Bathtub - should I refinish or replace?

Question

I just bought a house and there are are rust spots all over the tub and some low lying areas that collect water and don't let it drain. Just doing some quick online searching, it looks like it will cost about as much to have it professionally refinished as to just buy a new one and install it myself as I've seen them at lowe's for $250-350.

Whatcha think?

Answer 1

the replacement tubs that sell for $250.-$350.are really poor quality fiberglass or composite,if you have a porcelain tub its well worth the expense of the refinishing !you may want to look into what is causing the rust and try to rectify that first no matter which option you choose.

Answer 2

Professional refinishing is pretty good but no one can give a "factory" finish. Since you just bought the house, I would say replace. Don't even think about having a liner installed. This costs as much as a new tub and you have a finish you need to be very careful with.

Answer 3

keep researching the issue.  if you can afford a new "PORCELAIN" tub, that's the best way to go.  nothing like a new porcelain tub.

i have never seen a refinish that is durable enough for my standards.