Modern Bathroom Design

Simple Bathtub Remodeling Tips - How To Give Your Bathtub A New Look For Less

A bathtub is a major structure in your bathroom that can be very expensive to replace. But there are some simple things you can do to update your bathtub without breaking your wallet.

Consider replacing bathtub accessories. Would your bathtub look better by changing the shower curtain to a more modern and updated design? And what about changing the shower rod as well? What about adding a new bath rug to soften the appearance of the bathtub? Purchasing new accessories for your bathtub area can go a long way in giving you a remodeled bathtub look. This is by far the cheapest way to spruce up the area.

Consider replacing bathtub fixtures. Is your shower head, faucet, knobs, or handle worn and dated? Consider replacing only these fixtures if your bathtub is still in good condition. Often, adding new shiny fixtures will give your bathtub a new appearance since these are the areas of the bathtub that your eye is drawn to first.

Consider having a bathtub liner installed. If your bathtub has a lot of wear and tear on the actual tub, this is a cheaper solution than removing the old bathtub and putting in a new one. A bathtub liner is simply installed over an existing tub for a clean, new look at less than half the price it would cost to purchase a new tub.

Consider changing the look of the walls around the bathtub. Fresh, new paint or adding tile to the walls around the bathtub can give the bathtub area a new look.

Replacing a Bathtub

Why are you replacing a bathtub?

Replacing a bathtub is a big job, and you should first consider why you want to replace the bathtub. Removing a bathtub is not an easy job, and you should first consider your reasons, and see if there are other options. If maintained well, a bathtub will give good service for many years.

If your existing bathtub is pink or aqua, I can see your point. In that case, reglazing might be an option. This is not inexpensive, but will eliminate the struggle of getting the bathtub out of it's existing space.

If the bathtub is white, and the bathtub surround is shabby, or the enclosure doors are in bad shape, you might be better served by installing a new surround and new shower doors. this can give a bathtub a stunning new appearance.

If you are installing a new surround, take this occasion to install an anti-scald device. This will give you the pleasure of even water temperature even if someone flushes a toilet, or the washer begins filling. Instead of water flow suddenly becoming icy or scalding hot, the water temperature will maintain evenly.

This is a great time to install a new updated faucet system which will also enhance the appearance of your bath area.

Going Green tips

With the trend toward "going green", working with what you already have could be your contribution. Considering some or all of the going green tips above could save you money and put one less thing in the landfill.

On the other hand, if the bathtub itself is in a bad state, then replacement might be the only option.

Before replacing a bathtub:

   1. Shop and consider the options available.
   2. Consider what bathroom in your home this is, and who will be using the bathtub.
   3. Don't forget the possibility of future resale. You may have no desire to sell at this time, but life is full of change. Think about who would be the bulk of your market. For instance, if your home has three or four bedrooms, families with children would most likely be the bulk of your market. With that in mind, replacing a standard bathtub with a whirlpool in a main bath would probably not be a good idea. People with small children might be put off by this addition to a main bath.
   4. Review the value and benefits of different bathtub material and different styles before making a final decision.