If you’re like most homeowners, you probably love your Fiberglass tubs – but what about the hairline crack that appears on one side? Well, don’t worry – we’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll show you how to fix a hairline crack in a fiberglass tub in 9 simple steps. Plus, we’ll give you some tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the first place.
So read on and learn how to fix hairline crack in fiberglass tub easily and cheaply!
Do Fiberglass Tubs Crack?
Fiberglass tubs are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability and easy maintenance. However, even the most durable materials can develop cracks over time.
If you’ve noticed a crack in your fiberglass tub, you may be wondering if it can be repaired or if you need to replace the entire tub.
If you have a small crack in your fiberglass tub, there are several ways you can repair it yourself using materials that can be purchased at any hardware store. For bigger cracks or more serious damage, it’s best to call a professional for help.
Causes of Cracked Fiberglass Tub
Over time, your fiberglass tub may develop cracks. These cracks can be caused by a number of factors, including:
1. Age
As your fiberglass tub ages, it may become more prone to cracking. This is due to the fact that the material may start to break down and become less flexible over time.
2. Usage
If you use your fiberglass tub on a regular basis, it may also be more likely to develop cracks. This is because the constant use can put stress on the material and cause it to break down faster.
3. Temperature Changes
Sudden or extreme temperature changes can also cause your fiberglass tub to crack. This is because the material expands and contracts in response to these temperature changes, which can eventually lead to cracking.
4. Poor Installation
If your fiberglass tub was not installed properly, it may also be more likely to develop cracks. This is because poor installation can leave gaps or weak spots in the material that are more susceptible to cracking under stress.
Here is the complete guide on installing a freestanding tub properly.
How to Fix Hairline Crack in Fiberglass Tub?
If you have a hairline crack in your fiberglass tub, don’t despair! These cracks are usually caused by minor impacts and can be easily repaired with fiberglass tub repair kits.
The most important thing to remember is to take your time and work carefully so you don’t end up making the problem worse.
Things Required for Fixing Crack in a Fiberglass Tub
- Fiberglass Tub Repair Kit
- Epoxy Resin
- Putty Knife
- Household Cleaner
- Sponge
- Rag
- Fiberglass Cloth
- Sandpaper
- Brush
- Paint
- Safety Gloves
How to Fix a Hairline Crack in a Fiberglass Tub in 9 Simple Steps
If you’ve ever wondered can you fix a crack in a fiberglass tub, wonder no more! In just 9 simple steps, you can have your tub looking as good as new.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
If you have a small hairline crack, then you may be able to repair it yourself. However, if the crack is large or if there are multiple cracks, then you will likely need to replace the entire tub.
Step 2: Clean & Dry
Clean the area around the crack with soap and water. This will help ensure that the repair adhesive will stick to the surface. Once complete, dry the area with a rag or clean cloth.
Step 3: Sand the Area
Sand the area around the crack with medium-grit sandpaper until it is a bit rough. Remove the dirt with a cloth or brush after sanding before you move on to the next step.
Step 4: Use Adhesive
Apply a generous amount of epoxy resin adhesive to both sides of the crack. You can also use a fiberglass repair kit for this step, which will include an epoxy resin adhesive and fiberglass cloth patches.
Let the adhesive dry before you move on to the next step.
Step 5: Apply Fiberglass Filler
Using a putty knife fill the hairline crack with fiberglass filler which comes with the fiberglass repair kit. Remove the excess filler if any around the crack and let it dry completely as per the package instructions.
Step 6: Sand Again
Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly sand away any rough edges around the crack until smooth.
Wipe away any dust with a clean rag.
Step 7: Apply Epoxy on Hairline Crack
Create an Epoxy mixture and apply it to the hairline crack and surrounding areas of the bathtub using a paintbrush. For best results, make sure that the mixture covers at least 2 inches of the surrounding area.
Step 8: Use Fiberglass Cloth
Place a piece of fiberglass cloth over the top of the adhesive and smooth it down so that it lies flat against the tub surface. Make sure you do this before the epoxy mixture dries. Allow the adhesive to dry according to package instructions (typically 24 hours).
