What are my options to upgrade an old bathtub that is stained and losing it's polish?

Tubs can be reglazed for a reasonable fee around $300 to $500, depending on size and color. Reglazing is certainly a cheaper option in time and materials than replacing a tub. The drawback is that reglazing does not last as long as the original tub surface, and it can easily be damaged by careless use.

The surface of a reglazed tub is not heat-fired, so it is "soft" in that dropping a shampoo bottle in the tub can dent or chip off the new surface. Scouring brushes and cleansers also can't be used on the surface, but rather "green" or a mild cleanser such as water and vinegar doesn't damage the finish. Bathmats will also damage the surface, so best to avoid using one. The reglazing company can recommend products to use if the tub is primarily used as a shower, but any product sitting on the surface (including a soap dish) should removed regularly to allow the surface to dry and breathe.

A reglazed surface should last three to five years when properly cared for. However, for a rental property, the lifespan is certainly not as long. The most common problem we see in a rental situation is the lack of cleaning. Dirt can get ingrained in the porous surface, so infrequent cleaning causes staining. Bleach shouldn't be used on reglazed tubs, so the unfortunate solution is to reglaze it again if cleaning doesn't brighten it up.

Our tub was reglazed just over three years ago, and I'm happy with the results. The only damage to the finish is from things being dropped! The tub was fiberglass and some spidering cracks were showing through on the original surface. Reglazing smoothed them out and the new surface has not cracked. We also were able to have a custom color rather than white or bisque. And, while the dark color is harder to keep looking clean, it hasn't faded even in direct sunlight.

I'd definitely recommend reglazing as a first step in lieu of replacing a tub. It's a cost-saving method of dressing up an older bathroom if you're planning to sell or refi your house. We got kudos on our refi as it turned a hideous 80's brown and tan marbled tub into something that looked like it came off a showroom.

And, yes, you can reglaze a jacuzzi tub as well as a "normal" tub!