Can a Leaking Fiberglass or Acrylic Tub be Repaired?

If you’re dealing with a leaking fiberglass or acrylic tub, the good news is that it’s usually possible to repair it. With the right materials and some patience, you can often fix your tub and restore it to its original condition. Here are some tips on how to go about it:

In what areas of the plastic (acrylic or fiberglass) tubs or showers, cracks/holes could happen, and what are the causes?

Cracks and holes can manifest in various areas of plastic (acrylic or fiberglass) tubs and showers, including the bottom (floor), sidewalls, or inner walls.

When it comes to cracks or holes at the bottom of these fixtures, the main culprits are typically hits, lack of support, insufficient support, or poor workmanship. Improper installation often leads to inadequate support, causing the bottom of the tub or shower to remain unstable. As a result, the material is more prone to failure over time, especially with regular use and if utilized by heavier individuals.

Conversely, cracks or holes on the sidewall or inner walls may arise from three primary causes. One possibility is that the plastic (acrylic or fiberglass) tub or shower has sustained impact from heavy or pointed objects. The other potential reason is the use of substandard materials during the manufacturing process. And the last may be because of improper support under the unit during install. In such cases, the materials used for the tub surround are often cheap and fragile, leading to cracks even with regular usage, without any external force applied.

Additionally, incidents occur where contractors, handymen, or plumbers inadvertently contribute to cracks or holes during bathroom renovations, repairs, or tub unclogging procedures. Accidentally dropping tiles or tools onto the tub or shower may result in damage occurring anywhere on the plastic, acrylic, or fiberglass surface, be it the bottom, sidewalls, or inner walls.

Repairing Your Acrylic Tub

If you own an acrylic tub, you know it’s important to take steps to ensure that it remains structurally sound. With the proper care and maintenance, your tub won’t suffer damage or start leaking. But sometimes despite all of our efforts, a leak may occur anyway. So what can you do if you find yourself in this situation? Can a leaking acrylic tub be repaired?

The good news is that, yes, it is possible to repair a leaking acrylic tub. However, the steps to take depend on the source and cause of the leak. In many cases, handymen, or homeowners often try to fix the problem with supplies from your local hardware store. But in almost all cases, they end up calling a professional to get the job done correctly.

Before attempting any repairs yourself, it is recommended that you take a few minutes to inspect the area for potential causes of the leak. Check for signs of loose fixtures or cracks in the tub’s surface. If either one is present, it may be best to call a professional plumber for help. Also, sometimes there is a plumbing leak present that has nothing to do with the plastic tub or surround.

If you don’t see any obvious signs of damage, then it may be possible to repair the leak by sealing the area with caulking or a sealant product. Before applying either one, make sure that the surface is clean and dry. Then apply the sealant in long strips around the edges of your tub to create a watertight seal.

Tub Coaters operates as a leading bathtub refinishing company, skillfully restoring numerous bathtubs across Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington, DC annually. Among these refurbishments, an impressive 45% are acrylic or fiberglass tubs and/or showers. Not only does Tub Coaters have an expertise in refinishing, but also in doing a proper fiberglass or acrylic repair and not just a repair kit that you can find in the stores that isn’t very effective.

How To Take Care Of Your Acrylic Tub

When it comes to taking care of your acrylic tub, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your tub remains leak-proof. The following tips will help you keep your tub in top condition and prevent any potential issues related to leaking or damage.

Prevention

The best way to prevent any leaks or damage from occurring in your acrylic tub is by ensuring that the installation was done the correct way at the beginning with proper support under the plastic surface. If the surface moves when you step into the tub or surround, there is a good chance that it will eventually crack. Also, you should make sure that you clean the surface regularly. Dirt and debris can quickly build up on an acrylic tub’s surface, and hard scrubs that come naturally when the surfaces are very dirty, will lead to cracks and other forms of damage over time. Make sure to use a mild cleaner or soap specifically designed for acrylic baths when cleaning, as harsh chemicals can also cause damage.

Another tip for preventing leaks and damage is to check the seals around the edges of your tub regularly. Worn-out or cracked seals allow moisture and water to enter, leading to potential leaking. If you find any signs of wear and tear, be sure to replace the seal promptly before it becomes a bigger problem.

Care

Caring for your acrylic tub requires that you use the proper materials on its surface. Avoid using any abrasive cleaning agents, scrubbing pads, and steel wool as these can cause scratches or damage the tub’s appearance. If necessary, a mild soap or cleaner specifically designed for acrylic baths is best.

When using a cleaner, make sure to rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. This will help remove all remaining residue and prevent any possible staining or damage from occurring.

Additionally, it’s important to keep your acrylic tub dry after every use. This is especially true if you live in an area where there is high humidity, as moisture can cause the tub’s surface to become discolored and brittle over time.

Conclusion

If you need any assistance with repairing your leaking fiberglass or acrylic bathtub, Tub Coaters is here to help. At Tub Coaters, we specialize in repairing leaking fiberglass and acrylic tubs. We are experienced with re-supporting these tubs and refinishing them to look like new again. Our team of professionals can help you with any bathtub issues that you may have, so don’t hesitate to contact us! With our expertise and quality workmanship, you can be sure that you’re getting the best service for your tub. Contact us today and find out how we can help you!