Home Town Restyling has seen a lot of remodeling trends and products come and go over the years. For instance, for bathroom remodels quick cosmetic fixes have become popular to deal with dated, difficult to clean bathtubs and showers. Businesses have sprung up that offer tub liners and wall surrounds that cover up existing issues rather than replacing the fixtures.
While this method is a quick and inexpensive option, it often backfires on homeowners because the product doesn’t resolve the true problems in the bathroom. Acrylic inserts that are installed over the top of cast iron or steel tubs (if you have an old acrylic tub, this option won’t work for you) often just cover up decay that will come back later to haunt the homeowner.
Whenever we talk to a homeowner about bathtub replacement, we recommend removing the old tub or shower basin, inspecting and repairing any underlying problems under and around the bathtub and then replacing it with a new tub and wall surround.
When we remove a bathtub, we inspect for:
-Rotted wood in the support beams and sub-flooring that may threaten the structural integrity of your home.
-A buildup of mold and mildew creating unpleasant and even unsafe living conditions. As many home inspections now routinely include mold testing, this problem may even make it difficult or impossible to sell your home.
-Waterlogged wood and construction material which creates an inviting environment for termites and other insects.
-Water damage resulting in floors that are no longer level. This in turn may create additional strains on the structure, plumbing and other systems.
Pulling out the old tub is really the only way you can be sure your home doesn’t have any of these problems so although it costs a little more, it’s worth it.
Not sure if you have any of these problems? Check out this article on Five Bathroom Water Damage Signs You Need to Know.
Even if you are absolutely positive you don’t have any of these problems, there are other reasons to consider a replacement bathtub over installing an acrylic liner over the existing tub or basin.
Easier cleaning – Many bath liners require special cleaning products to avoid damage. Failure to use approved products may void the product warranty.
Comfort – Installing a new liner directly over an existing bathtub will result in a narrower bath and higher tub walls, which can make the tub less comfortable.
Flexibility – Replacing the shower basin or tub allows for more flexibility. You can do conversions like tub-to-shower or some other configuration that you can’t get if you just re-line the existing tub.
Workmanship Warranty – Most acrylic liner products only have a limited product warranty (meaning only certain parts or aspects of the product are guaranteed) and they do not cover workmanship. Home Town Restyling’s offers 20 year guarantee on workmanship on our bath tub replacement projects.
If there is a bathroom remodeling project in your future, Home Town Restyling can help you start planning for the project before you ever leave home. Download our free Bathroom Remodeling Checklist and start planning like a pro.