Once dry, apply another layer of epoxy resin adhesive over top of the fiberglass cloth patch. Again, smooth down any wrinkles or bubbles with a putty knife in order to create a flat surface. Allow this second layer of adhesive to dry completely.
Step 9: Apply Sealer
The last step is to apply the sealer to the damaged area of the tub and let it dry. You have now successfully fixed hairline crack on your fiberglass tub, and it’s ready to use.
Here is a video explaining the entire process in detail:
Cracked fiberglass shower pans can also be repaired with the same procedure as explained above in this section.
How Much Do Fiberglass Tub Repairs Cost?
If you’re like most people, your bathtub is one of the places where you relax and unwind at the end of a long day. But what do you do when your tub starts to show signs of wear and tear?
You may be tempted to ignore the problem or try to patch it up yourself, but that’s not always the best solution. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to call in a professional for fiberglass hairline crack repairs.
So how much does this type of repair cost? Cost can be as low as $50 if you can do it yourself using a fiberglass tub crack repair kit. If professional plumbers are required for the job, they can charge anything from $100 to $150 per hour depending on the expertise of the plumber and the type of repairs required.
If the damage is more extensive, such as large cracks or holes, prices will start at $300 and could go up from there depending on the severity. And if you need to replace any fixtures or hardware as part of the repair process, that will add even more to the final bill.
So if your bathtub is starting to show its age, don’t wait too long to get it fixed up. The sooner you take care of repairs, the less expensive they’ll be.
Tips to Prevent Cracks in Fiberglass Tubs
If you have a fiberglass tub, you know that they are susceptible to developing hairline cracks. While these cracks may not seem like a big deal, they can actually lead to bigger problems down the road if they are not taken care of.
Here are some tips on how to prevent hairline cracks from developing in your fiberglass tub:
1. Using a Liner
One way to prevent hairline cracks from developing in your fiberglass tub is to use a liner. A liner is a thin sheet of material that covers the inside of the tub and helps protect it from damage. You can find liners made of different materials, but vinyl is a good option because it’s durable and easy to clean.
Another benefit of using a liner is that it can help extend the life of your tub by preventing scratches and other types of damage.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals on your tub. Over time, these chemicals can break down the surface of the tub and cause it to become brittle and more prone to cracking. Instead, use mild soap and water or a natural cleaner like vinegar to clean your tub.
3. Avoid Rough Scrubber
Don’t use abrasive scrubbers or brushes when cleaning your tub. This can also damage the surface of the tub and make it more likely to crack.
4. Immediate Action
If you notice any small cracks starting to form, address them immediately by sealing them with a clear silicone caulk designed for bathrooms. This will help to prevent water from getting into the cracks and causing them to expand.
5. Don’t Overload
Finally, make sure you’re not overloading your fiberglass tub with too much weight. This can cause the structure of the tub to weaken over time and increase the risk of cracking. If you have a particularly large or heavy bathtub, consider reinforcing it with supports before filling it up completely.
Final Thoughts
That’s everything you should know about fixing a hairline crack in a fiberglass tub. You can either use a fiberglass repair kit or use epoxy glue to repair fiberglass hairline crack.
However, it should be noted that neither of these methods is guaranteed to work, and in fact, they may only temporarily fix the problem. If the cracks in your fiberglass tub are severe, then it may be best to simply replace the tub altogether.
People Also Search For
Q1: How to Fix Hairline Crack in Plastic Tub?
The process of fixing a hairline crack in a plastic tub is similar to a fiberglass tub. Use epoxy or polyester resin for fixing the crack in a plastic tub.
Q2: Will Flex Seal Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
No, a flex seal cannot fix a cracked bathtub permanently. It is just a temporary solution for preventing leakage in the bathtub.
Q3: Can I Fix a Crack in an Acrylic Tub with a Fiberglass Repair Kit?
Yes, you can use a fiberglass repair kit for fixing acrylic tub cracks.
Q4: Which is the Best Fiberglass Tub Repair Kit?
Gelcoat Products Tub and Shower Repair Kit is the best repair kit for fiberglass tubs. You can purchase this from Amazon and other online stores like Lowes, Home Depot, etc.
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