Everything You Need to Know About Reglazing
Thinking about reglazing your bathtub, shower, or tile? This page covers everything — how the process works, how it compares to replacement, what coatings we use, and how to take care of your newly reglazed surface. No fluff, just straight answers.
- Our Process
How We Do It — Step by Step
Every DR Reglazing job follows the same proven 5-step process. No shortcuts.
Assessment
Before any work begins, our technician inspects the surface for chips, cracks, previous coatings, and structural issues. We assess whether refinishing is the right solution and identify the correct prep approach for your specific material.
Surface Preparation
The most critical step. We clean, degrease, and chemically etch the surface to ensure maximum adhesion. Chips and cracks are filled and sanded smooth. Caulk is removed and will be replaced fresh at the end. The surrounding area is fully masked off.
Coating Application
We apply our professional-grade bonding coat followed by multiple layers of topcoat using a professional spray system. The bathroom is sealed off during application to ensure even coverage and prevent contamination.
Curing
Once applied, the coating needs time to cure. We use a heat lamp or allow natural curing depending on conditions. Proper cure time is non-negotiable — rushing it is the #1 cause of premature peeling.
Cleanup & Final Inspection
We remove all masking, apply fresh caulk, do a final inspection, and leave your bathroom clean. Before we leave, we walk you through the care instructions and answer any questions.
- compare
Reglazing vs. Replacement — An Honest Comparison
We’ll tell you straight: reglazing isn’t always the answer. But most of the time, it is.
| ✅ Reglazing | 🔨 Full Replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Cost | $500–$800 typical | $1,500–$5,000+ with installation |
| ⏱️ Timeline | 5–7 hours, done in 1 day | 3–7 days minimum |
| 🔨 Disruption | Minimal — no demolition, no plumbing | Full demolition, dust, debris |
| ♻️ Waste | None — we clean up and your existing fixtures stay | Old fixture goes to landfill |
| 📅 Lifespan | 5–10 yrs typical, up to 15 with care | 20–30 years (new fixture) |
| 🏠 Best for | Good structure, surface-level wear | Severely damaged or structurally compromised |
The Math Is Simple
A reglaze at $400 that lasts 10 years costs you $40/year. A full tub replacement at $3,000 that lasts 25 years costs you $120/year. Reglazing done right — and maintained properly — is almost always the smarter financial decision.
Honest Longevity Guidance
The industry average is 5–10 years for a professionally reglazed surface. With the right cleaning products, no abrasive scrubbers, and no rubber mats, surfaces can last up to 15 years before needing a re-coat. The biggest factors are maintenance habits and whether prep work was done correctly.
- safety
Is Reglazing Safe? What You Need to Know
We use professional-grade coatings and strict protocols on every job. Here’s exactly what that means.
What Coatings Do We Use?
We use professional-grade polyurethane and acrylic urethane topcoat systems — applied by trained technicians in compliance with EPA and state environmental guidelines. These are not available over-the-counter. We do not use Isocyanate-based (2K) coatings that require full hazmat protocols.
Why Do You Need to Leave During Application?
During coating application, the spray process releases VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Even with proper ventilation, these fumes are not safe to breathe without a professional respirator. Everyone must vacate the home for a minimum of 2–4 hours during and after application. Your technician will give you a specific return time before beginning work.
When Is the Surface Safe?
- warranty
Our Warranty — What's Covered
We stand behind our work. Here’s exactly what our warranty covers — and what it doesn’t.
Homeowner Warranty
For owner-occupied residential properties
Rental Property Warranty
For landlord-owned properties with tenant occupancy
✅ What IS Covered
- Peeling or delamination of the coating
- Bubbling or blistering of the finish
- Significant fading or yellowing under normal use
Making a Warranty Claim
Contact us with photos of the issue and your original job date. We'll assess and schedule a repair at no charge if the issue falls within warranty terms. A warranty confirmation is provided at the completion of every job — keep it with your home records.
- care
Care & Maintenance — Protect Your Investment
Here’s how to clean your newly reglazed tub, tile or sink and keep it looking great for years!
✅ Use These
- ✓ Soft Scrub (liquid, non-gel)
- ✓ Dish soap + warm water
- ✓ Mild bathroom spray (no bleach/ammonia)
- ✓ Soft cloth or non-scratch sponge
- ✓ Fabric bath mat (not rubber suction cups)
🚫 Never Use These
- ✗ Ajax / Comet / Bar Keepers Friend
- ✗ Bleach-based cleaners
- ✗ Ammonia-based cleaners
- ✗ Vinegar (acidic — etches the surface)
- ✗ Magic Eraser / melamine sponges
- ✗ Steel wool / abrasive scrub pads
- ✗ Rubber suction-cup bath mats
Additional Tips
- Rinse the surface after every use to prevent soap and mineral buildup
- Dry with a soft cloth to minimize hard water spotting
- Re-caulk around edges every 2–3 years to maintain a watertight seal
- Notice a small chip? Contact us early — minor repairs are far simpler than letting damage spread
❓ Have more questions? Visit our FAQ page for answers about reglazing timelines, what to expect, and more.
