Reglazing vs liner vs full replacement
Three ways to fix a worn tub. Reglazing at $300 to $600 is the budget option. A premium acrylic liner from Bath Fitter or Re-Bath runs $2,500 to $10,000. Full replacement starts at $1,500 and climbs fast. Here is how to choose.
| Option | Cost | Timeline | Lifespan | Plumbing? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reglaze | $300 to $600 | 1 day on-site | 10 to 15 yrs | No | Cosmetic refresh |
| Acrylic liner | $2,500 to $10,000 | 1 day install | 15 to 20 yrs | Drain swap | Premium budget, longer life |
| Full replacement | $1,500 to $5,000+ | 2 to 5 days | 25 to 50 yrs | Full re-plumb | Structural damage, layout change |
Reglazing deep dive
- Existing tub stays in place
- 1 day on-site, 24 to 48 hr cure
- 10 to 15 year lifespan with care
- No demolition, no plumber needed
- Best when the tub is structurally fine
The right call for the vast majority of tired-but-sound tubs.
Acrylic liner (Bath Fitter / Re-Bath)
- Custom-moulded acrylic shell over existing tub
- Bath Fitter typical: $4,000 to $8,000
- Re-Bath typical: $6,000 to $12,000 (full system)
- Slightly reduces tub depth (~half an inch)
- Includes new walls / surround in most packages
Premium pricing reflects the in-home measurement, custom mold, and lifetime warranty most franchises advertise.
Full replacement
- Tub removed, plumbing reconnected, surround rebuilt
- Plumber + tile setter + sometimes carpenter
- 2 to 5 days of bathroom downtime
- Best when changing layout or size
- Cast iron tubs add $200 to $400 just to remove
Required when the tub is cracked through, fiberglass is delaminating, or you want a different footprint.
Decision framework
- 01
Is the tub structurally sound (no cracks through the body)?
↳ If no, replace. ↳ If yes, continue.
- 02
Are you happy with the size and position of the tub?
↳ If no, replace. ↳ If yes, continue.
- 03
Is your budget under $1,000?
↳ If yes, reglaze. ↳ If no, continue.
- 04
Do you want the longest possible lifespan and a full bathroom refresh in one visit?
↳ If yes, consider a liner. ↳ If no, reglaze.
ROI for home sale
Reglazing a tired tub for $400 typically adds $1,000 to $2,000 in perceived bathroom value during a sale. Buyers see the listing photo, see a clean white tub, and stop counting deferred-maintenance items. It is one of the highest-ROI improvements you can do in the week before listing.