How to Choose a Bathtub Refinishing Company
A complete guide to finding the right refinisher. What to look for, questions to ask, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Research Companies
Start by finding refinishing companies in your area. Look beyond just the first Google results — check multiple sources to get a complete picture.
Where to Look
- Google Maps: Search "bathtub refinishing near me" — check ratings and review counts
- Yelp: Look at both overall rating and recent reviews
- BBB: Check for accreditation and complaint history
- Nextdoor: Ask neighbors for recommendations
- HomeAdvisor/Thumbtack: Verified reviews from past customers
Tip: Make a shortlist of 3-5 companies with good reviews to compare.
Verify Credentials
Before getting quotes, verify that the company is legitimate and properly licensed. our pricing
CRITICAL: Verify Contractor License
In California and most states, bathtub refinishing requires a valid contractor license. Ask for their license number and verify it with your state's contractor licensing board (CSLB in California). Unlicensed contractors have no accountability — you can't file complaints, and warranties are worthless if they disappear. Never hire an unlicensed contractor.
Contractor License
Get their license number and verify it's active with your state's licensing board. In California, check at cslb.ca.gov. This is non-negotiable.
Liability Insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong during the project.
Physical Address/Established Presence
Legitimate companies have verifiable business addresses or established online presences. Be wary of companies that only provide a cell phone number.
Ask the Right Questions
When you contact a company, these questions will help you evaluate their quality and professionalism. customer reviews
Essential Questions to Ask
"What's your contractor license number?"
Best answer: Provides license number immediately. Verify it at cslb.ca.gov before hiring. Red flag: No license or refuses to provide.
"What coating system do you use?"
Best answer: Industrial 2-part epoxy with proper primer. Red flag: Vague answers or consumer-grade products.
"What's your warranty length and what does it cover?"
Best answer: 5+ years covering peeling and workmanship. Get terms in writing.
"Do you offer touch-up service? What does it cost?"
Best answer: Yes, with clear pricing ($80-$120 is typical).
"Can I see before/after photos of recent work?"
Best answer: Multiple examples readily available. Red flag: No portfolio or only stock photos.
"Can I get a written quote?"
Best answer: Yes, detailed and provided before work starts. Red flag: Verbal-only quotes.
Compare Quotes Carefully
Don't just compare price — compare the full value of what you're getting.
What a Quote Should Include
- Total price (not just an estimate)
- What's included (prep work, chip repair, drain area)
- What's NOT included (any exclusions)
- Warranty terms and duration
- Payment terms (deposit, when balance is due)
- Timeline (scheduling, cure time)
Price Warning Signs
Below $400: Usually means inferior coatings or rushed work. You'll likely pay again when it fails.
Above $1,000 (tub only): May be overpriced unless there's significant damage or special circumstances.
Make Your Decision
Consider everything together — not just price.
Decision Checklist
Why Customers Choose Proper Reglazing
We meet every criterion on this checklist
Licensed Contractor
Fully licensed with the state. Verify our credentials.
5-Year Warranty
In writing, with $80-$120 touch-up service.
Industrial Coatings
2-part epoxy with proper primer. 10-15+ year lifespan.
Direct Communication
Talk to the owner. Clear answers to all your questions.
Get Your Free Quote
See what we offer — no obligation