Refinishing - Frequently Asked Questions
In our many years of service throughout California, we have been asked many different questions about our high quality refinishing. Here are some of the most frequent asked questions and answers.
What exactly is refinishing?
Refinishing is a process during which we take many of your existing kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and repair the existing surface and apply a new one. We can repair porcelain chips, cracked fiberglass, cracked tile, and burned Formica. Etc., and apply several coats of our extremely durable polymer coating over them. It comes in many colors and finishes to simulate the natural look of the original fixture, but a fraction of the cost and time involved in getting a new one.
Are you licensed?
Of course, 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. Click here for CA state license website.
Do you put new porcelain on the tub?
No. New porcelain requires heating of the fixture on a kiln. Our product has been specifically designed for use on site with ceramic substrates and for bath applications, and meets the highest standards of performance and quality.
Isn’t it cheaper to buy a new tub?
Absolutely not. Nationwide, the average cost for replacement is around $3,900.00, 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 several days to two weeks to install. With our 48 hour turn-around, we can save you time and money in nearly every instance.
How long will the new finish last?
Our finish has been tested to last well over ten years, and is backed with a 5-year guarantee covering any workmanship or product defects. We do not use epoxies, which will discolor and peel, and with proper cleaning and care, our system should provide a new looking fixture for many years. Click here for Care & Maintenance Form.
Do you change any of the plumbing fixtures?
Sometimes. On a standard job, we will leave most or all of the plumbing trim alone, except for the removal of old caulking. We can, upon request, remove some of the plumbing trim for refinishing, and replace it once the coating has cured, or arrange for the purchase and installation of new fixture trim or a new plumbing valve and trim. We cannot, however, be responsible for breakage occurring due to old or worn plumbing found on many jobs we encounter. May I turn off the water to the bathroom instead if repairing a leaky faucet? No. Our technicians need water to clean and prepare the surfaces for refinishing. In addition, a leaky faucet can damage a newly refinished surface.
What about shower doors and tub enclosures?
Shower doors and tracks must be removed to provide the highest quality job. For a small fee, we provide removal and replacement of existing tracks and doors. Many customers, however, choose to install new tracks and doors to accent their refinished tub. We are an authorized dealer for many shower door manufacturers, and can provide you with a wide selection of new tracks and doors for purchase and installation. Click here for Shower Door info.
Do you refinish sinks and tile also?
Certainly. Both tile and sinks can be refinished the same way as a porcelain tub. Tile may need regrouting before refinishing, but after refinishing the grout will no longer harbor mildew- NO more scrubbing!
Do you have a warranty?
Absolutely. A solid five year warranty is standard. For a slight fee we can extend it to a lifetime warranty
Click here to see Warranty.
If you have any other questions you wish to have answered, or would like to arrange for an estimate, please call us. We are more than happy to help you in any possible way.
