With constant exposure to moisture and daily use, your bathtub takes a real beating over time. Small scratches and chips in the finish gradually make it look dull and dated. Discoloration from residue and stains can set in too. Rather than replacing the whole tub, bathtub refinishing in NYC can give it a fresh new look again.
Start With Deep Cleaning
Before assuming your tub needs a full refinish job, try a thorough deep cleaning first. Fill it with hot water and 4 cups each of vinegar and baking soda. Let soak for at least an hour, then scrub away any gunk and stains with a soft brush or cloth.
Try a mildew remover if you have black spots. Use an old toothbrush to get crevices clean. If this fails, move on to assessing a refinish. Harsh cleaners can damage the tub further so don’t over scrub areas with worn finish.
Signs of Wear Mean a Refinish is Needed
There are key signs that indicate when bathtub refinishing NYC is needed:
- Visible scratches, chips, or cracks exposing the underlying surface
- Areas where original finish has worn away causing roughness
- Yellowing discoloration that cleaning cannot remove
- Noticeable fading, especially comparing to adjacent tiles
- Loss of shine leaving a dull matte finish
If you see rust spots or the bottom feels rough and porous, moisture may be seeping underneath too. Addressing with a refinish prevents more costly damage.
What’s Involved in Bathtub Refinishing
Refinishing involves stripping away layers of the old finish completely down to the bare tub. Then new finish layers are built back up for a smooth and lustrous result. The process includes:
- Cleaning and sanding
- Applying bonding primers and fillers
- Spraying on acrylic-based layers for gloss and protection
- Curing each layer before adding the next
Skilled NYC pros carefully prepare the surface prior to spraying the new durable finish. Total refinish time is generally 1-2 days.
Cost Effectiveness of Bathtub Refinishing
Prices for refinishing in NYC range from approximately $350 to $1,500. The exact cost depends on tub size, refinishing products used, and how many finish layers are needed. There may be additional charges if extensive repairs are needed too.
Considering a full new tub replacement generally runs $2,000 to $5,000 installed, refinishing provides major cost savings. Along with the price difference, you also get to keep your current tub layout intact.
Given normal wear, plan on having your tub refinished every 10-15 years. Investing in refinishing pays off since you’ll gain a like-new bathtub again at only a fraction of full replacement cost.
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