Bathtubs can last for decades. However, acrylic or fiberglass tubs and showers may crack or develop blemishes, and cast iron or enameled steel tubs can rust, chip, or crack. If you’re not ready to replace the tub, it can be refinished. Another option is a bathtub liner. A bathtub or shower liner is a solid, single piece of acrylic or PVC plastic that fits inside a bathtub like a second bathtub. It matches the contours of the bathtub and seamlessly meets up with the drain hole, walls, and floor, looking just like a conventional bathtub. Unlike refinishing, which applies a spray coating of epoxy, urethane, or polymer material, a liner is a solid unit molded in a factory and then installed inside a bathtub. Since it’s not a spray coating, it cannot be scratched off.
Bathtub liners come in two parts: a bottom unit that fits over the bathtub or shower pan, and an optional upper section, the surround, that extends from the edge of the bathtub or shower pan up the walls.
When considering a liner for your bathtub or shower, be aware that liners may make the surface feel weak, spongy, or unstable. This is due to the added material layer, which also causes the inside of your bathtub to shrink slightly.
Installation of a bathtub or shower liner is not a DIY-friendly task. It is both challenging and has limited accessibility, making it necessary to call a professional bathtub liner company for the job. A technician will visit to take precise measurements and photos of your bathtub or shower unit. This step is crucial for ordering the correct liner. The ordered liner is an exact replica of your bathtub unit, made from 1/4-inch thick ABS or PVC using vacuum-form technology. The acrylic shell, similar to materials used in many tub and shower units, is thinner and can take up to eight weeks to prepare. Once the liner arrives, installation is a quick process, taking only a few hours. It involves removing old fixtures and drain fittings, then inserting the shell over the old tub or shower unit with silicone adhesives and two-sided tape. Finishing the installation includes installing new drain, overflow, stopper, and faucet fixtures, followed by cleaning the work area. The entire process typically takes about one day. The Spruce relies on high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our content. For more on our editorial process, please refer to our guidelines. For further reading on mold and dampness, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and for cost considerations, consult Forbes Home.