Professional bathtub refinishing, also called reglazing or resurfacing, typically costs about $350 to $700 for a standard alcove tub. Refinishing the tub and a tile surround together usually runs $650 to $1,500. That’s a fraction of the cost of replacing a tub, which is why refinishing is one of the most popular budget bathroom updates.
Use the calculator below to price your project, then read on for costs by tub type, refinishing vs. replacing, and how to make a new finish last.
Bathtub refinishing cost calculator
Bathtub refinishing cost by tub type
These ranges are for professional refinishing at national average prices, before chip repairs or other upgrades.
| Tub or surface | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Standard alcove tub | $350 – $700 |
| Jetted or whirlpool tub | $450 – $900 |
| Clawfoot tub, inside only | $400 – $800 |
| Clawfoot tub, inside and outside | $600 – $1,200 |
| Shower pan or base | $300 – $600 |
| Tub plus tile surround | $650 – $1,500 |
| Tub plus fiberglass surround | $600 – $1,200 |
Porcelain on cast iron and steel, fiberglass, and acrylic tubs can all be refinished, and the price is similar for each. The tub’s condition matters more than its material.
Repairs and upgrades that add to the cost
- Chip repair: about $50 to $150 for a few chips.
- Crack repair: about $150 to $400, mostly for fiberglass and acrylic tubs.
- Rust spot repair: about $75 to $200 on cast iron or steel tubs.
- Stripping an old coating: about $100 to $250 if the tub has been refinished before and the finish is peeling.
- Slip-resistant bottom: about $50 to $150.
- Custom color: about $50 to $150. White and almond are usually included.
Refinishing tile, countertops, and sinks
Many refinishing companies also coat other bathroom surfaces in the same visit, which can update a dated bathroom without demolition.
| Surface | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Tile tub surround | $300 – $800 |
| Fiberglass or acrylic surround | $250 – $500 |
| Vanity countertop | $200 – $450 |
| Sink | $150 – $300 |
| Tile floor | $300 – $700 |
Tile refinishing changes the color of the tile and grout, but it won’t fix loose tiles, cracked grout lines that let water through, or damage behind the walls. If the tile is failing, a new surround is the better choice. Our tile calculator can price new tile.
Refinish, reline, or replace?
| Option | Typical cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Refinish the tub | $350 – $700 | Sound tubs with worn, stained, or dated finishes |
| Refinish tub and tile walls | $650 – $1,500 | Budget updates to the whole tub area |
| Acrylic tub liner | $1,500 – $4,000 | A fast, low-mess update over a sound tub |
| Replace the tub | $1,400 – $4,200 | Cracked, leaking, or wrong-size tubs |
Refinish when the tub is structurally sound and you’re happy with its size and shape. Replace it when it’s cracked through, leaking, rusted through, or you want a different style. See our bathtub replacement cost calculator to compare, or the walk-in shower cost calculator if you’re thinking about removing the tub.
What happens during professional refinishing
- The refinisher removes caulk and hardware, then deep-cleans the tub.
- Chips, cracks, and rust spots are repaired and sanded smooth.
- The surface is etched or sanded so the new coating will bond.
- Surrounding areas are masked, and a ventilation system pulls fumes outside.
- A primer and several coats of finish are sprayed on.
- The tub cures for 24 to 48 hours, then it’s re-caulked and ready to use.
Most jobs take three to six hours on site. The coatings give off strong fumes, so ask how the company ventilates the room, and plan to keep children and pets out of the area.
DIY bathtub refinishing kits
DIY kits cost about $70 to $180 for a tub with supplies, so they’re tempting. But the coatings are usually thinner than professional finishes, and results depend heavily on prep. Expect a DIY finish to last a few years rather than a decade. If you try it, clean and etch thoroughly, follow the kit’s ventilation and safety instructions, and wear a respirator rated for the product you’re using.
You can compare tub refinishing kits on Amazon or at Lowe’s. Look for a two-part epoxy or urethane kit with an etching step, and check reviews for durability in tubs that get daily use.
How to make a refinished tub last
- Clean with mild, non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth or sponge.
- Avoid bleach, abrasive powders, and scrub pads.
- Don’t use suction-cup bath mats, which can pull at the finish.
- Fix dripping faucets quickly to prevent stains.
- Keep the caulk in good shape so water doesn’t get under the edges.
Want to see all your options? Browse our bathroom cost calculators.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to refinish a bathtub?
Most professional bathtub refinishing costs about $350 to $700 for a standard alcove tub. Jetted tubs run about $450 to $900, and clawfoot tubs refinished inside and out about $600 to $1,200. Refinishing the tub and a tile surround together typically costs $650 to $1,500.
Is it cheaper to refinish or replace a bathtub?
Refinishing is much cheaper. A standard tub costs about $350 to $700 to refinish, compared with roughly $1,400 to $4,200 to replace, or $1,500 to $4,000 for an acrylic liner. Replacement makes more sense if the tub is cracked through, leaking, or the wrong size.
How long does bathtub refinishing last?
A professional refinish usually lasts about 10 to 15 years with gentle, non-abrasive cleaning. DIY kits are thinner and typically last only a few years, especially in a tub that gets daily use.
How long after refinishing can I use the tub?
Most refinishers recommend waiting 24 to 48 hours before using the tub, depending on the coating and humidity. Ask your refinisher for their specific cure time.
Can you refinish a fiberglass or acrylic tub?
Yes. Fiberglass and acrylic tubs can be refinished, and small cracks can often be repaired first. Badly flexing or cracked-through fiberglass tubs may need replacement instead.
How much does it cost to refinish bathroom tile?
Refinishing the tile around a tub typically costs about $300 to $800. It changes the color of dated tile without removal, but it won’t fix loose tiles or water damage behind the walls.
Estimates are national average costs for 2027 planning and are not quotes. See our disclaimer and affiliate disclosure.
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