While getting ready for a nice, quiet bath one day, you discover a little crack in the middle of your bathtub and now you are wondering how to fix a cracked bathtub. Minor damage may not seem like a big deal, but it can escalate to worse issues if left unattended.
Crack Types in a Bathtub
1. Stress Crack
Accidentally dropping a large item into your bathtub might cause stress fractures. However, if the break is on the surface, you can fix it using a cheap repair kit from your local hardware shop.
2. Hairline Crack
Hairline crack in bathtub appear when the material is repeatedly stressed, such as in the case of a bathtub. However, similar to stress fractures, you can fix your bathtub with a simple repair kit before the damage worsens. Eventually, the unsupported material will buckle under the weight of the load.
Crack Fixing Kits for the Bathtub
If you are wondering how to fix a cracked bathtub there are typically two types of repair kits available: external and internal. Most surface repair kits consist of polymer-based tape or paint that you apply to the outside of your bath tub crack to fill in the crack.
Cracks may be sealed from the inside with an internal repair kit, which typically consists of glue or paste. Each of these may be purchased for about $50–$600 and is a simple and affordable alternative to hiring an expert.
How to Fix a Crack in Bathtub?
1. Stop the Frown Line
Every fracture needs a 1/4 inches top drill hole drilled at its end.
2. Seal the Gap
Blend the two components of the polyester filler as directed, then spread it into the crack using a clean elastic spreader until the stop-drill bits and the gaps are filled.
3. Filling in with Sand
After the filler dries, smooth it out using fine-grit sandpaper. Then, gently scrub until it reaches the same level of shine as the rest of your tub. When you’re done, clean the area with denatured alcohol, so it’s ready to be sprayed.
4. Finishing Spray
Spray a thin layer of bathtub repair paint and let it dry completely before applying additional coats.
5. Refine the Bathtub
A car polish urethane compound is what you need to put the final touches on your tub. Apply to make the paint more durable and to blend the edges.
What is the Going Rate for Bathtub Repair?
On average, the hourly rate for a plumber or contractor is from $80 to $150. However, this may vary significantly by location and specialty. For example, this is a significant investment for your bathroom’s bathtub.
Many of these crack in bath tub, however, can be done by the owner for less than $50 with a little bit of online study and some reasonably affordable repair supplies.
Price of Professional Maintenance
The usual rate for experts is between $100 and $150 per hour. In addition to solving your immediate issue if you are thinking how to fix a cracked bathtub, a professional may serve as a valuable resource for advice and guidance on future projects and general maintenance.
In addition, they come with a bonus of extra expertise that may assist you in setting up things that are too hard for you to handle.
Here’s where things get complicated: finding a reliable expert takes more than a quick look through the phone book. There may be a lot of plumbers advertised online, but before hiring one, ensure they have set rates, positive customer feedback, and appropriate licensing.
Common Reasons for Bathtub Damage
Cracks in bathtubs may be caused by several factors, including insufficient support for the material, dropping essential things on it, or using harsh chemicals.
Fiberglass and other flexible materials may be easily deformed under pressure. Over time, fractures will emerge under the weight strain if this material is put incorrectly or without strengthening.
Anything heavy thrown on the tub might leave a depression or divot that, over time, can grow into a full-fledged fracture.
Finally, the sheen and shine of the bathtub may quickly be eaten away with highly abrasive cleansers like bleach, letting more moisture into the material and producing fractures. To what extent, then, do cracks pose a threat? Little flaws in your bathtub’s enamel might spread and widen if you do nothing about them.
Once a bathtub has a fracture, water and moisture may easily penetrate it, weakening the structure until it splits entirely. Fractures in fiberglass tubs are typical.
Fiberglass meets all three conditions mentioned above for cracking to occur since it is both cheap and very porous, meaning it will absorb water and cannot endure considerable stress.
How do we go to solve this issue? Investing in better quality materials now may be pricey, but it will save you time and energy afterward. For example, stone resin is incredibly sturdy and won’t give under pressure.
Stone resin is resistant to chipping and cracking even when subjected to substantial impacts. In addition, stone resin bathtubs are completely non-porous, so they do not absorb water and do not need abrasive cleansers for upkeep.
Maintaining a Bathtub
How to keep your tub from breaking and using it for as long as possible:
- Ensure the bathtub has enough support when installing it to prevent the material from giving way under your weight.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia to clean.
- Don’t just toss anything heavy into the tub.
FAQs on How to Fix a Cracked Bathtub
How to Fix a Cracked Fiberglass Tub?
A fiberglass tub may be repaired in as little as a day using a simple epoxy kit and a few key components; most of that time is spent waiting for the compound to dry. If you are wondering how to fix a cracked tub floor, you can do it similarly.
How to Fix a Crack in a Plastic Bathtub?
If the crack is more than 1/4 inch wide, you should use fiberglass mesh to cover it, making sure to overlap the mesh on both sides by at least 1/2 inch. Use a utility knife to trim the mesh to size, then press it over the hole.
How to Fix a Cracked Bathroom Sink?
Epoxy putty’s gap-filling qualities, lasting seal, and ability to be sanded and painted make it the ideal alternative for repairing chips in porcelain sinks.
How to Fix a Broken Bathtub Faucet Handle?
Take the old Handle out from Faucet Stem. Replace the Stem Handle. Tighten the replacement Handle Set Screw using a Phillips screwdriver. Insert the new Handle Button until it clicks.
Can a Cracked Bathtub be Repaired?
It is possible to fix a damaged bathtub. However, a crack or chip should be repaired immediately since it will worsen if left unattended. Find out the problem and how to fix it, whether you want to do it on your own or hire someone to do it for you.
Is it common for a Bathtub to Crack?
It is common for a bathtub to crack if you place a heavy burden on a bathtub.
Will Flex Seal Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
If your bathtub has been damaged, you may use Flex Seal Liquid to make repairs. To use, pour the product into the damaged area and smooth up the surface.
Is Flex Seal 100% Waterproof?
Certainly, Flex Glue is entirely waterproof, and the quick grab-and-hold adhesive may be used for various purposes.
Is Flex Seal a Permanent Fix?
Flex Tape is designed for quick fixes in emergencies and should not be used for long-term maintenance.
How much does it Cost to Epoxy a Bathtub?
Epoxy bathtub restoration may cost anywhere from $300 to $700, with the typical homeowner paying closer to $500.
What’s Better Flex Seal or Flex Tape?
It depends on the specific situation you are using either product for. For example, flex Seal is best suited for larger projects and repairs that require a waterproof seal, such as sealing gutters or flashings. On the other hand, Flex Tape is better suited for smaller tasks like patching up holes, repairing tears in fabrics, etc.
Bath Tub Crack: Conclusion
Your bathtub is a crucial component of your bathroom, so keep it in good condition and repair any cracks or other damage as soon as you see them to avoid a more serious issue down the line and if you are thinking about how to fix a cracked bathtub then the above mentioned information can help you out.
Read Also:
How Much Does It Cost To Resurface A Bathtub?
How Much Does Bath Fitter Costs?
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel Cost In 2023