Home Improvement

How to Care for Your Bathtub and Decide If Reglazing is Needed in NYC

Bathtubs take a lot of wear and tear over the years. With regular cleaning and maintenance, you can keep your bathtub in good shape for decades. However, there comes a point when scratches, chips, fading, and stains make the tub look worn out. When this happens, you may want to consider bathtub reglazing in NYC.

Keeping Your Tub Clean

The key to making your bathtub last is proper care. You should clean it at least once a week by wiping down the surfaces using a soft cloth or sponge with a gentle cleaner. Avoid abrasive scouring powders or pads that can scratch the finish. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and wipe down to prevent soap scum buildup.

It also helps to use a shower curtain or doors to keep water from splashing outside of the tub area. Allowing water to stand on the surrounding surfaces can lead to water damage and mildew growth. Promptly sop up any spills or overflows.

Signs You May Need Bathtub Reglazing

Even with regular cleaning, normal wear eventually damages the original finish. Some signs it may be time for Bathtub Reglazing NYC include:

  • Visible scratches, chips or cracks in the surface
  • Areas where the original finish has worn off exposing porous material
  • Yellowing or staining that you cannot remove with cleaning
  • Fading and loss of glossy shine

If the bottom of your tub has become rough and porous feeling or you see any rust spots, it likely means moisture is seeping in underneath. This can cause more extensive damage if not addressed.

The Bathtub Reglazing Process

Bathtub reglazing involves spraying on a new glossy acrylic finish. A professional first prepares the surface by cleaning thoroughly and sanding. They apply bonding agents, then spray on several coats of durable finish. The reglazing materials are moisture-resistant to protect from future water damage.

The process enhances both aesthetics and function. It fills in scratches giving a smooth, glass-like finish that looks and feels brand new. Reglazing restores glossy color for a freshly painted look as well. Damaged areas are repaired making the tub water tight again.

Cost and Value of Reglazing

The cost to have your tub professionally reglazed ranges $300-$1000 depending on size and the amount of surface damage. Prices are significantly less than full bathtub replacement. Along with saving on replacement costs, you keep your existing tub layout. The value comes in extending your tub’s beauty and lifespan at only a fraction of replacement cost.

Considering all the use it gets, reglazing every 10-20 years is reasonable. Your shower or tub will come out looking like new! Investing just a bit ensures you can enjoy your tub for years to come.