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 |  | Average: $500-$1,000 |  | High: Can Run $1,200-$4,000 |
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If you have a decrepit bathtub, one solution is a bathtub liner designed to fits tightly over the top of your existing bathtub. They're typically made of acrylic, PVC or plastic, and come in a wide range of colors. Nothing has to be removed or torn out; the liner is installed over the existing tub. A liner is more expensive than reglazing the bathtub ($300-$600), but less expensive and less time-consuming than replacing a bathtub ($1,500-$5,000).
Typical costs: |
- Having a liner installed in just the bathtub alone can run $500-$1,000. However, in many cases if the bathtub is in bad shape, so are the surrounding walls. Installing a liner complete with replacement walls panels, soap dishes, shampoo shelves or other options can run $1,200-$4,000. Higher-end models have a more "custom" look. Liners made of PVC are usually less expensive, but are thinner than acrylic and tend to yellow with age.
Related articles: Refinishing a Bathtub, Replacing a Bathtub, Bathroom Remodeling
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What should be included: |
- Some standardized liners are now available, but in most cases a company representative will visit your home to take precise measurements and photographs of the tub. The company will identify the correct model, then vacuum-form an acrylic sheet into the shape of your tub. The resulting liner weighs about 35 pounds, and is delivered to your home. The company's installer will carefully clean your old tub; remove the drain and overflow; trim the liner to fit snugly against the walls; attach the liner to the old tub with adhesive; then install a new drain and overflow, and caulk the seams. Liners are usually delivered in about 4-8 weeks, and installation takes about 6-8 hours.
- ThisOldHouse.com compares[1] liners and reglazing, and Popular Mechanics provides an illustration of a basic tub liner.
Shopping for a bathtub liner: |
- Major bathtub liner companies include BathFitters[2] , Luxury Bath[3] and ReBath[4] .
- Check with family and friends or ask at the local hardware store for recommendations. Try to get at least three estimates, and request (and contact) references from satisfied customers. Ask how long the company has been in business and how their installers are trained, and see if there are any complaints on file with the Better Business Bureau[5] .
- Have the sales rep explain their manufacturing process and the chemicals used during installation. Double-check whether the company has your exact tub model in stock. If necessary, contact the company headquarters where the molds are made to be sure they have your model.
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| CostHelper News
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What People Are Paying - Recent Comments |
| Posted by: Sam123456 in Florrisant, MO. | Posted: July 18th, 2011 01:07PM |
| Manufacturer: Rebath | Installer: |
I wish I had shopped, could have replaced with better grade materials for less. Also, had problems with water getting under tub liner and feeling squishy. Would not recommend this alternative. |
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| Posted by: KDI kitchens in southgate, MI. | Posted: February 26th, 2011 01:02PM |
| Manufacturer: kdi tub liners | Installer: joe |
nbelievable very professional put down tarps through out house tub and travertine walls are beautiful clean up better then when he came thx Joe |
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| Posted by: Judy D in Royal oak, MI. | Posted: February 8th, 2011 06:02AM |
| Manufacturer: Five Star Bath | Installer: Ron |
Great job I'm so happy with my new bath and all my friends love it. I would highly recommend if you are thinking of getting a new tub call Five Star Bath. |
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| Posted by: CHRISTINE R in TAYLOR, MI. | Posted: March 4th, 2010 06:03AM |
| Manufacturer: NATIONAL TUB LINER | Installer: CHRIS |
GREAT JOB VERY PROFESSIONAL, CHRIS EVEN FIXED MY DRIPPING SINK FAUCET FOR FREE. |
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External Resources: |
- www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,191221,00.html
- www.bathfitter.com/
- www.luxurybath.com/bathroom-bathtubs.php
- www.rebath.com/
- search.bbb.org/
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