Table of Contents
- What to Look for in a Bathtub Refinishing Company
- How Long Does Bathtub Refinishing Take
- Bathtub Reglazing vs Replacement: Pros and Cons
- Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- Bathtub Refinishing Maintenance Tips
- Red Flags to Avoid
- Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: September 21, 2026
How to Choose a Bathtub Refinishing Company
Choosing the right bathtub refinishing company can save you thousands of dollars compared to replacement. But finding a qualified contractor takes more than a quick online search. You need to know what credentials matter, what questions to ask, and what red flags to watch for.
At Century BathTubs, we’ve helped homeowners and property managers navigate this decision since 1995. The difference between a quality refinishing job and a poor one comes down to licensing, experience, and the coating system they use. This guide walks you through exactly what to evaluate before hiring a bathtub refinishing company in your area.
What to Look for in a Bathtub Refinishing Company
A quality bathtub refinishing company has three core strengths: proper credentials, proven experience, and transparent communication. Not all refinishing services are equal. Some cut corners on preparation or use cheap coating materials that chip within months.
The best companies invest in training their technicians and stand behind their work with warranties. They also understand local building codes and insurance requirements. When you’re comparing options, focus on these measurable factors rather than just price alone.
Licensing and Insurance Credentials
Your bathtub refinishing company must be licensed and insured. This protects you if something goes wrong during the job. An uninsured contractor who damages your bathroom leaves you with the repair bill.
Ask for proof of current licensing. Request certificates of insurance and verify the coverage limits are adequate for bathroom work.
Licensed companies have met training standards and follow safety protocols. They’re also more likely to be accountable if the work doesn’t meet expectations. Unlicensed operators often disappear if problems arise.
Years in Business and Track Record
Experience matters in refinishing work. A company that’s been operating for many years has weathered market changes and learned what works. They’ve handled different tub materials, ages, and damage levels.
Ask how long the company has been in business and request references from recent jobs. Call at least three past customers and ask about their experience. Did the work hold up? Was the team professional? How did they handle cleanup?
A strong track record means the company has refined its process and knows how to deliver consistent results. Companies in business for many years typically have better coating formulas and more skilled technicians than newer operations.
How Long Does Bathtub Refinishing Take
Most bathtub refinishing jobs take one to three days from start to finish. The actual refinishing work typically takes four to eight hours, but the tub needs time to cure properly between coats.
Here’s what the timeline usually looks like:
- Day 1: Surface preparation and cleaning (2-4 hours)
- Day 2: Coating application and initial cure (4-6 hours)
- Day 3: Final coat and full curing (2-4 hours)
After the technician finishes, the tub needs 24-48 hours before you can use it safely. Some coatings cure faster than others. A quality EP-ACRYLIC coating system typically requires 48 hours for full hardness.
Plan for your bathroom to be out of commission during the refinishing process and for 2-3 days afterward. If you have multiple bathrooms, this is manageable. If it’s your only bathroom, arrange alternative facilities during the cure period.
Ask the company for a detailed timeline before booking. Some offer weekend or off-hours scheduling to minimize disruption to your home or rental property.
Bathtub Reglazing vs Replacement: Pros and Cons
Refinishing and replacement are two different approaches to fixing a worn tub. Understanding the pros and cons of each helps you make the right choice for your situation.
Bathtub refinishing (also called reglazing) involves cleaning the existing tub and applying a new coating. The tub stays in place. Replacement means removing the old tub and installing a new one.
When Refinishing Makes Sense
Refinishing works best for tubs with surface damage like stains, chips, or fading. If the tub structure is sound, refinishing restores it at a fraction of replacement cost.
Refinishing also avoids the mess and labor of tearing out an old tub. There’s no plumbing work required, no disposal costs, and no risk of water damage during removal. The job completes in days, not weeks.
Refinishing is ideal for:
- Cosmetic damage (discoloration, minor chips)
- Rental properties needing quick turnaround
- Homeowners on a budget
- Commercial properties with multiple bathrooms
- Tubs made of cast iron or acrylic in good structural condition
When Replacement Is Better
Replacement becomes necessary if the tub has deep structural cracks, significant rust (in cast iron), or extensive damage. A cracked tub will leak, and refinishing won’t fix the underlying problem.
If you’re doing a full bathroom renovation, replacement might make sense for design reasons. New tubs come in different styles, sizes, and materials that refinishing can’t match.
Replacement is the right choice for:
- Structural damage or deep cracks
- Rust that penetrates the tub material
- Complete bathroom remodels
- Changing tub size or style
- Tubs that are beyond repair
For most homeowners with cosmetic damage, refinishing saves money and time. Only consider replacement if the tub has structural problems that refinishing can’t address.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before you commit to a bathtub refinishing company, ask these questions to evaluate their qualifications and process.
