Over the years, your trusty bathtub can take quite a beating. The years of use will start manifesting themselves on your tub with gouges, scratches, chips and even burns.So, you've decided to finally do something about itYou could always get a new one, but it certainly can end up being an expensive proposition:

* A new bathtub can be quite expensive.
* Bathtub removal is not trivial, so you will need to hire a professional.
* Similarly, bathtub installation requires some skill, so you will probably need to hire someone again.
* Removing and installing a bathtub can take days and even weeks, so you will have to to do without your bathtub in that time period.

Depending on what shape your bath tub is in, you may have several simpler and less expensive options. Let's examine them now...

Before You Buy A New Tub, Look At These Choices

1. Repainting: You can repaint your tub or have someone do it for you. While DIY kits are available, it can be a tricky process, so hiring someone is usually advisable. Even if you hire someone, this process is done within 24 hours and is quite economical. It is a good way to give your tub a shiny new look, maybe even a new color!

2. Bathtub Refinishing: This process essentially puts a new surface on your tub, which can easily last another 20 years, with a little care. Like painting, this is usually done within 24 hours.

3. New Bathtub Lining: A new liner can be installed over your tub, giving it a brand-new look within a few hours.

4. Tub Surrounds: While this does not do anything to the tub itself, the area around it looks better.

Very often, one of the above alternatives will work just fine, but sometimes, nothing but replacing the tub completely will work.