How to Easily Repair Shower Stalls and Bathtubs

Fixing Minor Damage on Fiberglass and Acrylic

Holes and cracks in fiberglass or acrylic tubs go beyond unsightly. When water infiltrates these openings, it can leak behind the unit and create pools of water, soak the insulation, weaken studs, and even result in mold within the wall and floor cavities.

Whether it is a bathtub, shower stall, or combination bathtub/shower surround, the process for minor repairs is the same for both fiberglass and acrylic materials. The rule of thumb is that if the hole is smaller than 1/2 inch, you should be able to make the repairs yourself. If you are dealing with a larger hole, then the replacement of the surround or unit might be in your immediate future.

Fixing the problem area involves applying a two-part epoxy compound that hardens to the strength of the surrounding material. With general-purpose kits, basic colorants can help bring the color of the patch closer to the color of the shower or tub, but the color match is rarely perfect. Some manufacturers offer epoxy kits formulated to exactly match the most popular colors of showers and tubs from major fixture manufacturers. Knowing the exact manufacturer and model number of your shower or tub may allow you to buy an epoxy kit that is a very good match for your fixture.

1. Clean the Area

   Clean the damaged area completely with the nonabrasive powdered cleanser.

2. Rinse the Cleaner Residue

   Rinse thoroughly, ensuring that no residue from the cleaner remains on the surface. Any residue that remains will compromise your fix, weakening it and shortening its life span.

3. Apply the Tape

   If directed by the kit, apply the reinforcement tape to the crack or small hole.

4. Mix the Resin and Hardener

   In a disposable container, combine the resin with the hardener and coloring agent, following package directions.

5. Spread the Mixture on Spot

   With a putty knife, spread the mixture over the tape or the damaged spot, feathering out the edges and creating the smoothest surface possible.

6. Let the Mixture Harden

   Let the repair harden and cure completely, according to package directions.

7. Sand Until Smooth

   Sand wet with the wet-dry sandpaper. The paper should be no coarser than 600-grit. Sand lightly until the repair area feels smooth with the surrounding area.

Repairing a Cast-Iron Bathtub

Although most bathtubs today are made of fiberglass or acrylic, older homes may still have enameled cast iron or steel tubs. When the protective coating on cast-iron or steel bathtubs flakes or chips away, you run the risk of the base material rusting beyond repair and developing leaks. Fixing these areas with porcelain paint nominally improves the look of the tub and usually prevents further rusting.

1. Remove Loose Chips from the Area

   Remove any flaking or damaged paint from the chipped area. If a great deal of paint needs to be removed, use a new straight razor blade to scrape the paint chips away with the blade held nearly flat against the surface.

2. Clean the Area Thoroughly

   Clean the chipped area with the rag and cleanser, then rinse thoroughly.

3. Wet-Sand Until Smooth

   Using at least 600-grit wet-dry sandpaper, wet the sandpaper and gently buff the surface to smooth out any imperfections.

4. Apply Touch-Up Paint

   Apply a small amount of touch-up paint and allow it to dry and cure completely, per the package directions.

5. Sand Again, If Needed

   If the painted area is not completely smooth, a second light sanding with wet-dry sandpaper will smooth out the repair area.

Removing Stains From a Shower Stall or Tub

Stubborn stains on showers or tubs can ruin their appearance. Cleaning stubborn stains from shower stalls or bathtubs involves starting with simple methods such as lemon juice and progressing to stronger, more caustic methods such as using mild acids. In most cases, the simple, organic, and less hazardous methods will be sufficient to eliminate the stain.

1. Scrub With Lemon

   Cut a lemon in quarters and rub the surface with the fruit. If you only have bottled lemon juice on hand, that will work. Rinse with water.

2. Scrub With Baking Soda

   Scrub the area with baking soda and a sponge, then rinse with water.

3. Apply Bleach Solution

   If the stain still remains, try a solution of one part bleach to one part water.

   Tip

   Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands when working with bleach.

4. Try an Acid Solution

   As a last resort, try a 5 percent solution of oxalic acid or a 10 percent solution of hydrochloric acid. Either acid can be purchased at a hardware store or home center. Dab the solution on with a rag for just a couple of seconds, then rinse thoroughly.

   Tip

   Wear rubber gloves, a mask, and safety glasses when working with acidic solutions.