Over time, your
bathtub can definitely start showing its age. The years of use will start manifesting
themselves on your tub with gouges, scratches, chips and even burns. Now that you're tired of your old tub, what can be
done? You can buy a new bathtub, but you'll spend a quite a
bit:
* Bathtubs are not a small ticket item to begin with.
* Bathtub removal is
not trivial, so you will need to hire a professional.
* And of course, you have to pay a professional again to install the new
one.
* There can be a significant amount of time involved (days or even weeks), when
the bathtub will be completely unavailable.
There are are several
alternatives available to buying a new bathtub.
Alternatives To Replacing Your Bathtub
1. Bathtub Repainting: You can have your tub repainted. While DIY kits are available, it can be a tricky
process, so hiring someone is usually advisable. Even if you hire someone, this process is done within 24 hours and is quite
economical. It is a good way to give your tub a shiny new look, maybe even a
new color!
2. Bathtub Reglazing: This process essentially
puts a new surface on your tub, which can easily last another 20 years, with a
little care. Like painting,
this is usually done within 24 hours.
3. Liners For Your Tub: A new liner can
be installed over your tub, giving it a brand-new look within a few hours.
4. Bath Tub Surrounds: While this does not do anything to the tub itself, the
area around it looks better.
There are several
easier and cheaper alternatives to replacing a tub, but sometimes, it is simply
the best choice.