Bathtub liners are designed to fit over
your existing bathtub and walls. They are typically made out of vinyl
or plastic and can be installed
in a day. However, the cost versus bathtub refinishing is about
$1300 for the bathtub and $3000 if you include the wall surround.
The average bathtub refinishing project is $400.
Bathtub reglazing can save 70% versus the cost of a new liner.
Either a refinished bathtub or bathtub liner should last
12-20 years. This is based on a professionally done installation,
proper cleaning and care, and the quality of the products.
However, bathtub liners are easily scratched and if a
sharp edge touches a bathtub liner, it
could be damaged. This is also true with a refinished bathtub.
One must always follow the care instructions provided by
the company doing the work.
An improperly installed bathtub liner
can end up being a
headache for you later on. Bathtub liners tend to leak at
the joints, or at the drains, trapping
water between the liner and the old bathtub. This could
cause your bathtub liner to develop mold.
If this occurs
the only way to remove the mold is to remove the bathtub liner.
