How Much Does It Cost to Refinish or Reglaze a Bathtub?

By Shelley Frost

April 28, 2026

Dullness, stains that won't budge, difficulty with cleaning. Those are all signs that it could be time for tub refinishing. The bathtub reglazing process coats your old tub with a new finish to smooth out rough surfaces, fill in minor chips and cracks and give it a brand new look. The typical bathtub refinishing cost is usually significantly less than replacing the tub, which is why homeowners might choose that option. To make the best decision for your home, explore the cost to reglaze a tub and the factors that might influence the price.

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What Is Tub Resurfacing?

Tub resurfacing, sometimes referred to as tub reglazing, involves applying a coating over an existing tub. The refinishing process refreshes an existing tub that's still structurally sound but has some minor damage or visual imperfections. The process includes several steps:

Cleaning the tub well
Making repairs to create a smooth, even surface
Etching the surface with acid to help the coating stick
Applying a primer
Applying the top coat

The result is a shiny new finish that looks better and is easier to clean. You should get 10 to 15 years out of the new finish.

How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Tub?

The average bathtub refinishing cost typically ranges from $350 to $1,400 (CAD 485 to CAD 1,940) or more, depending on the details of the project, according to Homeguide. That's roughly 75% cheaper than a full bathtub replacement, so it's a cost-effective option for many people. It can refresh the space while keeping your bathroom remodel costs lower.

What Are the Factors in Bathtub Refinishing Costs?

The details of the bathtub refinishing project often determine the exact cost. Tub reglazing projects that are more complex or take longer cost more than simple, small jobs. Below are some of the main cost factors that influence your bathtub resurfacing cost.

Tub Size and Complexity

Size is a major cost factor because it determines how much surface area needs to be refinished. Not only does that require more materials and supplies, but it also increases the project time, which means increased labor costs. You might also pay more for an ornate or intricately designed tub. Those extra details require more care during the bathtub resurfacing project.

For example, if you're refinishing an ornate, vintage clawfoot tub, the price will likely range from $400 to $1,400 (CAD 554 to CAD 1,940) versus the standard tub range of $350 to $600 (CAD 485 to CAD 831). The cost to reglaze tub and shower combos is also usually more expensive since you're covering more area. You can expect to pay from $800 to $1,200 (CAD 1,108 to CAD 1,663) for the job.

Tub Material

Your current bathtub's construction is another factor in the cost to reglaze a tub. The tub surface material often impacts the amount of preparation required. Your contractor might also need to use different products or processes for some materials, which can increase costs.

For example, antique porcelain tubs could have damage that's not easy to spot, and it's sometimes difficult to get a historically accurate finish on the tub. A cast-iron tub might be rusted, which requires extra prep work. Heat and chemicals can damage acrylic, so that type of tub requires careful handling.

Here are some examples of bathtub refinishing costs based on the tub material:

Enamel: $350 to $600 (CAD 485 to CAD 831)
Porcelain: $350 to $600 (CAD 485 to CAD 831)
Cast Iron: $350 to $650 (CAD 485 to CAD 901)
Fiberglass: $350 to $600 (CAD 485 to CAD 831)
Acrylic: $400 to $700 (CAD 554 to CAD 970)
Antique porcelain: $500 to $1,200 (CAD 693 to CAD 1,663)
Current Tub Condition

If your existing tub has major issues, the contractor will need to do more preparation work, which increases the overall bathtub refinishing cost. This includes things like cracks, chips and rust. The overall project will cost more if there are other plumbing or structural issues, like leaking pipes or damaged caulk.

You'll also have a higher cost to reglaze a tub that's been refinished before. It's possible to refinish a tub more than once if it's still structurally sound. However, the current coating will have to be removed completely first, which adds to the labor costs.

Finish Options

Another factor in your bathtub reglazing cost is the finish that you choose. A basic white reglazing option will typically be the most cost-effective option. However, you might want to choose a custom color that works better with your decor, which will increase the cost. It can also cost more if your current tub is a dark color and you want to go lighter.

You'll also pay more for specialty finishes. One option is a textured finish to make the tub non-slip. It typically costs more, but the texturing makes the tub a little safer.

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Can You DIY Tub Reglazing?

Yes, you can purchase a DIY kit to lower the tub refinishing cost. However, keep in mind that those kits won't come close to professional reglazing. DIY bathtub refinishing often doesn't last as long and will likely start to peel or fail sooner than having your tub professionally refinished. Even the immediate results might not be as smooth or high-quality as a professional job.

Is the Cost of Reglazing or Resurfacing a Bathtub Worth It?

So, is bathtub refinishing worth it? That depends on your preferences and the condition of the tub. If you like the size and shape of your current tub and it's in good structural condition, refinishing is often a more affordable solution, compared to the typical tub replacement cost.

However, if you want to change more than just the surface of the tub, replacing your bathtub allows you to change the size, shape and other details. Paying more for that option might be your preferred solution, especially if you're doing a larger home improvement project in your bathroom and want everything to be new.

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