how to repair fiberglass hot tub crack

by Jaunita Schumm Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

How to Fix a Crack in a Fiberglass Hot Tub

1.. Drain the hot tub to expose the crack in the fiberglass. Turn off the breaker to the hot tub.
2.. Protect your hands with vinyl gloves, and your eyes with goggles. Wear a respirator to avoid breathing in fiberglass...
3.. Install a 1/16-inch drill bit into a cordless drill. Drill a small hole through the fiberglass at the...

Full Answer

How to fix a crack in a fiberglass tub?

Get hold of a putty knife and fill the crack with your fiberglass filler. After that, remove the excess putty by scraping the surface of your tub. Ensure that, even with the putty, the repair area is still flush with the rest of the surface of your bathtub. Let the putty dry as directed by the repair kit instructions. 5.

How to fix scratches and cracks in a hot tub?

These are the materials that can help you in fixing the scratches and cracks in the hot tub. However, if your hot tub has deep cracks and they have damaged fiberglass beneath the acrylic layer, then you will need the acrylic glass repairing material along with the above mentioned materials.

How do you fix a leaky hot tub?

Just follow these steps: Dry the damaged area with the soft towel. Clean the area with your hot tub cleaner. Apply the patch material from the repair kit, following the package instructions. Allow the patch material to dry according to package instructions. Sand the rough edges and bumps once the patch material has dried completely.

What should I do if my spa has a crack?

Don't forget to unplug and disconnect the hot tub from electricity. You might need to lift the spa to find the crack. Just be sure to have enough people to help. You don't want to drop the spa. Once you have pinpointed the crack follow the steps below. If your spa is too badly damaged you may need to hire a professional to complete the task.

Can you repair a crack in a fiberglass hot tub?

0:041:15How to Seal Cracks in a Hot Tub With Acrylic : Hot Tub Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou would need to drain your hot tub down to where the crack is. Make. Sure it's very very dry. AndMoreYou would need to drain your hot tub down to where the crack is. Make. Sure it's very very dry. And then you can either use a two-part epoxy such as this you'd want to put equal amounts of each.

How do you seal a crack in a fiberglass tub?

Fill the crack with fiberglass filler. Apply the filler with a putty knife, then scrape the surface of the tub with the knife to remove excess putty around the crack. Allow the putty to dry completely before continuing with the repair.

Can fiberglass crack be repaired?

1:1712:25How To Repair Fiberglass: Step-By-Step Guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou cannot do fiberglass repair over the gelcoat you have to get down to the raw fiberglass.MoreYou cannot do fiberglass repair over the gelcoat you have to get down to the raw fiberglass.

Can a cracked tub be repaired?

A bathtub chip or crack can be repaired. It is important to fix a crack or chip as it can worsen over time.

Can you patch a fiberglass tub?

No matter how bad a crack or an indentation may look, the process is the same as if it was a little pit. In either case, it's surprisingly simple. By using a basic epoxy kit with a few essential items, repairing a fiberglass tub takes as little as one day, with most of that time spent as the compound dries.

Can you caulk a crack in a tub?

Using 100% silicone caulk on your tub or shower enclosure will almost always solve your cracking or separation problems.

Can JB Weld be used on fiberglass?

The results of the JB Weld Plastic Bonder fiberglass repair were excellent. Not only was the process quick and easy, but the panels look like they did from factory. The bond is strong; we would use this stuff on just about any plastic or fiberglass component that needed to be repaired.

Can you repair fiberglass with epoxy?

Epoxy is a great adhesive One reason that an epoxy product such as WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy is so useful for fibreglass boat repairs is that it's an incredibly effective adhesive. It creates a resilient bond to fibreglass, cured polyester laminates, wood and metals – even when you only use a thin film.

How do you repair split fibreglass?

0:392:51How to Repair Deep Cracks in Fiberglass Boats - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing the disposable brush saturate it with epoxy. One at a time apply and saturate theMoreUsing the disposable brush saturate it with epoxy. One at a time apply and saturate the progressively smaller pieces of fiberglass.

How do I know if my tub is fiberglass or acrylic?

Look around the tub's edges and see if it appears thinner; this could be an indication that it is acrylic. Acrylic tubs usually come in more colors than fiberglass tubs, as fiberglass tubs are commonly white. Acrylic also feels warmer to the touch than fiberglass, and tubs made of acrylic have smoother finishes.

How do you repair a crack in a tub?

