Bathroom Tub Cracked – Ask A Local Plumber

Discovering a crack in your bathroom tub can feel like the beginning of a long and troublesome saga. Beyond being an eyesore, a cracked tub poses the risk of water damage and the dreaded mold invasion. However, there’s a silver lining before you dive into the depths of tub replacement costs. Repair options do exist, and they can be both effective and economical.

Well, we’ll be going over:

• What common factors lead to the cracking of bathroom tubs?
• What are the most effective methods for repairing a cracked bathroom tub?
• How can you prevent future cracks in your tub, ensuring a longer lifespan?

Let’s seal the deal on this issue and keep your bathroom sanctuary intact and leak-free!

What Causes Bathroom Tub Cracks?

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to understand what causes bathroom tub cracks in the first place. Here are some of the most common causes:

Age and Wear from Bathroom Tub

As with any household item, bathroom tubs can wear out over time. As they age, they become more susceptible to cracks and other damage. This is especially true for older tubs made of materials like cast iron or porcelain.

Heavy Impact on Bathroom Tubs

A heavy impact, such as dropping a heavy object or standing on the edge of the tub, can cause a crack in the tub. This is more common in tubs made of acrylic or fiberglass, as they are not as durable as other materials.

Poor Installation from Beginning

If a bathroom tub is not installed properly, it can lead to stress points that can eventually cause cracks. This is why it’s important to hire a professional for tub installation rather than attempting to do it yourself.

Structural Issues for Near Bathroom Tubs

In some cases, a cracked bathroom tub may be a symptom of a larger structural issue in the home. If the tub is not properly supported or if there is a foundation issue, it can cause stress on the tub and lead to cracks.

How to Fix a Cracked Bathroom Tub

Now that you know what can cause a bathroom tub to crack, let’s discuss the best methods for fixing it. Keep in mind that the best solution will depend on the severity and location of the crack.

DIY Solutions

If the crack in your bathroom tub is small and not in a high-traffic area, you may be able to fix it yourself. Here are a few DIY solutions to try:

• Epoxy Putty: Epoxy putty is a quick and easy solution for small cracks. Simply mix the putty according to the instructions and apply it to the crack. Once it dries, sand it down for a smooth finish.
• Fiberglass Repair Kit: For larger cracks, a fiberglass repair kit may be a better option. These kits come with everything you need to patch up the crack, including fiberglass cloth, resin, and hardener.
• Acrylic Repair Kit: If your tub is made of acrylic, an acrylic repair kit may be the best solution. These kits come with a special acrylic filler that can be used to fill in cracks and chips.

Professional Repair – Bathroom Cracks Tub

For larger or more severe cracks, it’s best to leave the repair to the professionals. Here are some of the methods they may use:

• Crack Injection: This method involves injecting a special epoxy or polyurethane resin into the crack to seal it. It’s a quick and effective solution for larger cracks.
• Fiberglass Patching: For cracks that are too large for epoxy or polyurethane injection, a fiberglass patch may be used. This involves applying a layer of fiberglass cloth and resin over the crack to reinforce it.
• Tub Liner: In some cases, a tub liner may be the best solution. This involves installing a new tub liner over the existing tub, covering up any cracks or damage.

Preventing Bathroom Tub Cracks

Of course, the best way to deal with a cracked bathroom tub is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing bathroom tub cracks:

• Use a Non-Slip Mat: A non-slip mat can help prevent slips and falls in the tub, which can lead to cracks.
• Avoid Heavy Impacts: Be careful when using heavy objects in the tub, and avoid standing on the edges.
• Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent buildup and damage to the tub.
• Address Structural Issues: If you suspect that your tub is cracking due to a larger structural issue, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

When to Replace a Cracked Bathroom Tub

In some cases, a cracked bathroom tub may be beyond repair and will need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it’s time for a replacement:

• Multiple Cracks: If your tub has multiple cracks, it may be a sign that it’s time for a replacement.
• Extensive Damage: If the crack is large or extends to the bottom of the tub, it may be too difficult to repair.
• Mold Growth: If the crack has caused water damage and mold growth, it’s best to replace the tub to prevent further issues.

Bathroom Tub Cracks – Final Repairs & Fixes