Bathtub Liner vs Refinishing: Which Is Better?
Liners cost $1,500-$3,000. Refinishing costs $600-$850. See why refinishing is usually the smarter choice.
What Is a Bathtub Liner?
A bathtub liner is a custom-molded acrylic or PVC shell that fits over your existing tub. The old tub stays in place, and the liner is glued on top.
Key issue: Moisture can get trapped between the liner and old tub, potentially causing mold and mildew problems.
What Is Refinishing?
Refinishing (reglazing) applies a new coating directly to your existing tub surface. The tub is cleaned, etched, primed, and sprayed with durable coatings.
Key benefit: No gap for moisture to get trapped. The new finish bonds directly to your tub.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Common Problems with Bathtub Liners
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Moisture Trapping
Water seeps between liner and tub, creating ideal conditions for mold growth
Size Reduction
Liners reduce bathtub dimensions by 1-2 inches on all sides
Hollow Feel
Thin plastic feels hollow and cheap compared to solid refinished surface
Liner vs Refinishing Questions
Is refinishing better than a liner?+
In most cases, yes. Refinishing costs 50-70% less, doesn't reduce tub size, and eliminates moisture/mold risks. The finish bonds directly to your tub with no gap for water to seep in.
How much do bathtub liners cost?+
Bathtub liners typically cost $1,500-$3,000+ installed. This is 2-4x more expensive than refinishing at $600-$850.
Do bathtub liners cause mold?+
They can. Water can seep between the liner and original tub through the seams. This trapped moisture creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth, which is hidden from view until it becomes a serious problem.
Why do liners reduce tub size?+
Liners are molded shells that fit over your existing tub. The liner material adds thickness on all sides, reducing your usable tub space by 1-2 inches in each direction. Refinishing has no effect on tub size.