Reasons Why Your Bathtub is Discolored

When you look at your bathtub, what do you see? If your answer is stains and discoloration, you are more than likely unhappy with your tub. Discoloration is unsightly and it makes your tub appear as if it is always dirty, no matter how much you clean it. Over time, you can expect your tub to become discolored from different factors over the course of the tub’s life. Below, we will explore some of the reasons why your bathtub is discolored and your options to fix it. 

Soap Scum 

Soap scum is formed when there is a soap product present and hard water. When the two mix together and remain, they form a film-like sticky substance that will adhere to your tub. Soap scum can be hard to remove and cause a grayish discoloration in your tub. 

One of the ways to get rid of soap scum is to install a water softener for your home. You can also avoid certain soap products such as bar soap and utilize body wash instead. 

Hard Water 

Hard water is a criminal when it comes to your tub. As mentioned above, it pairs with soap to make soap scum; however, hard water alone will leave deposits in the tub. These limescale deposits harden over time and can take on an odd color, which discolors the tub. These spots can be hard to remove and will return with the continued use of hard water. 

Hard water is also responsible for causing brown or orange stains around the drains and faucets. The staining mimics rust but is actually from the hard water. 

Mildew 

The sides of the tub are prone to mildew growth and if you look closely, you will probably see the staining. Scrubbing the stains away with a bleach-containing product usually works, but if you have had your tub reglazed, bleach is not recommended to be used in the tub. 

Harsh Chemicals and Cleaners 

Drain cleaners are known to eat the finish on your tub and lead to discoloration. If you need to use a drain cleaner, make sure that it does not get on the finish of the tub and if it does, clean it up immediately. Bleach, acid-containing cleansers, and abrasive cleansers can cause staining and discoloration in your tub. 

Explore Your Options 

You have two main choices when your tub is discolored. First, you can replace your tub. This is a viable option for some homeowners and will eliminate the worry that the tub is stained. This option does come with a price tag though, so it is best to be prepared. 

The second option is to have your tub reglazed. The process of reglazing transforms your tub to look and feel brand new again. Once the tub has been reglazed, the discoloration will be gone. 

With proper upkeep of your tub, you can avoid discoloration. To discuss your NYC bathtub reglazing options or to schedule a free consultation, call White Glove Reglazing today. 

 

Who Is Bathroom Resurfacing Ideal For?

As you look around at your options for a bathroom remodel, you will probably come across bathroom resurfacing at some point in time. You may be wondering if it is an ideal choice for you. Like many others, you are probably looking to save time and money on the remodel itself and bathroom resurfacing is a great way to do that. But who is resurfacing ideal for? Let’s take a look. 

House Flippers

If you are someone who flips houses to rent or resell, then reglazing the bathroom surfaces is an excellent option for you as it is economical and will fit right into your budget. As a house flipper, you do not want to sink more money than needed into repairs for the home, so this is a great option that does not require a fully remodeled bathroom and it will look great. 

People on the Road a Lot 

If you are someone who is on the road a lot for work or you are frequently moving for work, then resurfacing your bathroom is a better option than a complete remodel. Resurfacing is easy, fast, and predictable, which makes the whole process less stressful. More importantly, if you do move a lot and you do resurface your bathroom, your home will hold more value. 

New to Remodeling 

Remodeling is a process and sometimes a long one depending on the project timeline. If you are new to remodeling, you do not necessarily want to start with a full-blown-out project right away, so reglazing is a good option to introduce you to a remodel. 

Many times, reglazing is partnered with smaller remodels or partial remodels to provide you with the look and feel of a new tub and to simply update the bathroom space. If you are not particularly familiar with renovations, this process will allow you to get an idea of what you can expect later on if you do decide to do a full remodel. 

People Without Time 

If you are short on time, reglazing is the way to go. From start to finish, the resurfacing process only takes a few hours and then 24 to 48 hours to dry. This is incredibly faster than having your tub replaced and new tiles laid. Reglazing is a good option for someone who only has one bathroom too. 

Learn More About Tub Reglazing Service in NYC 

If you are interested in tub reglazing service in NYC, we want to talk to you. Resurfacing your tub is a fast, affordable, and easy process that is ideal for most customers. At White Glove Reglazing, we will discuss the process with you and go over the costs associated with it too. Give us a call today. 

Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Decide to Upgrade Your Tub

Are you considering updating your bathtub? If so, you are like many other American homeowners who are tired of the old and outdated bathrooms their homes sport. Getting the bathroom of your dreams is possible but it comes at a cost too. In fact, studies show that the average homeowner should budget around $10,000 or more for a complete bathroom remodel. Woah! Before you jump into the remodeling process, take some time to ask yourself the questions below to ensure you are a) making the right decision, and b) choosing the best options to meet your needs. 

