Reglazing to a Higher Standard

Over my years of experience in the Bathtub Reglazing industry I have come across many people who have a preconceived notion of what Reglazing / Refinishing is. I noticed that many have based their ideas off of personal experience, friends experiences, or chatter from the internet. It has been very hard to establish a trustworthy, professional Reglazing company in an industry that has handymen, painters, and even general contractors "posing" as "Reglazers."

Bathtub Reglazing is very straightforward. There is not secret to the process. However, it is very important to note that the work itself should only be performed by an experienced Reglazing Technician (www.phillipskb.com/pkb_technicians) As in most things, the preparation in Reglazing is extremely important. Not only are the proper steps important to follow but the proper acids / etching solutions, bonding agents, primers, and finish coats need to be used. (www.phillipskb.com/reglazing_material)

I have realized that some "reglazers" feel that it is not important to be upfront with their customers about the specific material being used to refinish the bathtubs. Why is this? Could it be that they may not be using the proper materials? Car paints? Industrial Tool Finishes? Some hide behind the "trade secret" cover up to hold back from giving the information to the customers. At PKB Reglazing we are upfront with the material we use, DUROKOTE II (www.phillipskb.com/reglazing_material). There are some companies who use a local company that sells an inexpensive polyurethane called Cardinal Industrial Paint. This paint is made for Car Finishes and Industrial Tool Finishes and will not withstand the normal use and wear and tear of your Kitchen or Bathroom surfaces. It is very important to ask the questions to any Reglazing Company. Many "reglazers" who are not Licensed, Insured, or Bonded with the State are actually a liability to any customer whose home they work in. What happens if they get injured while using the acids? What happens if they have not been background checked by the state?(http://www.constructionweblinks.com/Resources/Industry_Reports__Newsletters/20080218/cali.html)

It is crucial for every Homeowner, Property Manager, Real Estate Agent to take the initiative and extra steps to finding a great and reliable contractor.

1. Check License Status on State License Board Website (http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)

2. Check Insurances--Workers Compensation, General Liability, Auto Insurances, Bond Information

3. Get References and Phone Numbers--speak to a customer who can share their experience
4. Check reviews online--uncensored reviews from customers (http://www.servicemagic.com/rated.PhillipsKitchenBath.19835607.html) (www.phillipskb.com/testimonials)

5. Find out what material is being used...get the brand name. Anyone can say "two part polyurethane" ask for the MSDS (Manufacturer Safety Data Specifications). You are paying for the job and have the right to know what is being put in your home. Some polyurethanes contain toxins that are not encapsulated and can be harmful.

6. Is the Owner of the company available to be spoken to if needed? There are many "Joe Shmo's" out there doing the work without proper licensing or experience. Kits can be purchased at Home Depots or Lowes that are not going to withstand the normal wear and tear without the proper preparation material. You want to be able to speak to the Owner....many Reglazers are part of a Franchise that just buy into the name. Make the experience personal and get the attention that you neeed.

7. Showroom--do they have a location where you can physically go in and check their work. Most "established" Reglazing companies will have a showroom to display their work and give you the opportunity to meet. This is a great indication as to who is actually established and here to stay.

For  more reasons to choose PKB Reglazing for your Reglazing and Refinishing needs go to www.phillipskb.com/about_us