If your tub is looking worn, stained, or outdated, you already know that bathtub reglazing is the smart, affordable fix.
But, does your tub’s material matter when it comes to this process?
The answer to this question is an absolute “yes!” To properly set your expectations, it’s important to understand the differences between these bathtubs:
- Fiberglass tubs are lightweight, mildew-resistant, common in newer homes.
- Porcelain bathtubs tend to be heavier, more durable, and are often found in older or higher-end homes.
Both types can be reglazed, but the process and results are different for each. As a homeowner, it’s important to know what to expect when it’s time for a professional reglazing.
At Jet’s Amazing Glazing, our experienced team offers the best reglazing services for all types of tubs in Southeast Michigan. If you’re ready to bring that old tub back to life, contact us today!
Bathtub Reglazing Materials: What Makes Each Type Different
Before picking a reglazing approach, it helps to understand what you’re working with. Fiberglass and porcelain show wear differently.
Here are key distinctions between these two materials:
1. Fiberglass Tubs
Fiberglass is a molded plastic composite material. It’s lightweight and inexpensive, which makes it popular in modern construction.
The tradeoff, naturally, is durability. Fiberglass scratches more easily and can develop a chalky, faded appearance over time. It’s also more flexible, which means it can flex slightly underfoot.
As you might expect, that flexibility matters when it comes to reglazing. The coating needs to bond well to a surface that moves.
2. Porcelain Bathtubs
Porcelain tubs are made from cast iron or steel that’s been coated with a baked enamel finish. Yes, these tubs are heavy and hard to move, but they’re also rigid, reliable, and built to last.
The downside to these tubs is the high cost of reglazing them.
Over time, the enamel finish on your porcelain tub can chip, stain, and lose its luster. Hard water deposits and rust spots are especially common in older tubs.
Thankfully, the rigid surface makes porcelain an excellent candidate for reglazing. The coating adheres smoothly and evenly, producing a like-new finish every time.
3. Which Type of Bathtub Reglazes Better?
Both materials respond very well to professional reglazing, so it really comes down your needs and preferences.
- Porcelain tends to produce slightly smoother and more durable results due to its rigid surface.
- Reglazing fiberglass tubs can achieve excellent results, but it requires a thorough surface preparation before the coating is applied.
It’s better if the repairs are as thorough and flawless as possible to reduce the risk of your final glaze being affected. It’s wise to trust your fiberglass tub repairs to an experienced professional before glazing.
Whether fiberglass or porcelain, a professionally reglazed tub looks dramatically better than a worn or stained one.
What to Expect From the Reglazing Process
Regardless of your tub material, the reglazing process follows a similar path. Here’s what you can expect from a professional glazer:
- The surface is thoroughly cleaned, and any chips or cracks are repaired.
- The area is masked off to protect the surrounding surfaces.
- A bonding agent is applied to help the new coating adhere.
- The finish coat is applied and allowed to cure.
Most bathtub and shower reglazing jobs are completed in a single visit when you turn to the services of Metro Detroit’s best reglazing company.
Jet’s Amazing Glazing: Southeast Michigan’s Reglazing Experts
You and your family deserve to bathe in a shiny, clean tub that looks like new. The team at Jet’s Amazing Glazing in Wayne, MI, can breathe new life into your old bathtub.
We have years of hands-on experience refinishing fiberglass, porcelain, and even cast iron tubs. Our reglazing services include:
- Bathtub and shower reglazing
- Counter and sink reglazing
- Additional refinishing services
We serve homeowners, landlords, and property managers across Southeast Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Canton, Dearborn, Detroit, Livonia, and beyond.
Not sure which option is right for your tub? We’re happy to help. Call (734) 744-5621 or contact us online to request a free quote today!