Bath Refinishing FAQs

Proven to be the best process for long-term bathtub refinishing coating lifespan, an etch-primer-acrylic poly-urethane topcoat process ensures that your finish lasts longer.  It is one of the most cost-effective approaches to bathtub refinishing.  

Etching Process

CALbath uses a specialized etching process for long-term bathtub refinishing.  The process applies a thin and durable coat to existing bathtub surfaces and uses a stabilized, safe etching primer solution applied to porcelain or ceramic surfaces that maximizes a permanent bond to the original underlying layer. All surfaces - fiberglass, acrylic, or other substrates - are thoroughly treated to amplify the adhesion.

Primer

CALbath uses a special underwater primer epoxy adhesive that permanently sticks to the substrate using a molecular bonding process. This unique process dramatically extends the life of treated surfaces.

Acrylic Poly-urethane

Bathtub refinishes that provide long life and durability are what you get with acrylic urethane topcoats.  CALbath cosmetic acrylic, poly urethane topcoats provide high-gloss, impact and scuff-resistant protection against acids and solvents.  Acrylic urethane refinishing is a cost-effective and effective approach to extending the life of your bathtub or shower.

Yes, CALbath is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. California State law requires a state contractor’s license for any service over $500.00. Protect yourself and your property by making sure your contractor is properly licensed and can provide references from satisfied customers. View our license on the CA state license website.

No. New porcelain requires heating of the fixture on a kiln. Our product has been specifically designed for onsite use compatible with ceramic substrates and bath applications, and meets the highest performance and quality standards.

Not really. Nationwide, the average cost for replacement is around $5,000, after totaling purchase, removal and replacement of the tub, plumbing, flooring, dry wall and tub surround. In addition, the quality of a replacement tub is likely to be lower than that of the original fixture, and requires from several days to two weeks to install. With the CALbath 48-hour turn-around, we can save you time and money every step of the way.

Our finish has been tested to last well over ten years, and is backed with a five-year guarantee covering any workmanship or product defects. We do not use epoxies, which will discolor and peel. With proper cleaning and care, our system should provide a new looking fixture for many years.

Shower doors and tracks must be removed to provide the highest quality job. CALbath offers very affordable removal and replacement of existing tracks and doors. Often customers choose to install new tracks and doors to accent their refinished tub. As an authorized dealer for many shower door manufacturers, CALbath provides you with a wide selection of new tracks and doors for purchase and installation.

CALbath refinishes:

Reglazing is a coined word used in the refinishing industry and is a special surface repair and refinishing process designed for bathtubs and other porcelain fixtures. It is frequently used on laminate counters, wall tile and fiberglass. The process is done in-place without heat and the material used produces a very hard simulated porcelain that looks and feels like a brand new porcelain finish.

Porcelain bathtubs and sinks, fiberglass bathtubs and showers, laminate counters, wall tile, tile counters and showers, cultured marble counters, and old appliances are all commonly refinished. We have samples in our show room plus many before and after shots.

Yes. We can match any color you choose; our standard colors are white and almond, which are the most common colors for porcelain finishes. Other colors can be reproduced for an additional charge.

This is one of our most popular service requests. Fiberglass bathtubs and showers commonly crack over a period of time particularly when not well supported. Many home owners think they have to replace the entire unit - but CALbath can repair it on site at a much lower cost. When cracks occur from insufficient support below the tub or shower floor unit, we completely rebuild the subfloor beneath the unit, re-fiberglass entire floor and refinish it to look like new.

Yes, we have showrooms in Newport Beach, San Marcos, San Diego and San Jose. Call us or come by any time during business hours. See Locations for addresses and maps.

There are a lot of reasons to choose CALbath. We’ve been in business since 1991, and are fully licensed and insured. Our prices are very competitive. And, unlike many competitors, our full-time employees, are always here to help you. We are one of the original refinishing companies operating in the Los Angeles area. Go with an established proven company you can trust. For a list of other good reasons to use us over our competition, see About Us.