Giving your bathroom a fresh, updated look doesn’t have to mean tearing everything out and spending thousands. If you’re dealing with an outdated tub, old tile, or worn countertops, there’s a smarter way to get the transformation you want, without the price tag that usually comes with it.

Reglazing Your Bathroom on a Budget: How to Get a New Look for Less

Reglazing is one of the most affordable and effective ways to bring new life to your bathroom. Homeowners in Baltimore, Nottingham, and Washington, DC are turning to refinishing services to get that “just remodeled” look, without going over budget or dealing with a full renovation.

Let’s talk about how you can reglaze your bathroom for less and still get stunning results.

What Is Reglazing, and Why Is It a Game-Changer?

Reglazing (also called refinishing or resurfacing) is the process of restoring the surface of your bathtub, tile, sink, or countertop by applying a specialized coating that makes it look like new again. Instead of ripping out old fixtures, you’re updating the existing surfaces.

Here’s how it works:

  • The surface is cleaned and stripped of any old coatings or residue.
  • Small cracks or chips are filled.
  • A bonding agent is applied.
  • A new finish, usually a durable urethane or acrylic coating, is sprayed on.
  • The surface is cured and ready to use within 24–48 hours.

It’s fast, clean, and budget-friendly.

Why It’s So Much Cheaper Than Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling comes with a long list of costs: demolition, plumbing, tile, new tubs, installation, materials, and labor. According to HomeAdvisor, the average bathroom remodel in Maryland or DC can run between $6,000 and $15,000+, depending on the scope of the work.

Compare that to refinishing. Reglazing a bathtub or tile surround usually costs between $400 and $1,200, a fraction of the cost of a remodel.

So why pay for a brand-new tub when you can restore your current one for less than a quarter of the cost?

What Can Be Reglazed?

If you think reglazing is just for bathtubs, think again. Here are a few surfaces we regularly refinish at Tub Coaters:

  • Bathtubs: From standard tubs to clawfoot and jetted tubs, reglazing removes stains, chips, and dullness.
  • Tile walls & surrounds: Transform old tile from faded or outdated to modern and clean, no demo required.
  • Shower pans: Reglazing can seal cracks, fix discoloration, and make shower floors easier to clean.
  • Bathroom countertops: Granite and laminate counters can get a new life with our durable refinishing process.
  • Sinks: Refinish chipped or stained sinks instead of buying new ones.

As long as the structure is intact, reglazing works wonders.

How to Know If Reglazing Is Right for You

If you’re on a budget, reglazing is one of the best value upgrades you can make. But is it the right choice for your bathroom?

Reglazing is a great option if:

  • Your tub or tile is solid but looks worn or outdated.
  • You want to avoid construction mess and downtime.
  • You’re preparing to sell or rent a property and want to boost its appeal.
  • You love the layout but want a fresher look.
  • You want a fast, affordable bathroom update.

It may not be the best solution if:

  • The fixture has structural damage (like large holes or severe rust).
  • You’re changing the layout or reconfiguring plumbing.

If you’re unsure, just give us a call, we’ll take a look and let you know what’s possible.

How Long Does Reglazing Last?

One of the biggest questions we hear is, “Does reglazing last?”

The answer: yes, if it’s done right.

When performed by experienced technicians using high-quality products, a reglazed surface can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. That’s not much different from the lifespan of a brand-new bathtub or tile installation.

At Tub Coaters, we’ve perfected our process over 26+ years and more than 130,000 jobs. Our coatings are designed to stand up to everyday use and cleaning.

Budget Tips to Maximize Your Reglazing Project

If you want to stretch your dollars even further, here are a few ideas:

1. Refinish Multiple Surfaces at Once

Bundling services (like reglazing your tub, tile, and vanity top together) often reduces the overall cost per item.

2. Avoid DIY Kits

While DIY reglazing kits may seem cheaper upfront, they usually don’t last long and can leave your surfaces looking worse. Professional coatings and equipment are far more durable and give you a smoother finish.

3. Choose Neutral Colors

If you’re planning to sell or rent your home, stick to timeless colors like white or soft gray. These colors appeal to more buyers and won’t go out of style.

4. Keep Your Layout

By reglazing rather than replacing, you avoid plumbing changes or tile work, some of the most expensive parts of remodeling.

Caring for Your Reglazed Bathroom

Once your new finish is applied, it’s important to take care of it. Here are a few simple tips:

  • Wait 24–48 hours before using the surface.
  • Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners (no bleach or scrubbing pads).
  • Avoid leaving shampoo bottles or soap bars on the surface for long periods.
  • Use a rubber mat without suction cups to avoid damage.

With just a little maintenance, your refinished tub or tile will stay beautiful for years.

Why People Trust Tub Coaters in Baltimore, Nottingham & DC

We’re not a big-box contractor that disappears after the job is done. At Tub Coaters, we’ve built our reputation on honest work, long-lasting results, and affordable solutions.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • 26+ years of experience
  • 130,000+ happy customers
  • No cheap DIY kits, only commercial-grade coatings
  • Locally trusted in Maryland and DC
  • Real technicians, real craftsmanship

When you work with us, you’re not just getting a cosmetic upgrade. You’re getting a finish that looks amazing, saves you money, and holds up for years.

Thinking About Giving Your Bathroom a Fresh Start?

You don’t need to break the bank to get a fresh, clean, updated bathroom. Whether your tub is chipped, your tiles are faded, or your countertops are looking dull, reglazing is the fastest, most cost-effective way to give your bathroom new life.

At Tub Coaters, we help homeowners across Baltimore, Nottingham, and Washington, DC get beautiful results without the stress or mess of a remodel.

Call Tub Coaters at (410) 324-6057 to schedule your free estimate and see how much you can save with professional reglazing!