0:412:10How to Fix a Cracked or Chipped Bathtub - Epoxy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake the application stick that's provided for you grab a dab. And fill in the crack. Make sure youMoreTake the application stick that's provided for you grab a dab. And fill in the crack. Make sure you fill in fairly evenly.

How long do fiberglass tubs last?

10-15 yearsIt's one of the most affordable materials for tubs and one of the easiest to install. This super lightweight material is commonly used in two-story homes because there is no need to install additional support between the bathtub and the floor. Fiberglass tubs have a life span of 10-15 years.

What do I use to seal a fiberglass tub?

Mix the putty filler from the kit in a paper cup. There is a filler mix and there may be a separate top-coat mix depending on the brand of repair kit. Using a putty knife or applicator stick, apply the mixed putty to the crack in the tub, filling it completely. Smooth out the surface with the stick.

How do you fix a hairline crack in an acrylic tub?

How to Fix a Crack in an Acrylic BathtubUse Insulating Foam. Halt movement and flexing to prevent the crack from reappearing once you have fixed it. ... Drill Holes to Prevent the Crack From Spreading. ... Spread Filler Over the Crack. ... Sand the Filler. ... Paint Over the Repair. ... Add Additional Coats of Paint. ... Apply a Polish and Buff.

Will Flex Seal tape work on a bathtub?

We do not recommend using Flex Tape to repair the crack in your bathtub. Customers are constantly using the products for purposes beyond their intended use with mixed results. Many people have had success using Flex Seal Liquid on the walls of their bathtubs.

How do you fix a crack in a plastic bathtub?

0:044:29How to repair a cracked bathtub the right way - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo first you'll need your fiberglass resin. That's what's going to turn hard and seal it up theMoreSo first you'll need your fiberglass resin. That's what's going to turn hard and seal it up the fiberglass cloth will add strength. The hardener will turn the resin into a solid.

What to use to fix cracks in hot tub?

A Drill and Rotary Bit. You’ll only need a drill for larger cracks. It should have a rotary bit, so you can grind down the edges of the crack. Hot Tub Cleaner. As a hot tub owner, you likely have a cleaner from your local dealer on hand. If not, a comparable acrylic cleaning product from a hardware store will do.

What to do if you find a leak in your spa?

If you find a leak, you’ll have to drain your spa and start over. Enjoy your soak! Repairing a scratch or crack in your spa’s shell is typically a quick and relatively simple task. In fact, the part that will likely take the longest is draining and refilling your hot tub.

What is the best towel for hot tub?

A Soft Towel. The softer the towel, the less abrasive it will be to the surface of your hot tub shell. Microfiber towels, like those used in automotive repair, are good examples of low-abrasion towels. Sandpaper.

How long does it take to repair an acrylic shell?

Even a little damage can be a big disappointment. Fortunately, fixing minor cosmetic damage to the acrylic shell usually isn’t difficult; it might take an hour or two and should require only a few inexpensive and easy-to-find supplies. But cracks and scratches are very important to address. Left untreated, cracks can grow, extending ...

How to fix a small crack in a wall?

If it’s a larger crack, use the drill and bit to grind the edges into a “v” shape, and then fill it with patch material. The bottom of the “v” should be the base of the crack, with the sides sloping out to provide a seat for your plaster material. Apply only enough material to fill the crack.

What is the best way to repair a shell?

Sandpaper. You’ll probably be able to repair your shell with the most common sandpaper grain s in stock at hardware stores. If you’re looking for a greater degree of control over the results, have a range of grains on hand.

What happens if you fail to repair a covered damage?

If you attempt to repair covered damage on your own and fail, the warranty will no longer be valid. Once you assess the issue, decide if it’s something you feel comfortable repairing.

Why is my hot tub cracking?

Compromised Material and Workmanship. Very rarely, a hot tub will crack or be scratched due to a problem with the materials or workmanship. If this is the case, document the damage and contact the manufacturer immediately to put warranty protections into motion.

What to use to repair a tub?

A soft towel. A dremmel or other tool for grinding. A soldering iron. Once you’ve emptied, cleaned and dried the tub surface, you’re ready to do the repair itself. Use your soft towel to ensure the area to be repaired is fully cleaned out and free of dry debris.

How to fix a crack in acrylic?

Fill the space with epoxy from the acrylic repair kit, let it dry and then sand and buff it out until smooth. Melt the acrylic together: Run the hot soldering iron along a crack to melt together acrylic that has fully separated. You may need to push the iron into the acrylic to get to the bottom of the crack.

