Most people hear “reglazing” and think one thing: quick, cheap alternative to replacing a tub.

And that’s true.

But here’s what most homeowners don’t realize…

👉 The entire success of a reglazing job has almost nothing to do with the final coat
…and everything to do with what happens before it.

That’s where the real difference is made between a finish that lasts years and one that starts peeling in months.

At Fitzgerald’s Creative Coatings, the process isn’t rushed, simplified, or cut short. Every tub goes through the same detailed system because skipping steps doesn’t save time… it just guarantees problems later.

Let’s walk through what actually happens behind the scenes.

🧼 Step 1: It Starts With a Surface That’s Truly Clean

This isn’t your typical “scrub and go.”

Before anything is applied, the tub is completely stripped down removing:

• Soap scum buildup

• Body oils

• Cleaning product residue

• Any previous coatings or finishes

Why does this matter so much?

Because even the smallest bit of leftover residue can break the bond between the surface and the new coating.

And when that happens?
You get peeling. Bubbling. Chipping.

Not immediately but inevitably.

This step is the foundation. If it’s not done right, nothing that follows will hold up the way it should.

🔧 Step 2: Fix What You Can’t Ignore Later

Once the surface is clean, the next focus is damage control.

Chips. Cracks. Rough spots.

This is where a lot of companies cut corners because it takes time, skill, and patience to do it right.

But here’s the truth:

A small crack today becomes a major failure point tomorrow.

Left untreated, it can:

• Spread underneath the finish

• Let moisture seep in

• Compromise the entire surface

So instead of covering it up, we eliminate it.

Each damaged area is:

• Carefully filled

• Smoothed perfectly flush

• Allowed to cure fully

The goal?
A surface that looks and acts like it was never damaged in the first place.

🎨 Step 3: The Layers That Actually Make It Last

Now comes the part most people think is the whole job… but it’s really just the final phase.

Reglazing isn’t a single coating - it’s a layered system, and each layer has a job to do.

1. Primer

This is the chemical handshake between the tub and the new finish.
Skip it or use the wrong one and the entire job is compromised before it begins.

2. Bonding Agent

This is where durability comes from.
It locks everything together so the finish can handle:

• Daily use

• Cleaning products

• Temperature changes

3. Topcoat

This is the part you see and the part everyone notices.

Applied in smooth, even passes, it creates that glossy, like-new finish.

But here’s the catch:
Even a perfect topcoat can’t fix bad prep.

And applying it correctly takes real experience because:

• Uneven passes show

• Dust ruins the surface

• Rushing creates defects

This is where craftsmanship matters just as much as materials.

⏳ Step 4: The Step Most People Rush (and Regret)

Once the coating is done, the job isn’t finished.

It needs time to cure.

This is where a lot of DIY jobs and even some rushed professional ones - fall apart.

Use the tub too soon, and you risk:

• Soft spots

• Premature wear

• Permanent damage to the finish

Done right, though?
You’re left with a surface that’s:

• Smooth

• Durable

• Built to last

💡 So… What Makes a Reglaze Actually Last?

It’s not just the product.

It’s not just the price.

It’s the process.

A reglazing job will only be as good as:

• The prep work

• The repairs

• The application

• The patience to let it cure properly

Cut corners anywhere along the way… and the finish will tell on you later.

📘 Want to Know Exactly What to Look For?

Most homeowners don’t know what questions to ask or what separates a quality job from a quick one.

That’s exactly why I created:

The Ultimate Reglazing Guide

Inside, you’ll learn:

• What to expect from start to finish

• What red flags to watch for

• How to make sure the job is done right the first time

👉 Download it here

🛁 Thinking About Reglazing Your Tub?

When you’re ready, we’re here.

Every project we take on follows the same standard you just read about:

• No shortcuts

• No rushed prep

• No guesswork

Just a process designed to give you a finish that looks better and lasts longer.

Reach out today, and let’s talk about what your tub actually needs.