How Much Does Porcelain Sink Refinishing Cost? [2024 Data]

Porcelain Sink Refinishing or Reglazing Cost Factors

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Due to the precision required, labor costs account for most of the price to refinish a porcelain sink. Several other factors will also influence how much of an investment this project requires.

Sink Size

The average cost estimates for refinishing porcelain sinks are exclusive to standard-sized sinks. Most round bathroom sink bowls have diameters between 16 and 20 inches. Standard-sized rectangular sinks typically range from 15-by-16 to 20-by-25. A standard basin depth for a porcelain sink is 5 to 8 inches. Larger sinks deviating from these norms will cost more to refinish.

Sink Condition

If a porcelain sink has hairline cracks, specialized epoxy can fill the gaps. Crack repair during sink refinishing can add between $50 and $100 per crack to the project. If the structural damage is too severe and a porcelain sink repair isn’t possible, a full sink replacement costs between $400 and $800.

Type of Sink

A porcelain sink's style can impact the level of detail needed. While the cost range for refinishing porcelain sinks is between $220 and $500, refinishing a specialty sink costs more. The average cost for refinishing a pedestal sink is closer to $400. A freestanding sink with an upper basin and a lower shaft will cost around $450.

If you're looking to refinish an oversized, specialty farmhouse kitchen sink, you might need to add up to $800 to your kitchen remodel cost. Standard drop-in sinks with visible lipping are usually the least expensive to refinish.

Materials

The cost of refinishing a sink will vary depending on the material and severity of the damage. Porcelain or stainless steel sinks are typically the least expensive to refinish. Specialty materials like cast iron or granite will cost more to refinish. Depending on the material, refinishing costs between $100 and $500.

Labor

Labor for refinishing a porcelain sink costs around $100 to $300 per project. Professional sink refinishers typically price their rates based on sink type, the condition of the sink, and the amount of prep work needed. Labor for this project includes:

• Taping off the area surrounding the sink

• Removing sink hardware and trim

• Sanding and priming

• Applying several coats of finish or epoxy

• Replacing hardware and trim   

While most sink refinishers charge per project, those that charge by the hour may charge an hourly rate between $50 and $200. An average refinishing project could take anywhere from two to five hours.

Sink Refinishing Costs by Type 

Here is what you can expect to pay to refinish four different types of sinks: drop-in sinks in the bathroom and kitchen, bathroom pedestal sinks, and custom kitchen sinks.

Bathroom Drop-In Sink

Refinishing a bathroom drop-in sink is relatively affordable. In most cases, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for the materials and labor. You may be able to find a refinishing kit that includes everything you need for less than $100.

Bathroom Pedestal Sink

The cost to refinish a bathroom pedestal sink ranges from $250 to $450. For example, a small ceramic sink might only require a few hours of work and a can of paint, while a larger sink with severe chips or cracks will require more extensive repair work.

Drop-In Kitchen Sink

The cost of refinishing a drop-in kitchen sink will depend on the size and condition of the existing finish. If you have a small sink made from porcelain or stainless steel, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for refinishing services. However, if you have a larger sink made from marble or granite, refinishing costs can increase to $500 or more.

Custom Kitchen Sink

You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 to refinish a custom kitchen sink. While this may seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that a custom kitchen sink is an investment that will last for many years. A custom kitchen sink can provide years of beauty and function with proper care and maintenance.

Cost to Refinish Sinks by Material

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Sinks come in a variety of materials, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Some materials are more durable than others, while some are easier to clean. When choosing a sink material, it's important to consider cost and durability. 

Refinishing a sink is generally less expensive than replacing it, so opting for a more durable material may save you money in the long run. Here's a look at the average cost to refinish sinks by material.

Porcelain Sink

The average cost to refinish a porcelain sink is between $100 and $200. The process generally includes sanding down the existing finish, applying a new finish, and polishing the sink to a high shine. The type of finish will affect the overall cost, as well as the type of sink. For example, a porcelain pedestal sink with an upper basin and lower shaft will cost more to refinish than a drop-in sink. 

Cast-Iron Sink

While many homeowners enjoy the classic look of a cast-iron sink, they may not realize that these sinks require a bit more care than others. In particular, cast-iron sinks are susceptible to rust and corrosion, so they may need refinishing every few years. The average cost to refinish a cast iron sink is between $300 and $500, depending on the size of the sink and the level of damage sustained over the years. 

Stainless Steel Sink

Over time, even durable stainless steel sinks can start to show their age. If your sink is starting to look dull or scratched, you may be considering a refinishing job to keep your stainless steel sink looking new. On average, you can expect to pay around $300 to $450 to make your trusty stainless steel sink look new again. 

Granite Sink

On average, having your granite sink refinished costs between $200 and $500. The exact cost will depend on the size of your sink and the type of finish you choose. 

Cost to Refinish a Porcelain Sink Yourself

Porcelain refinishing kits are available for around $50. While these kits are tempting for homeowners looking to get a quick DIY job done, using the right techniques in conjunction with the appropriate epoxy paint is essential.

The most time-consuming aspect of refinishing a porcelain sink is sanding down the existing finish. You’ll then need to buff the entire surface of the sink with wet-dry sandpaper to allow the new finish to stick. The process requires several coats over the course of three days to allow for adequate drying times. 

A DIY homeowner must feel confident about their ability to properly mix and apply epoxy paint with a fine-bristle varnishing brush without making mistakes. However, pros typically use an airless sprayer to create a more precise finish. Color matching is also important to ensure a cohesive look. Using the wrong epoxy paint shade could enhance the appearance of filled-in hairline cracks.

DIY Costs vs. Hiring a Pro

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Most DIY porcelain refinishing kits cost between $50 and $100. Homeowners can also expect to pay around $50 for sandpaper, brushes, tape, and putty. Doing this project yourself saves the $100 to $300 in labor costs to have a pro finish this project. 

Keep in mind that the condition, size, and type of sink can all drive up the cost. If you prefer not to take on the intricacies of this project, hire a local sink reglazing pro to restore your sink. 

Ways You Can Save Money on Refinishing a Porcelain Sink

While you may not feel prepared to handle the complex, detail-oriented task of refinishing a porcelain sink with epoxy paint, you may be able to get the price knocked down a bit by handling some of the prep work yourself. Homeowners may save on labor costs by handling sink cleaning, removing hardware, and taping the area around the sink.