Refinish vs replace

Renovation projects are rarely “simple”

A bathtub replacement often turns into a multi-day job with demolition, plumbing work, and tile repairs. Refinishing (reglazing, resurfacing) is the faster alternative — especially in Chicago apartments and older bathrooms where cast iron and steel tubs are the norm. With our pour-on, self-leveling system most projects are done in a single visit and ready to use in about 24 hours.

The hidden costs

Why replacement costs more than people expect

The price is usually more than just the new fixture. Replacement often includes:

Removing and hauling away the old tub — cast iron is especially heavy
Moving fixtures through hallways, stairwells, and tight door frames
Tile, drywall, or flooring repairs around the tub
Plumbing adjustments — drain, overflow, valves, supply lines
New faucet, shower head, and trim if needed
Days of downtime while several trades finish the job

It adds up fast — and the bathroom can be out of service much longer than planned.

Bathtub replacement — demolition and tile work

How refinishing compares

Same tub, new surface — no demolition

Lower total cost

A fraction of replacement — no demo, no plumber, no tile work.

Less disruption

No construction mess. The rest of the bathroom stays usable.

Faster turnaround

One visit, 3–4 hours on site. Ready to use in about 24 hours.

Lasting finish

A clean, glossy surface that lasts for years with proper care.

Not all refinishing is the same. There are different methods on the market, including paint-style spray coatings. We use a pour-on, self-leveling system designed to create a smooth, uniform finish with strong adhesion — the right fit for cast iron and steel tubs across Chicago.

PricingTransparent, all-in pricing

OUR SIGNATURE SERVICE

Bathtub Refinishing

Pour-On Method
Ready in 24 hours
Low-odor • Low-VOC

STARTING AT: $435 *tax included

GET A QUOTE

Add-onsAdditional services

Travel fee Varies

Previously refinished Included

Caulking $25

Sliding door removal $35

Sliding door install $75

Tub typesWhat kind of bathtubs do we work with?

Acrylic Bathtubs

Steel Bathtubs

Cast Iron Bathtubs

Stone Bathtubs

Jacuzzi

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

How much does bathtub refinishing cost in Chicago?

Most standard bathtubs start from $435. Final pricing is based primarily on your location/drive time, and can also vary if extra prep is needed (for example, previous coatings or heavy wear).

Is refinishing cheaper than replacing a tub?

In most cases, yes. Replacement often requires demolition, hauling, plumbing adjustments, and sometimes tile or drywall repair. Refinishing restores the existing tub surface with far less labor and downtime.

How long does a refinished tub last?

Time

With proper care, a professionally refinished surface can last 7–15 years, depending on use and maintenance.

Is your method spray paint?

No. We use a pour-on, self-leveling coating system (not paint-style spray coatings). The goal is a smooth, uniform finish with strong adhesion.

Is there a warranty?

Guarantee

Yes — we provide a 5-year warranty on our work.

Pricing factors

What affects the cost?

Several things can change the total price:

Tub condition — staining, heavy wear, chips, peeling, rust, deep etching
Previous coatings — older coatings may need extra prep or removal
Tub type and shape — standard alcove, clawfoot, unusual sizes
Bathroom access — tight spaces add prep and protection time
Add-ons — sliding door removal, caulking

Send 1–2 photos and we can usually confirm the price within a few hours.

What affects the cost of bathtub refinishing

What’s included

A typical refinishing service

Every tub is different, but most projects include the same six steps.

Cleaning and degreasing

Soap scum, lime scale, and residue come off first — nothing bonds to a dirty surface.

Surface prep

Weakened layers are removed and the surface is profiled for adhesion.

Chip and imperfection repair

Minor chips, rust spots, and rough areas are filled and leveled.

Masking and protection

Tile, fixtures, and floor are covered before any coating goes on.

Pour-on application

The coating is poured and leveled into a smooth, uniform film.

Inspection and care instructions

We check the finish and leave you with simple instructions for the first 24 hours and beyond.

Replace vs refinish

Refinish or replace?

Refinish with us

Bathtub refinishing

From $435

No demolition, no plumbing work
3–4 hours on site, one visit
Ready to use in ~24 hours
Bathroom stays usable during work
Keeps your existing tile and fixtures
Can be refinished again in 7–15 years

Full replacement

Bathtub replacement

$3,000 – $8,000+

Tub removal, tile work, possible drywall
Drain/overflow replacement, new fittings
2–5+ days of work
Bathroom out of service the whole time
Building permit and COI if plumbing moves
Heavy cast iron to cut out and haul away

Get an exact price today

The fastest way to an accurate quote is a photo of your tub — including any chips or peeling areas. We’ll confirm pricing and availability and help you pick a time that works.

Send a photo of your tub

Reviews

      
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 Top Rated Service 2026
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   5.0 Excellent rating Last 12 months 
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      Posted on Google  
  
 
   Nicholas Jackson 
 18 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great work from the team on this, and an incredibly quick turn-around. They were able to come out the next day. If I had known the finished product would look this good I would have had my tubs reglazed years ago.

Owner's reply
Thank you, Nicholas! We hear "I wish I'd done this years ago" a lot — and honestly, it's our favorite thing to hear. Glad we could get out to you the next day. Enjoy the new finish!