Asked on Jan 12, 2012
Cracks in fiberglass tub
by
Allyson H
+7
We have a fiberglass bath/shower insert that has a few small hairline cracks on the bottom tub portion. What is the best way to deal with these? Does anyone have experience fixing the cracks. We discovered a fiberglass tub repair kit online but am wondering if that's the best route to follow. I don't want to end up with a mismatched patch job or water leaks. Thank you!
10 answers
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Allyson, somebody else asked a similar question a while back. The consensus seemed to be "hire a pro." http://www.hometalk.com/activity/86234
3po3
on Jan 12, 2012
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Exactly correct on hiring a pro for this. The gel coating oftentimes forms tiny hairline size cracks as the unit ages. Quite often its form poor support of the tub/shower itself. This allows for continued movement. This flexing eventually causes the cracks that are now appearing. They can become quiet ugly as soap scum builds and begins to turn dark. Making cleaning a nightmare. In any case there are companies that provide re-coating systems that re-gel the surface with a new finish. Do not accept those who just paint the tub to hide the issue at hand. This painting process does not work and quite often makes it even harder to properly fix if it can be later on.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Jan 12, 2012
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Thank you! I had missed the previous conversation but will now look into hiring a pro. I appreciate the feedback!
Allyson H
on Jan 13, 2012
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Also, can anyone point me in the right direction as far as hiring a pro? Recommendations? Company names/types? My google search isn't coming up with much.
Allyson H
on Jan 13, 2012
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Hire a pro and make sure you have adequate support underneath before you even fix it. If your support is not good enough then you'll get those cracks right back after your repair. If it was a typical install then you probably don't have enough support underneath and the tub flexes every time someone steps in it, thus the cracks. You need to keep it from moving first then you'll be good to go.
Paul M
on Jan 13, 2012
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Check local pool and spa places. They do gel coating a lot on older spas and hot tubs. I am sure they can assist you in finding someone who will be willing to do work inside a warm home this time of year.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Jan 13, 2012
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Thank you so much!
Allyson H
on Jan 13, 2012
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it's not fitted right. sounds like wrong shape for old tub.
Brenda D
on Jan 15, 2012
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I had this problem and the tub was actually leaking through the cracks--not good for the walls . There was only one person in the state (VT) that repaired fiberglass tubs! If the DIY kit fails you'll have a mess on your hands. I'd say replace the tub...cheaper in the long run, compared to water damage.
Linda K
on Jan 15, 2012
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After moving into our new home, we noticed the new fiberglass shell in the master had cracks and a chip close to the drain. We thought it would require replacement of the whole thing. Well, long story short... An aftermarket tub-repair guy came out and mixed some kind of resin. Here it is five years later and the "patch" has not failed. It does have a now-noticeable off-color but that's NOT a real issue for us.
Ricardo B
on Jan 15, 2012
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