Should I replace my cast iron tub or refinish it during my renovation?

Refinishing your cast iron tub is often the smarter choice — these vintage fixtures are incredibly durable and can look stunning with proper restoration, plus you'll save thousands compared to replacement.

Cost considerations make refinishing attractive for most New Brunswick homeowners. Professional tub refinishing runs $800-$1,500, while a quality replacement cast iron tub costs $2,000-$5,000 before installation. Factor in plumbing modifications (often $1,500-$3,000), potential tile work, and disposal of the old tub, and replacement easily hits $8,000-$12,000 total.

Your home's age matters significantly in this decision. If you're in one of New Brunswick's older homes — whether it's a Victorian in Fredericton's University Avenue area, a Loyalist-era home in Saint John's Uptown, or a farmhouse in the river valleys — that cast iron tub likely has character worth preserving. These tubs were built to last decades longer than modern alternatives and often feature desirable deep soaking dimensions that newer tubs don't match.

Refinishing works best when the tub's structure is sound but the surface is worn, stained, or chipped. Professional refinishing involves chemical stripping, repair of chips or cracks, primer application, and multiple topcoat layers. A quality job should last 15-20 years with proper care. The process takes 1-2 days and requires good ventilation due to chemical fumes.

Consider replacement if you're finding structural cracks, significant rust-through, or if the tub doesn't fit your renovation goals (switching from tub to shower, for example). Modern acrylic or fiberglass units are lighter and easier to install, which matters in older homes where floor reinforcement might be needed for cast iron.

Plumbing permits aren't typically required for refinishing, but replacement work needs a plumbing permit from NB Technical Inspection Services and must be done by a licensed plumber. The work also requires a licensed electrical contractor if you're adding new lighting or ventilation.

Your next step: Get quotes for both options from contractors in our New Brunswick directory, but lean toward refinishing unless you have compelling reasons to replace. Most homeowners are amazed at how beautiful their old cast iron tub looks after professional restoration.