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Homeowners may decide to update a bathtub with a bath liner instead of fully replacing an old or outdated tub. Replacing a tub can cost up to $6,000, while installing a bath liner to cover the old fixture will be much less. The national average cost to purchase and install a bath liner is $2,000. Prices range from $850 to $3,200 total, including the liner, supplies and cleanup.
NOTE: The beginning half of 2021 has seen an unprecedented labor shortage as a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. In conjunction with this, demand for materials and construction jobs has skyrocketed. As a result, material prices may be higher than those reported in this article, and lead times may be longer than usual for both labor and materials.
Bath liners can be made from a variety of materials, most commonly polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and acrylic. PVC liners are more affordable at an average of $850. They come in countless colors, making it easy for homeowners to match their tub with their desired look.
Acrylic liners can be more expensive than PVC liners, costing between $700 and $1,400 per liner. Acrylic is the most widely used type of tub liner. Homeowners justify its extra cost because of its durability and longevity. Acrylic bath liners can last up to 15 years. You May Also Be Interested In Steam Showers Available On Home Depot1 Steam Planet Jupiter PlusCost $3846Size 43 in. x 31 in. x 86 in.Jets 8-body Massage Jets1 Steam Planet Jupiter PlusBuy Now On Home Depot 2 Steam Planet Orion PlusCost $4308Size 59 in. x 40 in. x 86 in.Jets 8-body Massage Jets2 Steam Planet Orion PlusBuy Now On Home Depot 3 Steam Planet Universe PlusCost $5077Size 48 in. x 48 in. x 90 in.Jets 12-body Massage Jets3 Steam Planet Universe PlusBuy Now On Home Depot 4 Steam Planet Galaxy Deluxe PlusCost $5999Size 60 in. x 41 in. x 87 in.Jets 12-body Massage Jets4 Steam Planet Galaxy Deluxe PlusBuy Now On Home Depot (Note: All details and prices are accurate as of publication and are subject to change.)
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Labor costs associated with tub liners range from $730 to $1,830. On average, expect to pay $1,200 for professional labor.
PVC liners usually cost less and are at the lower end of that range, while acrylic bath liners are more expensive.
The final cost to purchase and install a tub liner will depend on whether or not you need a wall surround, which adds matching panels to the walls surrounding the tub as well as additional soap shelves, grab bars and other options. Installation of both a tub liner and a wall surround will be $1,200 to $4,000.
The total cost to replace a tub liner will include costs associated with the labor of removing the old liner as well as the material costs for a new liner. Removing a tub liner can be challenging, so hiring a professional may be necessary to avoid accidental cracks or scrapes.
The process of removing the liner, disposing of debris and cleaning up afterward will cost between $450 and $1,100.
At this point, you will need to purchase a new liner, which will cost between $850 and $3,200. In total, a tub liner replacement will be between $1,300 and $4,300.
The cost of a shower liner ranges from about $800 to $900. Where your liner falls on that spectrum will depend on whether or not you opt for shelving and other accessories.
Basic labor costs associated with shower liners will be between $300 and $500, while job supplies will be about $40. The total cost, including materials and labor, will be between $1,100 and $1,500.
You may need to replace a shower liner after its wear and tear become an issue. Before installing a new liner, you’ll need to remove the old liner and dispose of those materials. The process of removing a shower liner is tricky in order to avoid damaging the underlying shower.
If you choose to hire a professional to complete this part, expect to pay between $450 and $1,100.
If you DIY a shower liner removal, you may only need to pay for tools, which will likely be less than $50. But hiring a professional is advised in most cases as any cracks or damage imposed to the underlying shower could cause future problems in the seal of the replacement liner. In that case, you’ll need to go back to square one to replace the liner.
The cost to install a bathtub or shower liner will depend on what the liner is made from and whether or not it’s customized. PVC liners are the least expensive option at about $850 per liner, and acrylic liners can go for $3,000 and beyond.
If your tub or shower liner is simple, installation costs will be lower than costs to install a custom liner with shelving and other accessories. The price range to expect to install a bath liner is $2,000 to $6,500. Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Bathroom Remodelers Free, No-commitment Estimates Find A Bathroom Remodeler
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Bathroom Remodelers
Refinishing a bathtub gives it a fresh look without spending thousands of dollars to fully replace it. On average, refinishing a tub costs $500. These projects can cost as little as $200 on the low end and $1,000 on the higher end.
Some materials are easier to work with than others when it comes to refinishing. Refinishing a tub involves sanding down the old finish and painting a new one. While this project can be a DIY one, professionals are often called in to make sure things don’t go awry. Ask your contractor about the material of your bathtub before starting work.
Fiberglass tubs will be the most expensive to refinish, costing between $300 and $1,000. That’s because fiberglass may need additional work to fix things aside from minor cracks.
Porcelain is a bit less at $350 to $600, about $500 on average. If you have a porcelain tub, hire a pro to refinish it. Porcelain tubs need more care as they are likely over 100 years old.
One great thing about refinishing a tub is that you can paint it any color you want. Painting the enamel on an old bathtub will cost between $350 and $600.
Tub liners fit over your current tub perfectly. The liners give a look of a brand new tub without the costs or labor associated with installing a new one.
Sealants attach the liner to your current tub. As long as they are installed correctly, liners will fit your tub seamlessly and prevent leaks. Tub liners are great options for homeowners looking to renovate or update their bathroom without gutting it completely.
Yes. Tub and shower liners come in a wide variety of styles, colors and sizes. Shop around at your local hardware stores as well as online retailers to find one that fits your desired look. If you can’t find what you need, look into custom options.
Bath and shower liners will last up to 15 years, depending on the strength of the liner. Acrylic liners will last longer than PVC liners because they are more durable. If you use an acrylic liner and have a skilled contractor install it, it can last up to 15 years before it needs to be replaced.
Lauren is an accomplished freelance writer who covers a variety of topics, including home improvement, sustainability and more. Her background in news reporting allows her to look at topics from all angles and break things down into digestible content that’s useful to every reader. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Lauren thinking up her next DIY project or exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her pup.
Samantha is an editor who covers all topics home-related including home improvement and repair. She edited home repair and design content at websites like The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. She also has hosted videos on DIY home tips and solutions and launched multiple home improvement review boards staffed with licensed pros.