If you’ve ever stepped into your shower or bath only to notice that a crack is developing along the floor, you might be tempted to ignore it. However, overlooking this problem could lead to much worse damage down the line. Whether you’re noticing fiberglass cracks or another type of shower base is cracking in Phoenix, AZ, you should consider calling for professional repair as soon as possible.

Why your shower or bathtub is cracking

Showers and baths are commonly made of either porcelain or fiberglass. Fiberglass is a highly porous and flexible material that can bend over time, especially if you stand in the same place to shower each day. Porcelain is more prone to cracking from heavy objects being dropped on its surface, or the use of heavy-duty abrasive cleaners. You should pay careful attention to any dings or divots in your porcelain tub, as they can degrade over time into full-on cracks.

There are two types of cracks: stress fractures and hairline cracks. Stress fractures develop when you drop a heavy object on your bathtub or shower floor, whereas hairline cracks are from repeated abuse over time. Both are simple enough to patch if you catch them in time, typically with premade kits from your local hardware store.

Professional repair or DIY?

When should you turn to the pros for your shower and bathtub repair? When your shower or bathtub is showing signs of heavy wear, including multiple cracks, it’s smart to either replace your tub or call in a professional shower and tub refinisher, like A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. The service will cost more than a simple DIY job, but it comes with the added benefits of professional expertise as well as advice on how to properly maintain your bathtub and shower in the future.

Professional repair and refinishing should be able to return your tub to a “like-new” condition, depending on the extent of the damage. If your bathroom’s appearance is important to you or if you need to be absolutely sure your bathtub won’t further crack and leak, then you should opt for a professional repair.

DIY kits can get the job done, too. They come with an agent to seal and fill the crack, or repaint the surface. However, you do run the risk of a poor color match or mistakes in application, as with any DIY repair project. We recommend using DIY kits if you can catch small cracks fast, but anything bigger should be left to the pros.

Repair your fiberglass shower cracks in Phoenix, AZ

The team at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. can repair and refinish your bathtub, shower, sink, vanity and tiles so your bathroom looks brand-new—with no messy demolition and expensive replacement work required. For over 40 years, we have worked hard to restore our customers’ bathtubs and showers so they look like new. Call us today to discuss your refinishing needs and to get a quote. We look forward to assisting you soon.