How to find a bathtub reglazing contractor
The price gap between a $250 budget operator and a $600 mid-tier specialist comes down to prep, chemicals, and warranty. Here are the seven questions that separate them and the red flags that mean walk away.
Where to find contractors
Search 'bathtub reglazing' + your zip. Read recent reviews carefully.
National franchises like Miracle Method or local refinishing-only specialists. Almost always better than handymen.
Decent for getting multiple quotes fast. Vet each one yourself.
Better for negative-review filtering than for finding the best.
Specialists almost always beat general handymen for this work. The chemicals, the prep, the spray equipment, and the warranty all favour someone who reglazes 200 tubs a year over someone who does it twice.
Seven questions to ask
Stripping chemicals?
Watch for methylene chloride. Safer answers: NMP, soy-based, mechanical strip.
Ventilation setup?
A specific exhaust plan, not 'we open the window'. Ductwork to outside is the standard.
Number of topcoats?
Two coats is the floor. Three is better. One is a budget shortcut.
Prep work included?
Should mention strip, sand, prime, and chip repair. If they skip prep details, they skip prep.
Warranty length and what it covers?
3 to 5 years standard. Should cover peeling, bubbling, and discolouration. Not damage from abrasive cleaners.
Workers' comp and liability insurance?
Both. Ask for proof. If they balk, walk.
Recent before/after photos?
Should have a portfolio. If not, they are either new or hiding the results.
Red flags
- Quote under $200 (prep is being skipped)
- No mention of ventilation or safety
- Vague or no written warranty
- Cannot show recent work
- Wants to apply over old finish without stripping
- No insurance or won't provide proof
- Pressure to book on the consultation call
- Cash-only payment terms
What a good quote looks like
- Itemised: prep + primer + topcoat + warranty
- Specifies number of coats (2 or 3)
- Cure time stated (24 to 48 hr)
- Warranty length and exclusions in writing
- Total price, not just hourly rate
- Specific stripper / chemical brand named
- Crew's insurance certificate available
Warranty expectations in 2026
Often skips prep. Fails year 3 to 4.
Sweet spot for most homes.
Worth it on cast iron or vintage tubs.
How to get the best price
- Book in spring or fall (off-season for bathroom remodels)
- Bundle tub + tile surround for a 10-15% discount vs separate
- Get three quotes minimum, ignore the lowest if it's >25% under the others
- Ask about cancellation slots (some specialists discount last-minute openings)
- Mention you have multiple bathrooms; multi-tub jobs typically save $50 to $100 each