You may find a fiberglass bathtub very affordable and simple to install, however, there’s a catch to it; unlike other bathtubs made up of ceramic, porcelain, or steel, fiberglass tubs can crack very easily, especially when too much stress is put in one area. Although they’re designed similar to other bathtubs, accidents, faulty workmanship or installation could create a problem. Fortunately, it can be repaired preventing replacement.
Total Koatings can resurface your fiberglass bathtub or shower with a hard porcelain finish repairing any peeling, flaking or cracks. This durable finish comes in multiple colors and a 5-year warranty. We can be in and out of your home in no time leaving no mess or toxic fumes. You can even resume normal use of the bathtub and shower within 24 hours.
Now if you prefer the DIY yourself method of home repair here are some steps to get you started. Here are a few things you will need before you begin: (i) putty knife, (ii) patch filler, (iii) sandpaper, (iv) fiberglass mesh, (v) utility knife, (vi) paint, and (vii) paintbrush.
#1 Clean your tub thoroughly and make sure no debris remains on top of and around the cracked area. Once you applied the patch material, leave it dry for the next 24 hours. (If you called us you could be using that shower in 24 hours.)
#2 For every crack wider than ¼ inch, cut a piece of fiberglass mesh and place it over the crack, spanning each side by at least ½ inch. Remember to wear gloves – fiberglass splinters hurt!)
#3 Mix up your filler material as per the manufacturer’s instructions. While some fillers come in squeeze tubs and buckets, others come in caulking tubes. (Don’t forget to use a lot of ventilation and possibly a respirator. The resin gives off strong toxic fumes.)
#4 Gently apply the filler material on the crack and then place the mesh on the top of it. You can also apply another layer to cover the mesh completely. (Sounds easy but it takes experience to get it to cover smoothly.)
#5 Cracks should be completely covered and make sure no excess is oozing up out of the joints. Now, take a putty knife and scrape the cracks flush with rest of your bathtub. Leave the mixture as it is for a few hours, so it can harden perfectly. (Did it go down nice and smooth? Bet you could use a shower.)
#6 Sand the area, where you applied the mixture. Use a fine-grit sandpaper for this job. Now, clean the dust and apply a color of your own choice after it has dried. (Sand it smooth but if you over sand it you could do more damage to the surrounding area. Oh, and did we mention brush marks in the paint? How many days does this make for you without a shower?)
Ok, so how does it look? Smooth and flawless like new? Chances are it does not.
You would now have several days into a repair that may or may not even hold let alone look good. Please, save yourself the hassle, expense and possible risks associated with a DIY fiberglass tub/shower repair. Give Total Koatings a call. We will get the job done correctly, beautifully and quickly.