Replacing an existing bathtub with a newer model is not always a simple chore. The original tub almost always needs to be cut into pieces to fit through the bathroom door. There might also be flooring, trim, surrounds, and plumbing that will need to be removed and replaced. While a new tub can cost as little as $150, labor expenses for the replacement process can easily add $1,500 or more to the bill.
Instead, many homeowners have the existing tub reglazed or refinished, which typically costs $300-$600, depending on the area and process. If your bathtub is dingy and stained, or even if it sports some serious rust and cracks, a trained professional can likely fix and re-coat the surface for a like-new look.
Cast-iron, steel, and fiberglass tubs and shower stalls can all be re-coated to match the original finish or in an entirely new color. The bathtub refinishing process involves three steps: