How Much Do Shower and Bathtub Liners Cost to Install in 2025?
The average cost to install a shower or bathtub liner is $6,392
The cost to install a shower or bathtub liner ranges from $499 to $15,000, with an average price of $6,392.
Location, tub size, and material quality can affect your overall investment.
Professional liner installation is crucial in preventing costly water damage and mold issues.
Budgeting for optional upgrades and potential plumbing repairs is essential to maximize long-term value.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Plan to spend between $499 and $15,000 on a bathtub liner, with most homeowners spending an average of $6,392. Your final price depends on where you live, the size of the tub, and the material you pick. Hiring a seasoned installation professional ensures the liner remains watertight and helps you maximize the value of your investment. You should also plan to reline every few years once cracks, chips, or discoloration begin to appear.
Shower or Bathtub Relining Cost Factors
Several key variables determine your final bill for liner installation, including the type of liner being installed, the material it’s made of, and labor requirements.
Cost by Type
The cost of your bath or shower liner project depends on the type of liner you need. Here’s a closer look at the expenses of shower vs. bathtub liners.
Bathtub Liner
Bathtub liners range from $499 to $15,000. Expect to pay toward the high end if your tub is oversized or has an unconventional shape. You can choose from countless colors and patterns to freshen up the look—or completely change it—while PVC and acrylic remain the go-to picks for durability and easy upkeep.
Shower Liner
Prices for shower liners mirror those for tubs, ranging from $499 to $15,000. Built-in shelves, soap dishes, and other custom touches push costs toward the top of that span.
Cost by Material
Installing a tub liner with a wall surround involves two separate costs. A tub surround is priced between $1,000 and $2,000, a shower surround is priced between $700 and $900, and the liner installation ranges from $499 to $15,000. The total project cost will be the sum of these two components.
A surround-liner combo creates a more cohesive appearance. It is an affordable way to give your bathroom a facelift while adding extra functionality, such as shelving or grab bars, and updated decor, without the full cost of a bathroom remodel.
| Wall Surround Material | Average Price Range (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Polystyrene | $90–$300 |
| Fiberglass | $210–$1,300 |
| Acrylic | $260–$1,600 |
| Vikrell | $270–$1,800 |
| Solid surface | $260–$2,000 |
Labor
Hiring a local plumber costs $500 to $1,500. Plumbers often bill $45 to $200 per hour, while dedicated liner installers may quote a flat rate based on the job’s complexity.
Your pro will measure, trim, and anchor the liner, then double-check every plumbing hook-up. Rates swing by region—expect to pay more in high-cost areas. Removing an old liner costs $450 to $1,100, so factor this into your budget, along with any necessary plumbing repairs.
Refinishing vs. Installing a Liner
If the tub is in reasonably good condition, you can save money by having it reglazed rather than relined. Bathtub refinishing costs range between $350 and $650, making it a significantly more budget-friendly option than installing a new tub liner. However, reglazing doesn’t last as long as a new liner since it’s a cosmetic update.
The bathtub needs to be in good condition for reglazing to be a viable option for a plumber. Liners do not fix faulty pipes or faucets, so it’s essential to address any issues before scheduling installation.
DIY Liner Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Most acrylic liners are a professional-only job. Installers have access to higher-grade materials and the expertise to achieve a watertight fit. Buying a kit and hiring a professional for the installation can help reduce the cost. Either way, meet on-site with at least three contractors before you sign.
If you’re on the fence about your DIY chops, play it safe and let a licensed plumber handle the work. A bad seal traps moisture, inviting mold, mildew, and pricey water damage. A vetted local plumber gives you a snug fit and peace of mind.
Ways to Save on Shower or Bathtub Liners
Renovating your bathroom with a shower or bathtub liner doesn't have to break the bank if you employ these cost-saving strategies:
Compare multiple quotes: Collect at least three bids to keep pricing competitive and save a few hundred dollars.
Consider standard sizes and styles: Custom designs significantly increase costs, while standard options cost 20 to 30% less.
Ask about package deals: Many companies offer discounted rates when combining liner installation with wall surrounds or additional bathroom features.
Time your project strategically. Schedule installation during off-peak seasons (fall or winter) when contractors may offer promotional pricing.
Prepare the space yourself: Handle the removal of existing fixtures or clear the bathroom area to reduce labor costs.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
A bathtub liner is a custom, one-piece shell that slips over your existing tub to hide cracks, stains, and chips. Most are molded from tough acrylic or PVC and can include a matching wall surround for a complete facelift. When a pro bonds the liner in place, you get a watertight seal, a fresh look, and an added layer of safety—all without tearing out the old tub.
After a tech measures your tub and orders a made-to-fit shell, installation takes a day. The installer cleans the surface, applies industrial-grade adhesive, and positions the liner in place. They trim the edges, tighten the drain, and run a smooth bead of silicone caulk to lock out moisture. A quick plumbing check wraps things up, leaving you with a ready-to-use tub by the next morning.
You can pick preset sizes or order a liner molded to your tub’s exact shape, then choose from dozens of colors, patterns, and finishes to match—or refresh—your bathroom. A pro trims and fits the shell on-site, so every contour lines up and accessories like grab bars or shelving land exactly where you want them.
If the liner’s material accepts a fresh coating, a professional can sand it, apply epoxy, and restore the shine in six hours for $480. Swapping in a brand-new liner runs $800 to $1,000 and takes a day or less. Refinishing is the wallet-friendly route when the shell is structurally sound, but it won’t last as long as starting over with new acrylic.
Most liners last three to five years. High-quality acrylic, a snug professional fit, and routine cleaning help you reach the upper end of that range. If moisture seeps behind the shell, mold and odors can shorten its life, so keep an eye out for loose caulk or soft spots and call a professional if you spot trouble early.
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