If your shower is looking dated or worse for wear, it might be time for a replacement. But before you go out and buy a brand new one, consider refinishing your current shower instead. Refinishing can restore old showers to like-new conditions while also saving you money. Keep reading to find out more!
Consider What You Want Before You Start
Before you begin the process, it is important to consider what you want out of your new shower.
- Are you looking for something that is more aesthetically pleasing, or do you need a functional upgrade?
- You should also think about how much money you are willing to spend on the project.
With careful planning, you can ensure that your new shower will be everything that you hoped for. Once you have a good idea of what you want, you can begin to look for a contractor.
Free Estimate Of Shower Refinishing
When you are ready to get started, the first step is to get a free estimate. You can do this by contacting a contractor in your area. Be sure to ask for references and look at their portfolio of previous work. This will give you a good idea of their skill level and what they are capable of.
The cost of shower refinishing will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. However, it is generally much cheaper to refinish an existing shower than to replace it entirely. The cost of materials will also play a role in the final price.
On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $800 to refinish a shower. This is a fraction of the cost of a brand-new installation, which can start at $1,500.
Labor costs will also be lower since refinishing generally takes less time than replacement. If you are looking for ways to save money on your bathroom remodel, refinishing your shower is a great option.
What Is The Refinishing Process Of A Shower
The refinishing process will vary depending on the type of shower you have. However, there are some general steps that all projects will follow.
Remove The Tub
The first step in refinishing a shower is to remove the tub or shower fixtures. This includes any faucets, showerheads, or other hardware.
Clean The Surface
The next step is to thoroughly clean the tub surface. All soap scum, mildew, and other dirt and grime must be removed before the refinishing process can begin.
Etching And Sanding Of The Bathtub
Etching helps to roughen up the surface of the tub so that the new finish will adhere better. Sanding also helps to create a smoother surface for the new finish. After etching and sanding, the tub should be cleaned with a tack cloth to remove any dust particles.
Replace The Caulk
Old caulk can harbor mold and mildew, so it is important to make sure that any new caulk is mold-resistant. Once the caulk has been replaced, you are ready to begin applying for the new finish.
Repair The Shower Floor
If you have a tile shower, you may need to replace some of the tiles. This is generally only necessary if the tiles are cracked or otherwise damaged.
If you are not replacing the entire shower, you will need to make sure that any areas that will be refinished are properly masked off. This includes the tub, fixtures, and floor.
Tub Repair
In some cases, it may be necessary to make repairs to the tub before refinishing. This could include patching any cracks or holes in the tub.
Shower Door
You will also need to remove the shower door if you have one. Be sure to clean any tracks or framing to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
Shower Pan Refinishing
If you have a shower pan, it will need a new coating too. The process is similar to refinishing a tub, but the materials will be different.
The contractor will typically use an epoxy-based coating for a shower pan. This type of coating is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Get A Fiberglass Shower
They are made from a fiberglass composite material. They are usually less expensive than tile or stone showers, and they are easier to install.
Fiberglass showers can be either one-piece or two-piece units. One-piece units are easier to install, but two-piece units allow for more flexibility in the design.
Tips For Maintaining Your New Finish
To keep your new finish looking its best, there are a few things you should do.
- First, always use a mild cleaner when cleaning the shower. Harsh chemicals can damage the finish.
- Second, avoid using abrasive scrub pads or brushes. This can also damage the finish.
- Finally, make sure to regularly seal the grout to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your new finish and keep your bathroom looking its best.
Common Mistakes People Make When Renovating Their Showers
- One of the most common mistakes people make when renovating their showers is not properly measuring the space. Not only do you need to measure the shower itself, but you also need to take into account the size of the bathroom and the location of the plumbing.
- Another mistake people often make is not waterproofing the shower properly. This can lead to serious problems down the road, such as mold and mildew growth.
- Finally, people often make the mistake of not ventilating the shower properly. This can cause steam to build up, which can damage both the shower and the bathroom.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your shower renovation goes smoothly and without any problems.
How Long Does It Take To Do Bathtub Refinishing
The time it takes to refinish a bathtub can vary depending on the size and condition of the tub, as well as the method used for refinishing. Generally, the entire process can be completed in one day.
However, it is important to allow adequate drying time between each step of the process, so it is best to start early in the morning and allow the tub to dry overnight before using it again.
While some methods of refinishing require toxic chemicals, there are now safer alternatives available that use less-toxic materials. These products may take slightly longer to apply and dry, but they are safer for both you and the environment.
Whether you choose a traditional or more environmentally-friendly method of refinishing, you can expect your newly refinished bathtub to last for many years with proper care.
Wrapping Up
So, whether you’re looking to replace an entire shower or just refinish the surface, we hope this guide has given you a good starting point for your project.
