A cracked tub can be frustrating and is usually a sign of a more significant problem in your home. You will usually see cracks in the bathtub because of dropping of heavy objects, chemical buildup, or even wear and tear. Regardless, you must find out why your bathtub is cracked and take steps to prevent further damage.
However, that’s easier said and done seeing as you may need more time or money for a full-blown remodel.
Here are some quick and easy ideas that will help you get your bathtub looking like new again as you get ready to fix the problem permanently.
Cracked Bathtub Quick Fixes
If you have a cracked bathtub, you can fix it yourself, albeit temporarily. Here are some ways to do it.
Repair Kit
With a cracked bathtub, you need to get the right tools to fix the problem. A repair kit will help you avoid damaging your tub and give you the confidence to install your new shower system. The best kits will include all the necessary parts for the job and instructions that make it easy for you to complete the job.
You’ll also find that many kits come with an extra or two so that you can have replacements in case something goes wrong during the installation or if there is an issue with water damage caused by a malfunctioning product.
Epoxy Resin
You can also cover cracks in your bathtub with epoxy, which is similar to cement but thicker and more rigid than regular cement or mortar. Epoxy is usually clear or white, but you can also get colored epoxies that perfectly match your bathtub’s finish.
You’ll want to make sure that you use epoxy that corresponds precisely with your bathtub finish — if not, it may not look as good as you want it to be.
Wax and Sealant
If you don’t want to deal with epoxy, there are other ways to fix your cracked tub without replacing it entirely. You can apply wax and sealant to fill in cracks and chips, making them less noticeable but not completely concealed until the next time you wash your tub or shower.
This method won’t be as durable as epoxy, but it’s an easy way to fix small cracks in your tub at home without having to pay a professional.
Waterproof Sealing Tape
If you’ve tried to repair your cracked bathtub and failed, this may be the answer to your problem. Sealing tape is a self-adhesive liner used to seal around edges and holes in wood, vinyl, and other materials. It’s also used as a protective coating for construction projects such as floors and walls.
To use this product on your cracked tub, you’ll need to cut it down into strips no more than 1/4 inch wide. Then apply one strip at a time to the crack or hole in your bathtub until it covers the entirety of the crack or hole.
Be careful not to use too much pressure when applying this product because it can permanently damage your tub if misused.
Fiberglass Patch Repair Kits
The fiberglass patch repair kits are perhaps the easiest way to fix cracked and broken bathtubs. They are made of fiberglass resin and come in different sizes. The kit will have enough fiberglass for one repair, so if you have a small crack in your tub, you will need to buy another.
The kit has a special glue that you mix with water and apply to the crack after it is sanded smooth. The bond is strong enough to fill cracks up to 1/4 inch wide and 1/8 inch deep. It does not require any additional priming or painting, so there is no extra work involved when using this method.
This method can be applied almost anywhere on your bathtub because it is self-contained and requires no additional tools or materials. You place the glue on the crack using a brush or squeegee, let it dry overnight, and sand it smooth before applying more patches.
Glue
You can find this product in any hardware store, and it comes in many colors. Simply put a small amount of glue on one crack, wait for it to dry, then put another small amount on the crack just above where you first applied the glue. Then wait for that to dry before doing this again. Repeat until all of your cracks are joined up.
If you don’t want to use a liquid silicone glue, then you can use a hot-melt adhesive like Gorilla Glue which will work just as well but may leave behind some residue if not completely removed afterward.
Tips for Preventing Your Bathtub from Cracking
Cracked bathtubs are a common problem among homeowners. If you are not careful, cracks can spread, causing your bathtub to become unusable and costly for you to repair.
The good news is that there are several ways to prevent your cracked bathtub from occurring in the first place. Here are some of them.
Place on a Stable and Level Surface
Bathtubs are heavy, so they need to be placed on a stable and level surface. To prevent damage from occurring, set the tub on its back or side rather than its front. You should also ensure that the floor is at least 6 inches above any waterline in your tub and no more than 2 inches from any part of your bathtub’s wall.
Avoid Using Strong Cleaners
If you want to prevent your bathtub from cracking, avoid using strong cleaners containing abrasive particles. This could be the reason why your bathtub is cracking.
Besides, if there are cracks in your bathtub, harsh soaps and detergents can cause new cracks. The hardness of these products can result in the hardening of the pores and the enlargement of existing cracks. If this happens, it will make it even harder for water to evaporate from the tub.
Stay Away from Chemicals
You want to avoid using chemicals on your bathtub because they can build up and damage it. If you must use chemicals, ensure you rinse your bathtub thoroughly afterward to prevent accumulation.