Fiberglass shower pan crack repair

While large cracks often indicate problems that patching may not correct, minor repairs are relatively easy for a do-it-yourselfer. Gelcoat repair kits for marine and other wet fiberglass repairs are available at many home centers and marine stores; many come in a variety of tones that closely match fiberglass shower pans.

Similar to most superficial repairs, preparation is the key to a uniform appearance. Clean the shower pan thoroughly with a liquid bathroom cleaner and a bristle brush. Turn on the water and rinse off the residue and cleaner. Dry the pan with fabric towels or rags. Use as many towels or rags as necessary to thoroughly dry the pan. Put on safety gloves and a dust mask. Sand the area at a crack, gouge or pit in the fiberglass with a fine-grit sanding block.

Use light pressure on the block to avoid sanding through the surface layer of the fiberglass. Apply a thin layer of gelcoat patch onto a crack from end to end with the provided applicator. Apply a modest amount of gelcoat at a pit or gouge. Smooth the gelcoat to a uniform finish with one or two strokes of the applicator.

Fiberglass or acrylic bathtubs and showers are easy to install and are often less expensive than other options, such as a cast-iron tub or ceramic tile shower stall, making them a favorite for budget-conscious homeowners. Over time, though, the acrylic or fiberglass surfaces can get dented or cracked, often because of flexing of the walls of the fixture over time.

Sharp blows can also dent, crack, or punch holes in fiberglass or acrylic. A variety of options are available at this point, including wholesale replacement of the bathtub or shower, or installing a new liner inside the old tub or shower. These materials include epoxy-like materials similar to the compounds used as filler in automobile body repairs. In fact, some people use these automotive body fillers to make repairs on tubs and showers, or even sinks and toilets.

Rather than using automotive body filler, though, a better choice is to buy a repair kit that is factory-matched to your tub or shower. These kits have filler paste already tinted to match the color of your fixture, and will include much of what you need to make the repairs—only a few extra tools and materials are required. A single kit may provide enough material to make several repairs. There are many repair and resurfacing products available, so make your choice carefully.

Paste kits may include:. Some types of products also include a clear top coat that is sprayed or brushed on. This repair uses an epoxy-type filler that has hazardous fumes. Always follow the kit manufacturer's recommendations for safety measures. Done patiently and according to instructions, the repair to your fiberglass or acrylic tub or shower should be nearly impossible to distinguish from the rest of the fixture.

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