Should I replace the tub in my bathroom?

Question

I am wanting to update my bathroom and don't want to spend over $5,000. The bathroom is small 6' x 8' and was built in the early 60s. The shower/tub tile is still in very good condition, but it is beige and brown 3" ceramic; however, I wish to lay floor tile with a tile base around the wall and believe that the tile on the floor should match what is in the tub/shower. I might be selling the house within 10 years, so, I I want it to be something tasteful that would be a good selling feature. Almost all of the tile I see in the stores is the natural stone look in 12" tiles. I think that is too big for such a small space. What size should I be looking for, and should I replace the tile around the tub/shower to match the floors? I am also extending the tile into the utility area which is about 5' wide x 6' in length. Also, should I replace the tub or is there a way for a professional to remove the stains, as bleaching hasn't helped.

Answer 1

As far as tiles- you should be able to find a huge variety of sizes, shapes, colors-even at a home improvement store. If not, check a tile store. All sizes are used on tub surrounds, it is just a matter of preference. Subway tiles are very popular right now- I have installed thousands of feet in the last couple of years. Floor/surround tiles do not need to be the same, but should complement each other. Bathrooms and Kitchens give you the best return on your investment when selling, particularly if they are upgraded from dated colors, materials, etc. -sounds like yours falls in this category. Unfortunately, $5,000 is a tight budget even if you do the work yourself.

As far as the tub- having the tub removed and re-enameled is something that is generally done only on a vintage clawfoot tub. You can get a new tub for the same price. Contary to the first answer, tubs are not painted. There are companies that can apply a new finish to the tiles and the tub while they are in place. However, I have found that the process is not very durable. Ask about their warranty- you will see by the short warranty period that these companies know their product won't hold up. Cast iron tubs have an enamelled finish that is baked on. That is why the last for years. Once the finish is compromised (sounds like yours is) very little can be done short of replacement.

Answer 2

Floor tiles are now 12" or 16"s and wall tiles are 8X10-10X13 and you cant go wrong with the earth tones. If there is a Home depot near you look for toprak ceramic tiles imported from Turkey, they are stylish and they should be around $ 0.67 each for the floor tiles. Once you replace the tiles, your vanity/sink and your toilet, Total remodeling without the tub will cost you under $2000 if you are a DIY person. Other wise plan to spend about $5,000 if not more. As long as the tub is in good shape, there is a cleaning solution, usually sold at the dollar stores called "the works" use that and that stuff really does wonders.

Answer 3

The tub can probably be cleaned with a strong detergent, so I would not replace it unless the finish is damaged.

Even if it is, the finish can be replaced. All bets are off, of course, if you don't like the tub or would like to get a different kind for your bathroom.

Replacing the tub will greatly increase your cost.

We have one bathroom that is rather small and I believe our floor tiles are 16 inch. You could probably choose the 12 inch tiles without it detracting from the appearance of the bathroom.

I am big on function over form, so as long as everything in the bathroom works I don't care what it looks like. It certainly beats an outhouse and a galvanized steel tub, which is what my mother grew up with.

Answer 4

You can pay a pro for tub reglazing, which require's removal, treatment, then re-installation of the old tub. Kinda pricey. Why not get smaller tiles in a color complimentary to the beige/brown tiles.

Answer 5

There are companies that do bathtub refinishing. They coat the tub you already have and it costs less than a new tub would cost you (purchase of tub, old tub removal and reinstallation).

Here are some webites I have found. I do not know the city you live in buy at least you can get an idea what you are looking for.
http://www.globalrefinishing.com/
http://www.bathtubrefinishingco.com/
http://www.integritycoatings.com/
http://www.miraclemethod.com/index.htm
http://www.bathtubdoctor.com/
http://www.refinishingonline.com/handicapaccess.htm

Answer 6

If the tub is made from metal you can sand down the old paint, prime it and paint it with rustoleum. For the tile you could also get some spray paint, Krylon has some that is for plastic and that would work well on cermaics. If you sprayed it all white you could just spray right over the grout. Be sure to get the 3M blue masking tape to mask off all your fixtures and other things that you don't want sprayed.

Answer 7

I would not replace it for someone else -- use the money to buy new tiles that would either contrast the the tub or match it.