What Type of Tub Do I Currently Have?

Think about the type of tub that you have and if you do not know, figure it out. You will be able to make better and more informed decisions if you know what style tub you are working with. The material the tub is made from will go hand-in-hand with how expensive and difficult upgrading it can be. For example, cast iron tubs weigh more than other options and will cost more to upgrade. In addition, think about where your tub sits and if any plumbing in the bathroom needs to be moved over. Simply moving the plumbing a foot or two can cost you a couple of thousand dollars. 

Does My Tub Have Damage?

There are two main types of categorization when it comes to tub damage. Either the damage is superficial, or the tub is in need of repair. It is important to keep in the back of your mind that some tubs cannot be repaired, and the only option is to replace them. 

Take a look at your tub and identify any rust, discoloration, cracks, breaks, chips, or any other blemishes and concerns you have. 

Have I Had My Tub Reglazed Before?

Reglazing your tub is an option available to most homeowners, but you will need to know if your tub has been reglazed before. If you have had it reglazed previously and it failed, then it is not going to be an option for you and you may need to replace the tub. Sometimes, reglazing fails due to multiple factors and a tub that has been refinished once should not be refinished again. 

What Is Your Goal with Updating the Tub?

There are many reasons to update a tub and your reason may be different than someone else’s. For example, if you want a completely new style and type of tub, then a replacement is what you need. However, if you simply just want a color change, then reglazing is a good choice for this. Think about what exactly you are trying to do in your bathroom and then explore your options. 

Consider Reglazing Your Tub to Get the Upgrade You Want 

Replacing your tub can be expensive and a hassle. Just because you want to upgrade your tub does not mean that you have to completely replace it. In fact, reglazing is an option and in most cases, your tub can be refinished. If you would like to learn more about whether your tub can be reglazed or not, call our bathtub reglazing company today! We are here to help you and can provide you with a quote for service. 

DIY or Professional: Regrouting Tiles in the Bathroom

An area of your home that you probably think the least about is the grout between your bathroom tiles. Most people assume it will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, it does not last a lifetime but lasts a long time. As your grout starts to approach its old age, it will show signs such as pulling away from the tiles or even staining. 

The grout in your bathroom is important because it holds the tiles in place, and keeps water from getting behind them. This is why your shower and tub are lined with tiles. If water makes it past the grout, water damage will occur which can lead to mold issues in the bathroom along with both ants and even termites. 

Unless you are having a complete bathroom remodel performed, you will need to check on your grout and regrout the tiles in your bathroom now and again. One of the questions we generally field is whether regrouting bathroom tiles can be done as a DIY project or if it should be left to the professionals – let’s take a look. 

Keep Tile Regrouting a Professional Job 

Regrouting your tiles can be complicated and it can be a tedious process. In addition, if the grout is not done right, it can lead to serious issues such as water damage. It is best to leave this job to the professionals and for good reason too. Check out the reasons why it is a job for the pros: 

  1. The process takes time. 

When regrouting your tiles, you cannot simply take new grout and place it over the old grout. You will need to make sure you remove ALL the old grout first and this can take time to do. You must make sure that the grout is carved out from every single tile. 

Professionals are able to utilize tools and techniques to get this job done quickly. It can be extremely time-consuming for homeowners to do on their own and you may miss a spot or two. 

  1. It will save you money. 

Regrouting your own tiles seems like the cost-effective choice, but you will need supplies and tools to get the job done. For example, you will need a special power tool to remove the grout from the tiles. While you could use a putty knife to get it out, this would only increase the amount of time it takes to get the grout removed. 

The tools associated with the job can be quite costly, especially for one or two-time use. Professionals have these tools available to them and can use them without you having to purchase the tools yourself. 

  1. It prevents damage and poor-quality products from being used. 

If you do use the power tool to remove the grout from your tiles, a misstep can damage the tile or wall behind the tile. In addition, you may not remove all the grout, which will lead to issues later on down the road with the new grout. Professionals know exactly how much pressure to use when applying the tool and will avoid further damage to your bathroom tiles. 

Lastly, professionals know which products are best to use. While you may think you scored a good deal on the things you need, you may have opted for a poor-quality product, which can result in water damage from a failed product. 

Choose the Right Professional for Your Bathroom Tile Regrouting Job 

When you want to update your bathroom, you can reglaze your bathtub, shower, fixtures, and even tiles. The process will take your outdated bathroom from old to new once again. Our Brooklyn bathtub reglazing service and tile refinishing are just what you need to modernize your bathroom space. In addition, the experts at White Glove Reglazing can regrout your bathroom tiles for you to ensure longevity. Call us today to schedule an appointment. 

