Fixing a Cracked Bathtub
Maintaining your bathtub is but one small part of being a homeowner. While it may be easy enough to keep it clean, what do you do when you’re faced with a crack? Cracks undermine the structural integrity of the bathtub and can allow water to leak into hard-to-reach spaces and grow mold, so they must be addressed promptly. In this article, you’ll learn what causes cracks in a bathtub and some options for repairing them.
What Causes Cracks in a Bathtub?
Most modern bathtubs are made from acrylic or fiberglass. While these materials are sturdy and low maintenance, they can also become brittle and eventually develop hairline cracks or stress fractures. The main causes of cracks in a bathtub are improper installation and lack of adequate support, overly abrasive cleaning chemicals, and impacts from falling objects.
How to Fix a Crack in Your Bathtub
The best course of action to fix a crack will depend on the type and extent of the damage. Generally, you have a few options to repair cracks in the acrylic or fiberglass surface of a bathtub, and these include:
- Crack repair kits – These can be utilized by a professional or by a handy homeowner. A crack repair kit usually involves a number of tools as well as waterproof tape, paint, or epoxy resin that can effectively fill in and seal a small gap.
- Refinishing the tub – Refinishing is one of the cheapest and easiest solutions to address minor imperfections in a bathtub’s surface. This involves removing the old finish, sanding, and applying a new coating. Refinishing can cover unsightly stains and minor damage, refreshing the surface and extending the life of the fixture.
- Installing a bathtub liner – A bathtub liner, also called a tub liner or bathtub insert, is like a second skin installed on top of the existing tub. Liners are usually made of acrylic or PVC plastic and are heated and vacuum-formed to match every curve of the tub’s shape before being glued down. This is a long-lasting solution that is less expensive than a replacement tub but more expensive than simply refinishing.
- Replacing the tub – When all else fails, replacing the bathtub is the surest way to be confident that your tub is safe to use. While it is more costly than repair options, it is a chance to upgrade to a more modern fixture that better suits your needs and wants, which is an attractive perk.
Need a Bathtub Replacement?
You can cover up or fill in a crack or chip, but it will always be a weak point. In the end, a bathtub replacement is always going to be your best bet. That way, you can be confident it’s sound and you won’t have to worry about leaks every time you use it. If you’re wondering where to get your new tub, the answer is simple: BathWraps. We’re the leading supplier of bath products in the nation, and we would love to outfit your home with a luxurious new bathtub that you can rely on for years to come. Contact us today to be put in touch with an authorized bathtub installer near you.
