i would like some opinions on refinishing a cast iron bathtub.has anyone had any problems with chipping ? also, what about acrylic tub liners? what is the estimated cost to re-coat a tub?thank you.
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Jazmine,
Coating the tub usually costs in the $500-1000 range while a tub liner is a $800-1200 thing. Tub liners are typically made from the same acrylic/pvc material as Jacuzzi brand tubs, with no foam backing for support. They are installed with a mixture of butyl tape and silicone caulk.
Refinishing if done well will often last 7-10 years but once it starts to come up usually continues. Tub liners are a 10-15 year item. Both require specialized installation and are rarely a do-it-yourself item. DanT
If you have this done, make sure you have some form of recourse with the company that does the recoating. Be aware that the area near the drain must be properly prepared and coated. This is the area most likely to rust and ruin the new coating in an expanding circle of rust.
I had one done about 10 years ago and it lasted about 6 mos. before the rust around the drain reappeared (which was the only reason we had the thing refinished). The company was long gone by then. Since then I heard lots of horror stories about tub refinishing. Do your homework on the company you plan to use. Get lots of references. Good luck.
I have no personal experience with this product, but have heard good reports.
BATH-BRITE BATHTUB RESTORER
http://www.superjetco.com/Commercial/html/Bprocess.html
My MIL had it done twice (well, actually three times). The first time they did a great job, and it lasted over ten years, until a tile guy (another story) messed it up. She got it redone, but the second job was really lousy -- flaking off within weeks. Finally got it redone again, and this time it's pretty good (though still not like the first job).
With the refinish job you do have to be fairly careful -- the surface is nowhere near as hard as the original. And, obviously, get some references from the outfit -- and check them.
the best way to refinsh a tub and get a 30 yr life span out of it is with a 10 lb sledge and a new tub. every time one of my rentals need tub work i think i'll have it "refinshed" check on price usally 500-600.forget that ,sledge it out ,go to hd buy a new cast iron kohler 300.00. by the time i'm done i have about 700 in tile and tub but i don't have to look at it again for 25-30 yrs. now if your selling the house have it sprayed and sell!!! larry