Why do hot tubs need to be emptied?

Standing Water Deteriorates the Acrylic. The hot tub must be emptied, cleaned and treated according to manufacturer instructions to avoid conditions that could deteriorate and weaken the acrylic. If the acrylic becomes to weak, it will be more likely to scratch and crack.

How to fix small scratches on a car?

For a small scratch, simply apply some epoxy from the repair kit, let it dry, and then sand and buff until smooth.

What to do if spa surface is damaged?

For any surface damage that falls under warranty, contact the manufacturer to seek repair or replacement. Be sure to know what’s required of you in terms of making the spa accessible and ordering any parts.

Can you use an acrylic hot tub in the sun?

The acrylic shell of the hot tub must not be exposed to sunlight when it’s not in use (whether it’s full or empty). The heat can influence the expansion and contraction of the surface, weakening the surface and increasing the likelihood of cracks. Always keep the tub covered when it’s not in use.

What are the Causes of Cracks andScratches on the Hot Tub Surface?

A hot tub could get scratched and cracks because of multiple reasons, and a hot tub could likely get scratched and cracks if the proper steps and precautions are not observed during the installation process. However, apart from the installation process, the following are some factors that could cause damage and loss.

How to Quickly Fix Cracks and Scratches?

You can quickly repair the hot tub to restore its former glory and beautiful look with a few easy steps. However, before going into the details of fixing the hot tub cracks and scratches, let’s discuss the causes of cracks and scratches on the hot tub surface? Why should you immediately fix the hot tub cracks and scratches? The answer to these potential questions will help you to prevent and avoid cracks and damages in the future.

How to Avoid Cracks and Scratches?

Once you fix the hot tub crack and scratches, you should take the necessary precautions to avoid the cracks and scratches in the future. China Royal Spa suggests following the following preventive measures.

Why Do Fiberglass Bathtubs Crack?

Fiberglass bathtubs may crack due to one or more of the following reasons.

Fiberglass Tub Cleaning Tips

You don’t need harsh chemicals to clean your fiberglass tub. These cleaners can degrade the surface and, after some time, create cracks on the tub.

Conclusion

Fiberglass bathtubs are a sturdy, long-lasting, and affordable alternative to regular metallic or ceramic bathtubs. However, fiberglass tubs can develop tiny cracks due to stress from insufficient support and wear and tear from consistent use.

Will Flex Seal Fix A Cracked Bathtub?

The most straightforward way people opt for when they face stress cracks in tubs is to apply flex seals. However, unfortunately, the flex seal doesn’t own materials and properties that can fill up the structural nitty-gritty or stress cracks.

How much does it cost to repair a crack in a fiberglass tub?

You can repair a crack in a fiberglass tub yourself using a fiberglass repair kit, which can cost as little as $50 . If the crack is too big in the tub surround, you may need to get a professional to fix it for you. This will cost between $80 and $150 (sometimes even more). The other type of crack on your bathtub is a stress crack ...

Why does my fiberglass tub have cracks?

If your fiberglass tub is used frequently, does not have the proper support , or is hit by a heavy object , it is likely to develop hairline cracks with time.

How to repair a crack in a car?

With the instructions from the repair kit, mix the epoxy gel coat to a good consistency then use a paintbrush to apply it to the cracked area. Ensure the gel covers the whole crack and an inch around it as well .

How to get rid of air bubbles in epoxy?

Apply a fiberglass cloth. Before the epoxy gel drys up, cut a piece of fiber glass cloth the size of the area to be covered and place it on the crack using your hand. To eliminate any air bubbles below this cloth, use your putty knife by running it across the cloth.

Why does my bathtub have a crack?

The other type of crack on your bathtub is a stress crack that is caused by heavy objects damaging the surface but not going deep inside the bathtub. There is also the spider crack which looks like a spider in that there is a hole in the middle then hairline cracks going in different directions.

What do you need for a fiberglass repair kit?

A typical fiberglass repair kit will have the following items: Protective gloves. Besides the repair kit, you will also need the following items: Given that there are chemicals involved in this process, you need to have the proper ventilation in the work area to avoid getting choked.

How to fix a crack in a wall?

Take a piece of the sandpaper then slowly sand the area surrounding the crack. With a soft brush, brush away the dust to leave a clean (but slightly rough) area.