Refinishing Bathtubs in Atlanta
Not all bathtubs are created equal
Bathtubs have been made of many different materials over the years. In the 1920’s they were almost exclusively made of cast iron with a thick porcelain overlay. Tubs were durable back then and lasted indefinitely. Starting around the 1970’s tubs started popping up in new homes made of steel with a thin porcelain coating or fiberglass. These are the tubs that are typically installed in new houses today. According to Keith Isakson, owner and operator of Top Gun Applied Surfaces, “cast iron tubs are still being made today with a thick porcelain overlay, but be prepared to spend a lot of money on those.”
If you own an older home and have a cast iron tub you may find value in keeping the tub and restoring it to its former glory. Even in 1970’s to 1980’s homes, steel was the top choice. But is it worth the effort to restore an older tub?
The answer to this question is yes! Bathtub refinishing is a process that strips your old tub of its top layer and then adds a new coating for a fresh new look that is durable and will last for years. So why not restore, should be the question.
The good news about older bathtubs is that even if the tub is dated, worn, scratched and peeling, the shape and size of standard bathtubs has pretty much remained the same. This means that although that tub is a mess, refinishing it will leave it brand new because the same size tub you found in older homes are typically the same size standard tub that is being installed in new homes today. So why wouldn’t you want to salvage your old tub?
Hiring a professional bathtub refinishing company, like Top Gun Applied Surfaces, is the smartest choice to get a quality finish on your old bathtub at a fraction of the cost of replacing. “It all comes down to budget,” says Isakson. “If a customer wants a fresh clean look at 1/6 of the cost (of replacing), then resurfacing is the best option.”
Many people want to try the do it yourself option when it comes to refinishing their bathtubs but the truth to that technique is that you will never quite get it as good as a professional will do it. You may end up spending more money in the long run if the process doesn’t work for you. Isakson stresses, “to do the job properly requires the right application with the right materials using the right equipment.” Something that can’t be achieved with a “do it yourself” kit because professionals use high grade, quality materials, and equipment that aren’t sold to the general public.