How to Repair Chips and Cracks in Your Bathtub or Shower Pan

Fiberglass bathtubs and showers are affordable, durable and attractive, but they’re prone to cracks and pitting after years of regular use. Luckily, fiberglass repair can bring these features back to their original, beautiful condition. This project can be challenging for the average DIY-er, which is why hiring a fiberglass repair professional is your best bet for a quality fix.

Here’s a brief summary explaining how to get the job done the right way.

Repairing a fiberglass tub

From small pits to large cracks or indents, all it takes is a simple epoxy kit and a few tools to fix a tired-looking fiberglass bathtub. Your repair technician will wear protective gear, including goggles, a respirator and gloves, during the process. After assessing the type of damage to the tub, the technician will form a plan to tackle it.

Small chips and cracks only require a simple filling and refinishing, while larger holes or cracks require significant intervention. In these cases, the technician will typically add extra support to the tub structure before patching and refinishing the fiberglass.

Your technician will follow a similar process to the one listed below:

  • Preparing the area: The technician will use a cleaning solution and sponge to remove oil, soap scum and loose glass fibers.
  • Drilling: If any extra support is needed below the tub, the technician will drill a few small holes in the surface and inject a foam support below.
  • Patching: To repair large holes, the repair technician will lay fiberglass mesh as a patch and then seal it with resin putty and hardener. For smaller holes, all it takes is a small amount of the putty to fill them effectively.
  • Drying: The mixture will dry and set on the tub surface for about three hours or longer. After setting, the technician will sand the surface and then use finishing polish to help the repair blend in with the rest of the tub.

Repairing a fiberglass shower pan

Fixing cracks and holes in a shower pan follows a similar process to the one described above. The only real difference in the process is that the shower pan can be reinforced with plywood or any type of board instead of with foam. Your fiberglass technician will perform the following additional steps:

  • Sealing: The repair technician spreads epoxy on the plywood and presses it into the hole or crack from the unexposed side, sealing it effectively.
  • Applying the topcoat: To complete the repair, your technician adds a top layer of epoxy on the exposed surface of the shower pan. Finishing follows the same process as that for bathtubs, with the surface sanded and carefully polished to blend in with the surface.

Looking to bring back the original look and feel of your bathtub or shower with professional fiberglass repair? Reach out to the experts at A-1 Porcelain & Fiberglass Service Co., L.L.C. We’ll restore the appearance and function of a tired bathtub or shower in as little as a day.