About the Company:
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can you provide references from recent jobs?
- Do you handle both residential and commercial work?
About the Process:
- What coating system do you use?
- How long does the coating last?
- What’s your warranty or guarantee?
- How long does the job take?
- How long until I can use the tub?
About Pricing and Details:
- Do you offer a free estimate?
- What’s included in your price (preparation, cleanup, disposal)?
- Do you handle shower tiles refinishing?
- What’s your payment terms?
About Problem-Solving:
- What if the coating chips or peels during the warranty period?
- How do you handle unexpected issues (like discovering damage during prep)?
- What happens if I’m not satisfied with the results?
A reputable bathtub refinishing company answers these questions clearly and confidently. They don’t pressure you or avoid specifics. They explain their process and stand behind their work.
Bathtub Refinishing Maintenance Tips
A quality refinishing job lasts longer when you care for it properly. The coating is durable, but it’s not indestructible. Simple maintenance extends the life of your refinished tub.
Daily Care:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge for cleaning
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers that scratch the coating
- Rinse thoroughly after each use
- Dry the tub to prevent water spots
Weekly Cleaning:
- Use mild soap and warm water
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner
- Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals
- Wipe dry after cleaning
What to Avoid:
- Abrasive scrubbing pads or steel wool
- Drain cleaners or caustic chemicals
- Heavy impacts or dropping objects
- Extreme temperature changes
- Standing water or constant moisture
A three-year hassle-free guarantee typically covers normal use and maintenance. It protects against coating failure due to defects in materials or application. It doesn’t cover damage from misuse or neglect.
Avoid using drain cleaners in a refinished tub. These chemicals can damage the coating around the drain area. Use a plunger or drain snake instead.
Red Flags to Avoid
Some refinishing companies cut corners to save money. Watch for these warning signs before hiring.
Pricing Red Flags:
- Quotes significantly lower than competitors
- Unwillingness to provide a written estimate
- Pressure to pay cash or in full upfront
- No clear explanation of what’s included
Credential Red Flags:
- No proof of licensing or insurance
- Reluctance to provide references
- Recently established with no track record
- Negative online reviews or complaints
Process Red Flags:
- Rushing the job or skipping preparation steps
- Using generic or unnamed coating systems
- No mention of warranty or guarantee
- Vague about turnaround time or curing requirements
- Unwilling to answer technical questions
Communication Red Flags:
- Unresponsive to phone calls or emails
- No written contract or agreement
- Unclear about what happens if problems arise
- Pressure tactics or high-pressure sales approach
Companies that operate professionally provide clear answers, stand behind their work, and communicate transparently. If something feels off during your initial conversations, it’s a sign to look elsewhere.
Choosing a bathtub refinishing company is about balancing cost with quality and reliability. The lowest price rarely delivers the best results. Focus on finding a licensed, experienced company that uses quality coating systems and backs its work with a solid warranty.
Century BathTubs has served the Toronto and GTA area since 1995. Our trained, licensed, and insured technicians use a durable EP-ACRYLIC coating system backed by a three-year hassle-free guarantee. We handle everything from surface preparation to final cleanup, so you get a professional result without the hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bathtub refinishing worth it compared to replacement?
Refinishing costs significantly less than replacing a bathtub and extends the life of your existing fixture by years. It’s particularly valuable if your tub is structurally sound but stained, chipped, or outdated. Replacement requires plumbing work, tile removal, and disposal costs. Refinishing delivers a like-new surface in days rather than weeks, making it ideal for homeowners, landlords managing multiple units, and commercial properties seeking cost-effective solutions without major disruption.
How long does a professional bathtub refinishing last?
Quality refinishing with modern coating systems like EP-ACRYLIC typically lasts three years or longer with proper care. Durability depends on the coating quality, surface preparation, and how well you maintain the finish afterward. Reputable companies offer guarantees backing their work, so ask about coverage terms. Avoid companies that cannot specify their coating type or warranty period, as this indicates lower-quality materials or workmanship.
What should I look for in a bathtub refinishing contractor’s insurance?
Verify that the contractor carries appropriate insurance. Ask to see proof of current coverage before work begins. Licensed, insured contractors provide protection if something goes wrong. Unlicensed operators may disappear if issues arise, leaving you with no recourse. Always confirm credentials in writing and check that insurance is active, not expired.
Are there eco-friendly bathtub refinishing options available?
Yes. Refinishing itself is more eco-friendly than replacement because it keeps your existing tub out of landfills and avoids the waste from demolition and disposal. This approach appeals to homeowners and commercial property owners prioritizing sustainability while saving money and avoiding the environmental cost of full replacement.