prospective buyers, particularly families with young children or pets, require at least one.

However, a tub-to-shower conversion can also increase home value. A modern walk-in shower is often seen as an upgrade in a secondary bathroom and can be a desirable feature for its accessibility and style, appealing to older homebuyers or those without children. The overall impact is also influenced by your local real estate market and its typical buyer demographic.

If your bathroom layout allows, installing both a freestanding bathtub and a separate shower can be an ideal solution that appeals to the widest range of potential buyers.

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.