Common Causes Of a Cracked Fiberglass Tub & How To Avoid Them
Prevent Fiberglass Tub Cracks With Help From a Fiberglass Tub Professional
Your bathroom should be a place to unwind, especially when bathing. The last thing you want is to stress over cracks forming in your fiberglass tub. But if you’ve ever spotted a crack in your bathtub, you know how frustrating it can be.
While a small crack might not seem alarming, it can lead to bigger problems over time if left unaddressed. So, what causes a fiberglass tub to crack, and more importantly, how can you prevent it? Let’s find out!
Excess Weight & Pressure
Fiberglass tubs aren’t as sturdy as cast iron or acrylic tubs. Excess weight can cause fiberglass tubs to flex and weaken over time, leading to cracks.
Standing on the edges, placing heavy objects inside the tub, or even an improper installation without proper support underneath can contribute to this problem.
How To Avoid It:
- Avoid standing or sitting on the edges of the tub.
- Don’t place heavy objects in the tub, like large potted plants or heavy storage containers.
- Ensure the tub is properly supported during installation with a reinforced base.
Improper Installation
One of the biggest causes of cracks in fiberglass tubs is improper installation. If the tub lacks proper support during installation, it may flex under heavy weight. This repeated flexing weakens the material, leading to cracks.
How To Avoid It:
- Have a professional install your tub to ensure proper support.
- If you’re installing it yourself, use a mortar bed or foam insulation under the tub to provide stability and prevent movement.
Harsh Cleaning Products
Many people overlook the fact that strong chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools can weaken the fiberglass surface. These harsh products can easily break down the protective gel coat, making the bathtub more susceptible to damage, including cracks.
How to Avoid It:
- Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners designed for fiberglass tubs.
- Avoid using steel wool, stiff brushes, or harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia.
- Regularly clean your tub to prevent the buildup of grime and stains that may require more aggressive scrubbing.
Thermal Expansion & Contraction
Fiberglass expands and contracts with temperature changes. If you frequently expose your tub to extreme temperature shifts—like filling it with scalding hot water right after it’s been exposed to cold air—it can cause stress fractures in the material.
How To Avoid It:
- Avoid drastic temperature changes when using your tub.
- Gradually increase the temperature of the water rather than pouring in extremely hot water all at once.
Aging & Normal Wear & Tear
Like anything else, fiberglass tubs naturally wear down over time. The gel coat that protects the tub can erode, leaving it vulnerable to cracks. Plus, if your tub is over 10 years old (or older), small stress cracks may appear due to years of use.
How To Avoid It:
- Regular maintenance can extend the life of your tub. Apply a fiberglass polish or wax to maintain the gel coat’s integrity.
- If your tub is getting old and showing multiple signs of wear, consider refinishing it before the cracks become severe.
Impact Damage
Dropping something heavy—like a shampoo bottle, a large soap dish, or even a shower head—can cause surface cracks or even deep structural damage in a fiberglass tub.
How To Avoid It:
- Be careful with what you place near or in the tub.
- Use suction-cup shower caddies instead of placing heavy items directly on the tub’s surface.
- If you drop something, inspect the area to catch minor damage before it worsens.
How to Fix a Cracked Fiberglass Tub
If you notice a small crack, don’t panic. Depending on the severity, you may be able to repair it yourself. Just remember that if the damage is too severe, it’s much better to contact professionals.
For Small Surface Cracks:
You can use a fiberglass repair kit, available at most hardware stores, to fix minor damage.
- Clean the area thoroughly and let it dry.
- Sand the crack lightly to roughen the surface.
- Apply the repair resin from the kit and let it cure.
- Sand the area and apply a finishing coat if needed.
For Larger Cracks Or Leaks:
- If the crack is deep or spreading, it may need professional tub repair or even a replacement.
- A plumber or contractor can assess whether a patch job will suffice or if replacing the tub is a better option.
- If water has already leaked underneath, you may also need to check for mold or structural damage beneath the tub.
Get Professional Help When Necessary
If you’re dealing with cracks now, don’t ignore them! The sooner you address minor damage, the less likely it is to turn into a major issue. And if your tub is showing signs of serious wear, it might be time to explore repair or replacement options.
Todd’s Fiberglass and Porcelain Repair offers expert bathtub refinishing services in Mesa and the surrounding area. Our experienced professionals can fix chips, cracks, and other damage to your fiberglass or porcelain tub, making it look like new again. You can save a lot of money by investing in bathtub repair rather than getting a new tub. We also offer shower chip repair and crack repair, and we can fix bathroom sinks and vanities with the same finish. Contact us today to talk with a bathtub repair specialist and to get a quote for your tub or shower.
TODD’S BATHTUBS
1829 S Horne #14,
Mesa, AZ 85204
Office: 480-835-7070
Email: info@toddsbathtubs.com
