How Much Does Bathtub Refinishing Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Average bathtub refinishing costs range from $336 to $629, with most projects averaging $483. Factors that influence the cost include the tub’s material, size, and labor costs. 

Regular refinishing extends the life of your bathtub and can save you up to $3,000 compared to a full replacement. Hiring a professional bathroom contractor ensures high-quality, long-lasting results, making this investment worthwhile for maintaining your bathroom’s appearance and value.

Bathtub Refinishing Cost Factors

How much you’ll spend on refinishing your bathtub depends on a variety of factors. Here’s a closer look at how your total breaks down.

Material

Bathtub resurfacing costs depend on your tub’s material. Here’s what you can expect to pay based on the material.

Fiberglass 

The price to refinish a fiberglass bathtub ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the size. If you have a one-piece combo with a shower surround, you’ll pay more because it’s a larger area. Although reglazing covers chips or minor cracks in porcelain or enamel, fiberglass may need additional work.

Porcelain 

Reglazing a porcelain tub costs $475 on average. Most in this style have a cast iron or steel base with a thin layer of porcelain on top. You can tell by putting a magnet on it. If it sticks, you’ve got metal inside.

If you have a solid porcelain tub, it’s probably more than 100 years old. In this case, you’ll want to hire a bathtub refinishing pro with experience handling antiques. Antique porcelain tubs cost $500 to $1,200 to refinish.

Cast Iron 

Refinishing a cast iron tub costs $350 to $600. This material often has a surface layer of porcelain or enamel. If it chips or scratches, the metal may rust quickly.

Cast iron was the standard in bathtubs for decades until synthetic materials like fiberglass rose in popularity. Resurfacing and regular cleaning can keep this type in good condition for more than 100 years.

Enamel 

Most cast iron units have an enamel coating that can chip or crack. When you read about re-enameling a tub, most pros are talking about repainting it with enamel. This is a significantly less expensive alternative that takes much less time.

Painting enamel onto a bathtub costs $350 to $600. Much like reglazing, this process includes sanding the surface and applying paint in a color of your choice.

True enameling, however, is a pricier project. It requires all of the steps outlined below, which can total up to hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.

• Removing the tub and disconnecting the attached plumbing.

• Transporting it to a company for treatment.

• Baking the new enamel using a kiln.

• Delivering and reinstalling it.

Refinishing Method

The method you choose plays a big role in your total cost. Whether you’re considering an inlay, reglazing, or installing a bathtub liner, your contractor can help you pick the option that best fits your tub’s condition:

Tub Condition

If your tub has major cracks or deep chips, expect to pay more. Light wear, small scratches, or basic discoloration won’t move the needle much on price.

Another element that will influence how much it costs to reglaze a tub is whether it’s been refinished before. Previous glazing may require professionals to use additional products to create a smooth surface when refinishing, meaning a greater timeframe for the entire process.

Tub and Shower

Refinishing a tub and shower costs $600 to $1,000. Most combination units made of fiberglass or acrylic have no separation between the top and bottom. This means that if you want to resurface one part, you’ll have to do the whole thing at once.

Resurfacing vs. Replacing a Bathtub

Consider the points below to determine whether resurfacing or replacing your bathtub is right for you. 

Resurfacing

Refinishing is the most budget-friendly choice with an average price of $450. Your bathtub may be a good candidate for reglazing if:

• It’s in good condition with minimal scratching.

• You don’t need to change the plumbing.

• You like the style.

• It’s an antique you can’t easily replace.

If you’re not sure, ask a bathtub refinishing pro for an on-site consultation. They can inspect the tub and tell you if it needs more than a surface treatment.

Replacement

Installing a bathtub costs $5,700 on average, but can cost as much as $14,700. Don’t forget to budget for the cost of removing the old tub.

You should consider replacing your bathtub if:

• The old tub is cracked or seriously damaged.

• You don’t like the style.

• You need to fix the pipes behind the wall.

Here are the average costs for various styles of new bathtubs if you’re considering a full replacement.

Ways to Save on Bathtub Refinishing

Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your bathtub refinishing project more budget-friendly:

• Choose a standard color for your new bathtub surface, as custom colors will add to your expense.

• Ask your bathroom contractor about potential discounts for bundling other bathroom projects, like installing a new backsplash or vanity countertop.

• Obtain quotes from at least three bathtub refinishing pros to ensure competitive pricing.

DIY vs. Hiring a Bathtub Refinishing Professional

DIY refinishing can trim upfront costs, but most homeowners find that a pro delivers smoother, longer-lasting results. A professional refinisher can create custom colors to match your existing décor or provide a completely new look. Plus, they have the expertise to ensure the job is done right the first time.

If you're considering DIY, keep in mind that refinishing kits cost between $30 and $150 and include epoxy or resin that requires careful application after sanding the surface. Some adhesives begin to dry within minutes, so you need to work quickly and accurately. Mistakes could lead to costly repairs or the need to hire a pro anyway. For the best results, it's wise to hire a local bathtub refinishing pro.

When you’re ready to line up bathroom pros near you, be sure to:

• Read reviews from previous customers.

• Request an onsite estimate.

• Get quotes from at least three companies.

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.