Bathtub replacement is a common project in homes with chipped, stained, or cracked tubs that no longer hold up to daily use. New acrylic alcove tubs install quickly and are a good fit for guest baths, hall baths, and homes with kids.
Refinishing a tub (re-glazing the surface) is a short-term fix that typically lasts five to ten years and chips again. Replacement is a permanent fix and usually the right choice when the tub is also taking on water around the surround. Cost difference is smaller than most homeowners expect.
Acrylic tubs are the most common replacement choice in Indianapolis. They are lightweight, install quickly, and resist chipping. Porcelain-enameled steel tubs are slightly heavier and more durable but show wear over time. Cast iron tubs (including Kohler and American Standard models) are the most durable and produce the best heat retention but are heavy enough that bathroom floor framing should be checked.
Most tub replacements include new tile or acrylic walls. A standard alcove tub uses a 60-inch wide surround. Acrylic surrounds install in one day. Tile surrounds take five to seven days because of waterproofing, mortar, and grout work.
An acrylic tub replacement with new acrylic walls typically runs $5,500 to $11,000. A cast iron tub with a tile surround usually falls in a $9,000 to $18,000 range.
An acrylic tub and surround replacement is usually completed in one to two days. A tub with a new tile surround takes five to eight days.
Yes. Old shower and tub valves are usually rusted, leaking, or out of warranty. Replacing the valve when the wall is open is much easier than doing it later.