Things You Should Probably Know BEFORE You Have Your Tub Resurfaced: As Told By Homeowners

Any major changes you make in your bathroom can be costly and a big decision including having your tub refinished. With that said, it is important that you always take into consideration the options available to you while not assuming that the company you work with will give you all the best data. While there are many good companies out there who are fair and honest, there are equally some out there that will tell you one option is better than another, even though it may not be. 

The burden to do research and learn the best option falls in your lap, so do not take the task lightly. Below, we will share with you some things that other homeowners shared about what they think are the most important things to know before you choose to have your tub reglazed. 

Know Exactly What to Expect 

Homeowners have stated that they wish they had inquired further about what they can expect during the project. The reason for this is that uncertainty can leave you with more questions. The homeowners we spoke with stated that they felt they should have gathered more information about the timeline of the project, the steps involved, and what they needed to do on the day of the project. 

Know How to Clean the Tub 

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is improperly cleaning your tub after it has been reglazed and homeowners would agree with this. To ensure that you get your money’s worth and that the tub lasts, you need to take special care of the glaze, and this means using different chemicals, avoiding certain chemicals, and using different techniques. 

You do not have to worry about any chemical causing the reglazed surface to crack or chip but what you do have to worry about is staining and discoloration from the use of harsh chemicals. You do not want to use bleach or anything that includes bleach in it – it will become a nightmare for you. Choosing less harsh and more eco-friendly cleaning options is best. You also want to use softer sponges and less elbow grease when cleaning to avoid scratching the glaze.

Know the Warranty You Get 

Most companies have a different warranty, and this means that some companies may cover certain things and others do not. It is vital that you inquire and understand the warranty in full. Homeowners who were asked about their warranties stated that they wished they had spent more time discussing it. 

If the company you hire does not offer a warranty, this could be a red flag, especially if the business is new to the market. You want to protect yourself and you want to know that your investment will not be ruined just weeks after the job. 

Make sure to ask about a warranty! 

Talk to Your Reglazing Team 

Don’t be afraid to talk to the company you hire to carry out bathtub refinishing service in your bathroom. A good company is always available for questions and will provide you with thorough, clear, and concise answers. You want to feel confident in who you hire and know that the job will be done well. 

Call White Glove Reglazing today to learn more about our reglazing services, warranties, and pricing. 

Get Rid of Your Bathtub Stains in Just One Afternoon – Here’s How

One of the main focal points in your bathroom is your bathtub and when it is stained from years of use, it looks dirty and can be quite unsightly. Not to mention, it is quite embarrassing when guests see the tub too. Unfortunately, soap scum, rust, and stains can build up over time, and it can feel almost impossible to remove them. If you have tried multiple times to remove these stains with no luck, then this is the blog for you. Below, we will provide you with some tips and tricks to help you get rid of these stains in just a single afternoon. 

Why Does My Tub Have Stains?

Tubs are not free from stains and the main reason why stains happen is due to the layers of the paint and primer wearing down. The wearing down occurs due to the minerals present in your water, so the harder your water, the quicker your tub will wear down. Other reasons for the stains include cosmetics, soap scum, harsh chemicals, and hair dye, amongst other things. 

What Are Some Tips to Avoid Getting Bathtub Stains?

One of the easiest ways to prevent stains is to rinse out your tub after every single use. You should also make sure that you are cleaning your tub to remove any leftover soap or cosmetics in the tub. If you notice any rust or mold, you want to address it immediately to prevent further damage and issues. If your tub is wet after allowing it to air dry, wipe the tub out to keep water off of it. 

Can I Get Rid of the Stains?

You can utilize the tips above to prevent the stains from happening, but to get rid of them, the best option is to have your tub reglazed. Refinishing the tub allows the tub to be sanded down, which will remove any stains from it. Once the tub has been sanded down, it is then reglazed, which results in a tub that is shiny and flawless. 

What Is Bathtub Reglazing?

Bathtub reglazing is a process that is time and cost-effective that refurbishes your current tub in your bathroom. You will find that this process is extremely affordable and is an excellent alternative to replacing your tub. 

Some of the benefits of reglazing your tub include:

  • Non-invasive process 
  • Affordable option 
  • Avoids the risk of removing the tub and breaking tiles 
  • Long-lasting 


Does Your Tub Need to Be Refinished?

If your tub has stains and could use a good makeover, reach out to our Brooklyn tub reglazing company today. We have many years of experience in the industry and provide fast service. If you would like to schedule an appointment, reach out to White Glove Reglazing today. 

