Bath Fitter vs Refinishing: Is It Worth $2,000+ More?
Bath Fitter costs $3,000-$5,000. Refinishing costs $600-$850. Get the same like-new tub for a fraction of the price.
What Is Bath Fitter?
Bath Fitter is a franchise company that installs acrylic liners over your existing bathtub and walls. The liner is a molded shell that fits over your old tub. They're heavily marketed but come with a premium price tag.
Important: Bath Fitter Uses the Same Liner Technology
Bath Fitter's product is fundamentally the same as generic bathtub liners — an acrylic shell placed over your existing tub. The premium price ($3,000-$5,000) is largely due to branding and marketing costs, not superior technology.
Cost Comparison
Refinishing
- ✓ Done in 3-4 hours
- ✓ No size reduction
- ✓ No moisture trapping
- ✓ Solid feel
- ✓ 5-year warranty
Bath Fitter
- • Takes 1 day
- ✗ Reduces tub size 1-2"
- ✗ Can trap moisture
- ✗ Hollow plastic feel
- • Lifetime warranty*
*Read fine print — many exclusions apply
Why Does Bath Fitter Cost So Much?
Bath Fitter's premium pricing covers their massive marketing budget, franchise fees, and sales commissions — not superior products.
TV Advertising
Heavy TV and radio advertising costs millions yearly
Franchise Fees
Franchise royalties built into every job
Sales Commission
In-home salespeople earn large commissions
Bath Fitter Questions
Is Bath Fitter worth the money?+
For most homeowners, no. Refinishing achieves the same result (a like-new bathtub) for $600-$850 vs Bath Fitter's $3,000-$5,000. You're paying a premium for their brand name and marketing.
How much does Bath Fitter really cost?+
Bath Fitter typically costs $3,000-$5,000+ for a tub and wall surround. Just the bathtub liner alone runs $1,500-$2,500. Refinishing the same tub costs $600-$850.
Is refinishing as durable as Bath Fitter?+
Yes. Both last 10-15+ years with proper care. Refinishing may actually be more durable because there's no gap for moisture to get trapped. Bath Fitter liners can develop mold issues if water seeps behind them.
What do Bath Fitter reviews say?+
Bath Fitter has mixed reviews. Common complaints include high-pressure sales tactics, surprise price increases, and issues with moisture/mold behind liners. Many customers wish they'd known about refinishing as an alternative.