> really don't want to spend $500 plus on reglazing

An acrylic tub/shower surround will set you back $4000-$5000 (at least here in FL), so it may not be a way you want to go, either.

Reglazing is certainly cheaper, but depending on what the housing market is like where you are, it might be better than doing either one just to offer an allowance for the new owners to do what they want.

I really don't want to offend anyone, but at least for the tub surrounds that I have seen looked very nice from a distance, but close up did have that fake look and feel. (don't mean to be hurting feelings here, if you have it and like it maybe it's a better one than what I have seen).
"not that there's anything wrong with it........."

Glazing seems to be very variable- I think it really depends on the process done. I had asked a bit in these forums and it does not seem to be a uniform process all over. At least in my recollection.

Thanks for your input. I'm not talking about a tub surround, I'm talking about that shell that you put into the bath tub that gives the tub a whole new finish. I'm sorry I wasn't better at explaining it.

>that shell that you put into the bath tub

Not sure what you mean--do you have a link?

Are you talking about something like this?

I think you're looking for Bathfitter.

Here is a link that might be useful: Bathfitter

The tub insert I'm talking about is sold at HD and Lowe's and is a do it yourself project, I think. I'll do some searching for web sites that sell them and maybe they'll have some information for me.

Thanks everyone for your help.

Probably some gross etiquette breach to cross-link to another board, but I would think twice about it. This guy's experience was typical from what I have read.

Here is a link that might be useful: re-bath problems

Brutuses
as I understand your tub is not a cast iron? Am not sure you
can reglaze anything else. If it is a cast iron and you want really quick fix- Menards and such do sell DIY reglazing kit for about $20.
HD and other box stores do sell tub liners, some more expensive than others.
There are companies like Re-bath, Luxurybath and Bathfitters that will do a custom tub liner for you but it cost apprx $ 1100.

I had a friend use a DIY reglaze on his tub and it didn't turn out well. It looks okay, but it doesn't feel smooth.

>The tub insert I'm talking about is sold at HD and Lowe's and is a do it yourself project, I think

Our HD and Lowes sell one piece acrylic units of pretty poor quality, but they are not liners, but standalone units for added baths. To use one in an existing room would involve removing the existing tub, so it's still not clear what you mean. Judging by the other replies, I don't think I'm the only one not getting what you're talking about.

writer, the thing I'm talking about has been used many times on HGTV remodeling/fix up shows. I'll try to find a web site and post it. Thanks for your input.

Brutuses, I'm pretty sure you a BATHTUB LINER, which is a common alternative to refinishing. :) It's like an acrylic skin that is custom-made to go over your existing tub.

I haven't seen such a liner in person, so I don't know, it seems perhaps rather cheap and flimsy? I'd be a little concerned about issues with water getting under the liner. To go by reports, some folks have had better luck with epoxy DIY refinishing or having a company come in to refinish for $500 or so. I have seen some very nicely done refinishing jobs.

For the liner, you have to have the liner guys come out to measure your tub for the liner etc, and at that point maybe refinishing is just as easy an alternative?

Good luck, whichever you choose!

Here is a link that might be useful: about tub liners

circus, that answers my question and no I won't be using it. LOL We'll most probably just hire someone to refinish the tub for the resale. Our tub is not that bad, but I think a brand new looking tube would be the best for resale. You know how people want nice baths and kitchens. We plan on giving them both so our house sells quickly.

That makes sense, Brutuses. Again, you might want to start a thread asking for folks' experience who have actually used such a tub liner before entirely ruling it out. There's an entire industry built around them, so clearly someone is using 'em!

Personally I do like the idea of refinishing, since it's a solidly-fixed layer with no drawbacks except eventual wearing down, just like the porcelain itself -- I've done it myself successfully, and if you schnuffle around to find someone with good local references, you should be able to find a reputable refinisher to do yours.

cheers!

I have been installing Acrylic tub liners for 17 years, if you have any questions ask me.

pow, finally someone who installs these things. My concern is that standing on it in the tub will feel "soft." Also, what material to you use to seal it around the drain? My concern is also that water would get between it and the tub. Is it glued to the existing tub? Does it fit like a skin, very snug? Do you need special tools to install it? My husband is a GC and knows plumbing, etc. Is the installation difficult for someone who hasn't done it before?

Thanks so much for your help on this.

Powbath, we have an older acrylic tub with two jets. There is a ding in it, but I want to change the color without the hassle or expense of installing a new tub. This is a standard size tub and the faucet is wall mounted. Where do I start looking for someone who does this? Assuming there are no unanticipated problems, what might be a ball park price? I live in SE Minnesota (not the Twin Cities).