 

Tips on How to Update Your Bathroom Tiles Without Completely Replacing Them

The tiles in your bathroom take some abuse over the years and they may start to show it over time. In addition, if you have an older 70s bathroom, you are probably sporting the pink, olive green, blue, or yellow tiles. If your bathroom is outdated but still in relatively good condition, you can have your fixtures and tiles reglazed to give the space a new look. Replacement of bathroom tiles and fixtures can cost a good amount of money, but replacement is not always needed – check out some tips on how to update your bathroom tiles without replacement. 

Paint the Tiles and Grout 

Painting your bathroom tiles is a good way to update the bathroom and get rid of an outdated color or look. It is a cost-effective update; however, it must be done correctly or the paint will fail and start to peel, bubble, and crack. The job can be time-consuming if you do choose to do it yourself, so you may want to hire a professional to do it for you. Painting your tiles allows you to transform your bathroom into any design you want as you can choose any color and design you want. 

You can also take some time to paint and reseal the grout around your tiles. This small change will add a fresh new look to your bathroom. Most grout paint that is used is white in color but there are many different grout paint color options to choose from. You should reseal the tiles fairly often to ensure no water or moisture is making its way behind them. If this happens, you will have a mess on your hands. 

Reglaze or Refinish Your Bathroom Tiles 

Reglazing or refinishing your bathroom tiles is another method to get a clean, modern, and sleek look in your bathroom. The process involves placing a thin layer of glaze onto the tiles and then allowing it to dry. Reglazing is excellent for homeowners whose tiles are still in good condition but may be outdated in color or have staining on them. 

During the reglazing process, the grout will be cleaned, and any cracked tiles can be mended as well. 

Start Your Reglazing Project Today 

When your bathroom needs a freshening up, choosing to have your tiles or tub reglazed is a great choice. The experts at White Glove Reglazing offer the best bathtub refinishing service locally and our experts have the experience needed to breathe life into your bathroom. Call us today to schedule an appointment for a consultation. 

How to Properly Maintain a Reglazed Tub

Now that your tub is freshly reglazed, you need to know how to care for it. Taking proper care of the tub will ensure that it lasts for many years to come. There are some steps you need to take to ensure that your tub stays looking brand new and cleaning it is one of the most essential steps to make this happen. There are many dos and don’ts about cleaning the tub, but what some people do not know are what products to use and which products to avoid. Most bathroom cleaners have harsh chemicals in them and these chemicals can damage or ruin your new glaze. Below, we will talk more about what chemicals to avoid and how you can maintain your tub properly. 

Cleaners to Avoid in a Reglazed Tub 

  • Bleach 
  • Ammonia 
  • Corrosive drain cleaners 
  • Powdered cleaners 
  • Products that are fragranced artificially 
  • Abrasive cream or gel cleansers 

Cleaners to Use in a Reglazed Tub 

  • Non-scratch scrub pads 
  • Dish soap 
  • Water and vinegar mixture 
  • Scrubbing bubbles 


Tips for Maintaining Your Reglazed Bathtub 

  • Use the bathroom’s exhaust fan when showering to prevent moisture build-up 
  • Check the tub at least weekly for any signs of drips or leaks and correct them when needed 
  • Avoid standing or pooling water in the tub 
  • Wipe down your tub daily and keep it dry 
  • Remove soap from the walls of the tub and avoid the buildup of soap scum 
  • Use non-abrasive scrubbing pads and cleaners 
  • Avoid oil-based cleaners in the tub as they can cause a slippery surface 
  • Do not use bath mats with suction cups 
  • Avoid abrasive, gel, and powdered cleansers can wear down the surface quickly 
  • Only use soft sponges and cloths in the tub 
  • DIY cleaning agents or eco-friendly options are best 
  • Always rinse your tub thoroughly with water after you clean it to remove the cleaner 


Our Professionals Can Provide You with Additional Tips to Care for Your Tub 

Our Brooklyn bathtub reglazing service is affordable and will leave your tub looking brand new once again. If you have had your tub refinished recently and are unsure of how to care for it or you have a question about a specific chemical, reach out to the experts at White Glove Reglazing today! We are always here to help. 

Thinking of a Tub or Shower Liner? Here’s What You Need to Know First

When it comes to remodeling or updating the fixtures in your bathroom, there are many options. In fact, if you have been to a local big box store lately, you have probably felt overwhelmed with all the decisions and choices to make. One of the options available to you when it comes to your current bathtub or shower is a liner. These liners are a popular option and you have likely seen the kiosk in the home improvement store trying to sell them to customers. A tub liner is basically another tub that is just glued onto your current one – the same goes for a shower liner. While it sounds like an easy and feasible option, there are pros and cons to it and you need to know them before you invest in one. 

