How to Spot Damage to Your Bathtub

Older woman seated on the edge of her tub examining the inside for damageIt’s always a good idea to examine areas of your home every so often to ensure everything is still in working order. The wet areas especially, such as those in your bathroom, see a lot of use and need to be kept in tip-top shape. Worried about the condition of your bathtub? From cracks to mold growth, there are many issues that can arise, and most of them are things you’ll want to address right away. But in order to spot damage to your bathtub, you first have to know what to look for.

Common Kinds of Bathtub Damage

Perhaps your bathtub leaks, and you don’t know why. Maybe mold keeps coming back no matter how hard you scrub. It could be that your tub has been compromised in some way. Common kinds of bathtub damage include:

Stress Cracks

This type of crack is caused by an impact, such as a shampoo bottle that fell and struck the base of your tub. Usually, these kinds of cracks can be repaired. However, it can be a sign that your tub was not installed correctly and is not properly supported, in which case you may need a replacement bathtub.

Hairline Cracks

Stepping in and out of your tub, dropping things repeatedly, using highly abrasive cleaning chemicals, temperature changes, and consistent humidity can all cause wear and tear to your tub, eventually leading to hairline cracks. These can often be repaired.

Scuffs, Scratches, or Chips in the Surface

These are other types of damage that occur with natural use over time. It can be caused by cleaning products, damaging tools, and impacts. Refinishing a tub will take care of these surface-level imperfections.

Stains

Have green, black, or yellow discoloration that just won’t come off, no matter how hard you scrub? It could be that some areas of your tub have been permanently stained. Refinishing your tub or installing a bathtub liner will cover up any unsightly stains.

Tips to Prevent Damage to Your Tub

Once you’ve refreshed the appearance of your tub, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent any further damage. There are a few things you should get into the habit of doing for the overall health of your tub:

  • Rinse your tub thoroughly after every use
  • Regularly clean your tub to prevent build-up
  • Don’t use highly abrasive cleaning chemicals that can damage the surface
  • Don’t use highly pigmented products that could stain the surface of your tub, like hair dye or certain bath bombs
  • Ensure there is adequate ventilation when there is a lot of steam, whether by turning on a fan or opening a window
  • Don’t leave bottles of shampoo and body wash perched precariously on a ledge

Time to Replace Your Bathtub?

If your problems can’t be easily fixed, or if you don’t care for the overall size and style of your tub to begin with, it may be time to invest in a replacement tub. BathWraps is the nation’s leading bathroom remodeler, and we’d love to help you upgrade your bathing space. Most of our renovations can be completed in just one day, so you’ll be enjoying your gorgeous new shower or bathtub in no time. Reach out today to be put in touch with your local BathWraps dealer and start exploring your options.