Over time, your bathtub can definitely start showing its age. It is not surprising to see tubs with scratches, cracks, gouges or even burns! So, you've decided to finally do something about it. The easiest choice is to buy a new tub, but there are some drawbacks:
* Bathtubs are not a small ticket item to begin with.
* You will need to pay a professional to remove the old tub.
* Similarly, bathtub installation requires some skill, so you will probably need to hire someone again.
* The removal and installation process is time consuming, sometimes taking a couple of weeks, so you will not be able to use your tub.
Before you buy a new bathtub, examine some of the other choices available.
Alternatives To Buying New Bathtubs
1. Repainting: You can repaint your tub or have someone do it for you. Kits for doing it yourself are available, but if you're not handy, it would be better to find a pro. Even if you hire someone, this process is done within 24 hours and is quite economical. This is an easy way to give your bathtub a great new look.
2. Bathtub Reglazing: Refinishing your tub gives it a new surface which can last 20 years or more. Like painting, this is usually done within 24 hours.
3. Liners For Your Tub: A liner, or new outer surface, is another quick way to make your tub look great.
4. Bathtub Surrounds: These are walls around the tub, so they do not actually do anything to improve the bathtub itself, but instead dress up the surrounding area.
Very often, one of the above alternatives will work just fine, but sometimes, nothing but replacing the tub completely will work.
Rob Barnes writes for Bathtubs For You, a consumer guide to help you select, buy and maintain bathtubs, covering topics such as
bathtub inserts,
bathtub repair kits and
bathtub repair.