The Positives Of Tub and Shower Liners 

Tub and shower liners can be quite lucrative to homeowners who want a quick fix in their bathroom or want to hide blemishes. Why are homeowners choosing these liners?

  • They are affordable 
  • They cannot have their tub reglazed 
  • They are in a time crunch 

Tub and shower liners are affordable when compared to a bathroom remodel, which may include tub or shower replacement. In fact, the average tub liner can run you about $1,000 or more depending on the material, quality, and additional amenities on it. While it may sound expensive at first glance, a remodel can cost you several thousand dollars, so it is cheaper in comparison. 

Another reason that homeowners choose the liner is that it does not take long to install. In fact, the process is quite simple and straightforward. Once the glue is dried, you can use the tub or shower. 

Lastly, a tub that has already been reglazed previously may not be an ideal candidate for reglazing again, which leaves the homeowner limited on what they can do. 

The Negatives Of Tub and Shower Liners 

Even though these liners are a popular option, they are not always the best option. A liner is meant to be a permanent solution, which means a strong cement-like glue is used to adhere it in place. If the liner is ever removed, it is pretty much impossible to remove the old cement-like glue, which means the tub or shower will need to be replaced and this can be costly. 

Another downside and probably the worst of them is that water can become stuck between the liner and the tub itself. This can happen for a number of reasons and when it does, you have a problem on your hands. You will know this is happening if when you get into your tub or shower, it feels as though it is floating. This is due to the water that is trapped. Trapped water equals mold and mildew, which is a serious health hazard and can quickly grow out of control in this environment. Last but not least, the tub’s structure can become damaged due to the standing water behind the liner. 

Call Us Today to Discuss Reglazing Your Bathtub or Shower 

The idea behind shower and tub liners is a good one but they are not always practical for homeowners. In fact, homeowners are better off choosing to reglaze their tub or shower as opposed to replacing or opting for the liner. You will avoid many different problems that can arise and reglazing your tub will make it look brand new again. 

If you are searching for a reputable bathtub reglazing company, we have been named number one in NYC and can assist you in choosing the right option for your tub. Give White Glove Reglazing a call today to learn more or to schedule a consultation. 

Is It a Good Idea to Refinish My Porcelain Tub?

If you are asking yourself whether refinishing your porcelain tub is a good idea or not, to put it simply, it is. Refinishing also referred to as reglazing, is a durable and clean process that will breathe life back into your worn-out, damaged, or old bathtub. The process only takes a few hours, is affordable, and you will think your tub is brand new once again. 

Is My Tub Porcelain?

Chances are that it is. In fact, about 50 percent of all bathtubs that are manufactured throughout the US are porcelain. It is a popular option in most homes and you can find them in a few different styles from the standard to square and even claw foot. 

Porcelain tubs are made from a cast iron or steel body that has been coated with porcelain enamel. Unless your tub has been chipped or suffered damage, you are unlikely to ever see the metal layer, as the porcelain is thick. 

These tubs are popular in many homes because they are impact, stain, and scratch-resistant. 

What Can Reglazing Do for My Porcelain Bathtub?

Reglazing your porcelain tub can restore it to a like-new condition. One of the most common problems that it solves is chips. Chips often occur when something heavy is dropped into the tub or something that is pointy in nature hits the tub. This results in a piece of the coating chipping away. 

Another problem that can be solved with reglazing is discoloration, which usually occurs over time. If your tub’s color has faded or become dull, reglazing can help liven it back up. Many people will choose to have their tub reglazed when it is an old or outdated color as well such as a dusty blue, olive green, or pink. 

Furthermore, tubs that have suffered corrosion around the drain or overflow area can have this corrected through the process of reglazing. 

Cost Associated with Refinishing a Porcelain Tub 

The actual cost you pay will depend on several factors including: 

  • Type of tub 
  • Size of tub 
  • Location of the property 
  • Status of the tub (has it been resurfaced before?)
  • Current damage or repairs needed 

The average cost to reglaze a standard porcelain tub is about $450 but can be higher or lower depending on the factors above. 

Should I Refinish My Tub?

Choosing to refinish your bathtub is a good decision because you will save time and money and you can avoid having to replace the tub completely. Many of the common problems that tubs face can be resolved with refinishing, which makes it an ideal choice for any bathroom makeover. 

If you are interested in NYC tub refinishing service, reach out to our experts at White Glove Reglazing. Our team can discuss your tub with you and the process of having it reglazed. Call now for a consultation and estimate.