The Science of Reglazing: The Process & Benefits

Reglazing a bathtub and tile is a great alternative to remodeling a bathroom for a homeowner who wants to give their bathroom a facelift without going through all of that work. It makes the tub look brand new for a fraction of the cost and only a few days of inconvenience. However, reglazing what is that, how does it work, and what are its real advantages. Renew Your Bath is the Bathtub Reglazing Resurfacing specialist in the Lehigh Valley, PA, area and would like to share the process and debunk some of the misconceptions.

What is Reglazing?

Reglazing, also known as refinishing or resurfacing, is the process of applying a new glossy coating over an existing surface, like a bathtub or tile. That’s right, the process of cleaning and prepping the surface and then applying a shiny, new finish. Not that reglazing isn’t an extremely effective process (when done by a professional and with the right materials, but to claim things like “liquid porcelain” or “synthetic porcelain” is a bit of a stretch.

Renew Your Bath uses only the best industrial strength coatings that actually bond to the existing surface of your tub or tile, ensuring a lasting and beautiful finish. This process can cost the homeowner as little as 10% of what it would cost to replace the tub, which of course is much less expensive than buying a new tub and having it installed.

The Reglazing Process

The reglazing process involves several critical steps, each requiring expertise and precision to ensure long-lasting results. Here’s an overview of the typical process:

1. Surface Preparation: The first step involves thoroughly cleaning the bathtub or tile surface to remove soap scum, grime, and mineral deposits. At Renew Your Bath, we use specialized high-grade cleaning solvents to ensure the surface is free from any contaminants that could interfere with adhesion.
2. Etching: Etching the surface helps create a better bond between the old surface and the new glaze. Some refinishers skip this step, leading to poor results. We use micro-etching systems that create a strong bond for the glaze to adhere to.
3. Priming and Bonding: To ensure proper adhesion, a bonding agent or primer is applied to the surface. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and durable finish. Our team uses low-build ceramic-substrate primer adhesives to ensure that the reglazed surface will last for years.
4. Application of Glaze: The glaze, or coating, is then applied using professional techniques and materials. At Renew Your Bath, we use ShurBond® Refinishing Systems, which are specifically designed for bathtub and tile refinishing. This ensures a high-quality finish that looks and feels like new.
5. Drying: Proper drying is essential for the durability of the reglazed surface. Some refinishers over-dry or under-dry their top coats, leading to poor results. We use adjustable air-flow drying systems to ensure that the coating dries evenly and retains its natural qualities.

Benefits of Reglazing

1. Cost Savings

Cost is one of the main benefits of reglazing. It costs thousands of dollars to replace a tub, between the removal of the old one, installing the new one, plumbing, and the actual tub. But reglazing will cost you only 10% of the replacement. So, it becomes a fiscally responsible way for homeowners to update their bathrooms if they’re looking for a change but don’t have much money.

2. Quick Turnaround

It takes weeks to remodel a bathroom, yet reglazing only takes a day. That is, a brand new bathroom without the trouble of a long construction period. Whether you’re getting ready to sell your home or simply want a quick upgrade, reglazing offers minimal downtime.

3. Eco-Friendly Option

By choosing to reglaze rather than replace your tub or tiles, you’re helping reduce waste. Old bathtubs and tiles often end up in landfills, contributing to environmental problems. Reglazing allows you to give your existing fixtures a new life, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

4. Improved Aesthetics

Reglazing can dramatically improve the look of your bathroom. Whether your tub has stains, chips, or a dull finish, reglazing can restore its original shine and make it look like new. Additionally, you can choose from a wide range of colors with our Bathtub & Tile Reglazing Color Chart, allowing you to customize the look of your bathroom.

5. Extended Lifespan

Reglazing is not a permanent fix but can add several years to your bathtub or tiles life. Professionally reglazed and with the right maintenance, it will last five to seven years. A lot of our customers end up reglazing their tubs after 6 or 7 years just so that their bathroom continues to look nice and modern.

Contact Renew Your Bath Today

Reglazing is a cost-effective, eco-friendly way to refresh your bathroom and extend the life of your tub or tiles. At Renew Your Bath, we are experts in Bathtub Reglazing & Resurfacing in Lehigh Valley, PA. With over 15 years of experience, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, long-lasting results that exceed our customers’ expectations.

If you’re ready to transform your bathroom without the hassle of a full renovation, contact One Day Bath today for a free estimate! Let us show you how our reglazing services can give your bathroom the fresh, new look you desire.