FAQ
- What types of fixtures do you resurface?
- We specialize in the resurfacing of porcelain, enamel, and fiberglass bathtubs. We also resurface ceramic tiles and certain sinks.
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- How much will I save with bathtub refinishing as opposed to replacement?
- Refinishing your bathtub will save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over bathtub replacement. While a brand new bathtub may only cost $300, there can often be several hidden costs to replacement such as removal and disposal cost, plumbing alterations, and tile work. These costs add up, and you can easily end up spending nearly$2,500 to replace your bath tub. The cost of refinishing varies depending on the size of your tub.
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- How long does the bathtub refinishing process take?
- Resurfacing a bathtub generally takes 4 hours, depending on the condition. A tub that has been resurfaced once before requires a stripping procedure that adds time to the job. A tub with extensive damage will take longer as well. The time it takes us to resurface ceramic tile is relative to the size of the area. Most tile jobs can be ready for use in 72 hours.
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- How long will my bathtub last?
- The durability of a bathtub refinished by A&J Resurfacing is very similar to that of a brand new bathtub. If properly maintained and no abrasive chemicals are used for cleaning it will last you many years just as a brand new bathtub would.
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- How do I care for and clean my refinished bathtub?
- The key to maintaining any coating is to clean it regularly, and only with a non-abrasive cleaner recommended for acrylics. Just as with a new bathtub, the finish or shine can be dulled by abrasive cleaners. Our acrylic enamel will remain glossy and hard for 10 to 12 years if cared for properly. Additionally, standing water (over long periods of time) is damaging to anything it sits on, so it is best to avoid puddles of water from sitting in the corners of your tub or around the drain. Chances are we are resurfacing your fixture because of damage from standing water.
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- Will my refinished bathtub look like it has been painted?
- This is a common myth in the bathtub refinishing industry. Your bathtub will not look like it was painted, since the material we use is more like a coating than a paint. In fact, our technicians pride themselves on the fact that it is quite difficult for an untrained eye to tell the difference between a brand new bathtub and one that has been refinished by A&J Resurfacing.
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- Will my refinished bathtub smell like it has been painted?
- Our technicians come equipped with full ventilation systems to expunge the fumes that do naturally occur with the use of solvents. Our first step is always to determine and set up equipment to maximize ventilation. Proper ventilation is crucial not only to reduce fumes and odors, but to manage airborne dust as well. Proper venting also circulates air, providing for faster drying time of our coatings and a better finish.
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- What colors does A &J Resurfacing offer?
- We carry Kohler pure white and Kohler bisque, as they are the most widely used on bathtubs, sinks and tiles. For a small fee, we can also order other manufacturer colors (American Standard, Benjamin Moore to name a few).
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- Does A&J Resurfacing repair cracks, chips, and scratches in my bathtub?
- Our technicians will fill in any chips or other imperfections in your bathtub or other surface prior to the refinishing process, making your damaged porcelain, acrylic, or fiberglass surface as good as new.
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- What is acid etching?
- Etching porcelain to maximize adhesion is an integral part of the successful refinishing process and provides superior service life for your refinished fixtures. Some companies promote an "acid free" process as a marketing tool, portraying etching as unsafe. A&J Resurfacing employs a stabilized acid etching solution that becomes neutralized during the cleaning process and will not harm any surrounding surfaces.
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- Can you refinish a tub that has been already refinished?
- Yes, a tub that has been refinished before can be refinished again. This involves the stripping and sanding of the old finish in order to ensure the proper adhesion of our finish.
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- What is the difference between bathtub refinishing and bathtub liners?
- Unlike our bathtub refinishing process, which is done on-site and in one day, bathtub liners are manufactured off-site as one-piece, heat-molded units that are inserted over your original bathtub or shower surface and then "glued" in place with adhesive caulk. Bathtub liners leave spaces between the liner and the original surface where moisture can condense and stagnate. Cracks in the liner can occur, potentially releasing moisture and lead into the bathing area. Our coatings are applied directly to the substrate, mimicking the original factory finish and prohibiting the growth of bacteria and lead leakage.
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- How does A&J Resurfacing's refinishing process differ from other competitors?
- Some refinishing companies take "short cuts" and like to skip the etching and priming stages of the refinishing process. Industry wide studies and laboratory testing have shown that etching is a critical step in the process in order to maximize adhesion and give the finished product the longest-lasting durability possible.
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