Refinishing your bathtub will save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over replacement. While a brand new bathtub may only cost $300, there are several hidden expenses to replacement such as removal and disposal costs, plumbing alterations, and tile work. These costs add up, and you can easily end up spending $2,000 or more to replace your bathtub.
How long does the bathtub refinishing process take?
From start to finish, it takes about 5 to 6 hours. The process will dry to the touch in about 12 hours. The masking paper can be removed and the tub re-caulked in as little as 24 hours. The bathtub is ready for use 48 hours after refinishing.
To put the "downtime" into perspective, you can look at it this way. If we're refinishing your tub on a Monday, you can use the tub that morning before we come out, and then you can use it again on Wednesday morning, so you're really only down one morning without the tub.
How long should my refinished bathtub last?
The durability of a refinished bathtub is very similar to that of a brand new bathtub. If properly maintained and no abrasive chemicals are used for cleaning, it should last 12 to 15 years or more, just as a brand new bathtub would.
Will my refinished bathtub look or smell like it has been painted?
This is a common myth in the bathtub refinishing industry. Your bathtub will not look like it was painted, since the material we use is more like a coating than a paint. In fact, it is impossible for an untrained eye to tell the difference between a brand new bathtub and one that has been refinished. Regarding the smell, we use ventilation and filtering systems to reduce the fumes that naturally occur with the use of solvents. Although you may notice a slight odor after we are finished, this typically is gone in a few hours.
What is your warranty or guarantee?
We guarantee our work in writing against product defects (bubbling and peeling) for 3 years. It is not guaranteed against chipping, because the surface can chip after refinishing just as it can before refinishing.
What other types of surfaces can be refinished?
We can refinish porcelain, cultured marble, fiberglass, acrylic, formica, and tile surfaces, which include bathroom tubs and sinks, wall tile, countertops, and shower stalls, as well as kitchen countertops.
What colors do I have to choose from?
Most surfaces can be refinished not only in solid colors, but also in the latest MultiSpec colors, which is an imitation stone look that gives you the appearance of Corian. Imagine a natural stone look at a fraction of the cost! Corian can cost upwards of $50 a square foot installed, while our process is less than half that cost, plus there's no messy tear-out! This uniquely decorative paint consists of individual flecks of different colors, subtly blended to achieve the natural appearance of such materials as granite, cork, leather, and stone. The finish is durable, and the stone look is truly custom!
Can you repair chips, cracks, scratches, and nicks, and remove rust from my bathtub and sink?
Yes! We've been doing chip repair for homebuilders and homeowners across the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex for many years. From hammers dropping into tubs, to soap dishes and towel bars falling off the wall, chips can happen in homes under construction, in homes just built, and in homes lived in for years!The good news is, just because a tub or sink has chips, nicks, or scratches, it doesn't necessarily mean it has to be completely refinished. If the damage is located above the water line, it can be repaired. If the damage is located below the water line, it can still be repaired, but not guaranteed, because the water can eventually loosen the repair. In cases like this, we recommend refinishing, so the work can be guaranteed.
What makes Sharp Porcelain Refinishing different from other refinishing companies?
Most other refinishing companies are franchises, who must buy their products from the franchise. We are a small family business who has personally owned and operated our company for over 25 years here in the Dallas and Fort Worth metroplex. Other than this website, all of our business comes from referrals. We aren't the cheapest or the most expensive out there, but we are the best in what we do. From the high quality refinishing products that we use to the meticulous care we take with every single job, you will never be disappointed with our work. Just take a look at our some of our testimonials.
Are there any additional options I should know about?
Yes, here are the fine details. If there is damage (chips, rust, nicks, cracks, pinholes, dents, etc.) on a surface that is going to be refinished, the damage must be repaired prior to refinishing. Repairs start at $25, and can go up depending on the severity of the damage. Our experience has been that most tubs do have some damage, but it's usually very minimal.
Part of the preparation before refinishing is removing the caulk between the bathtub and the last row of tile, as well as protecting the immediate surrounding area with paper and statically-charged plastic. The day after refinishing, you have the option of removing this plastic/paper and re-caulking the tub yourself, or we will come back to do it for a return trip charge of $75. Taking the paper down and recaulking is certainly something most homeowners can do, but most prefer that we do it for them so it is a turnkey project.
Because your refinished tub is going to look brand new again, most homeowners opt for a shiny new drain and overflow cover in the tub after it has been refinished, and we will do this for you at no extra labor charge if we are coming back anyway to take down the paper and recaulk the tub. You can purchase the drain and overflow yourself that you want us to install, or we can buy it for you. If you want us to buy it, the cost of the drain and overflow is determined by the type of finish you choose (chrome, brass, nickel-plated, etc.), and prices start at $25 for chrome, which is the most common finish.
Do you do any plumbing work?
Before bathroom sinks and countertops can be refinished, the plumbing must be removed. Since we do not have the plumber's tools or expertise to do this type of work, you may choose to do this work yourself or use your own plumber.
If you have opted for a new drain and overflow cover for your bathtub, please try to remove the drain several days before we arrive, just to make sure that it can indeed be removed. Sometimes, if a tub is very old and the drain has never been removed before, it may not be possible to remove it without breaking it. In that case, you should get a plumber to remove the old fixtures before we get there, or we can refinish the tub with the old fixtures in place.
Can I get a FREE estimate?
Absolutely! Because we have over 25 years experience, most jobs can be quoted sight-unseen by discussing it with you over the telephone. However, some items like fiberglass or cultured marble tubs, enclosures, and countertops may require on-site estimates. If we feel an on-site visit is necessary to assess the job, there is no charge.
What kind of payment methods do you offer?
Payment is due at the completion of the job. We accept cash, checks, and credit cards IF they are paid through your PayPal account.
How can I reach you?
By email or by phone at the office (888-530-0787).
