I can tell you all about it. I bought my house 2 years ago with a
bathtub insert and surround. Looked good, but in reality not very
good. I would estimate the insert and surround to be at least 5 years
old. Not sure which company installed it, probably not Bathtub
Fitters, as they keep a database of past customers and I called them
first when the problem arouse.

Typically refits are 3 to 4 pieces, I have found from my research.
Bathtub insert, surround and ceiling. The problem is keeping the the
insert and surrond where they meet sealed from leaks. A molding type
of stripe was used in my bathroom. But in various places this pulled
away, the strip had lost its stickiness. I used silicone where the
stripe had pulled away from the wall. However one too many hot showers
in one morning caused the stripe to again pull away and water got
between the insert and the bathtub.

As I could not find away to remove the water, after talking to various
people, I decided the best thing to do was to have it all pulled out.
The surrond was replaced with nice tile. And the bathtub refinished
(usually about $250). Its been 3 weeks since the remodel and I LOVE
it. Everything works the way its supposed to and looks great!

I would not recommend bathtub inserts/surronds to anyone unless it is a
short term fix. My bathroom redo was $2400 (MD prices) and included
replacing the plaster wall with cement board. I have to wonder can a
bath refitter do it for so much less?

If I had the money I would have replaced the bathtub too, but decided
to try the refinish on the old tub, even with the mixed longevity on
these finishes I have heard reported.

G'hillside


wrote:
Our bathroom is due for a remodeling. The tub is the major item that
has caused disagreement between me and my wife. It is a 20 something
American Standard enamel model. My wife wants it replaced with the
same type of tub. To avoid the mess I suggested putting in a "Bath
Fitter" acrylic, fit over the old tub alternative that I learned about
on the web. Wife says that since you cannot use powder cleansers (like
Comet) to clean "rings around tub" and there are no 5 or 10 year
installations that we can look at, she is very opposed. Would greatly
appreciate information and opinions about this issue; especially as to
any known problems or possitive information about acrylic bathtubs--new
or fitted over types. Thanks.