How to repair a crack in an acrylic bathtub

Modern technologies have not bypassed various plumbing products. For example, baths. Thus, acrylic tanks replaced outdated cast iron baths.

The products are lighter, retain water temperature well, and are easy to install. Therefore, they are very popular among consumers.

But, like any other plumbing fixture, an acrylic bathtub is not immune to various defects: scratches, chips, cracks. If you encounter such a problem, there is no need to rush to the store for a new bath, because you can fix the problem yourself. Having knowledge of the technology for performing restoration work, you can cope with this on your own.

Surface preparation for repairing an acrylic bathtub

If you use it carelessly or drop heavy objects, chips, scratches and cracks form on the surface of the bathtub. To prevent the defect from spreading, it must be eliminated immediately. But before starting restoration work, the surface of the plumbing needs to be carefully prepared.

Stages of preparatory work:

1. Drain off any water if there is any.
2. Use cleaning products to thoroughly clean the surface. To do this, you should take soft detergents: cream, gel, paste. This way you will protect the surface from scratches that will be left by substances with abrasive particles.You can use regular soap solution.
3. The damaged area needs to be cleaned especially thoroughly, so apply an additional layer of detergent to it and leave for half an hour.
4. After this period, rinse the surface with running water.
5. The last stage is degreasing the tank. After which you need to wipe it dry with a soft cloth.

How and with what to repair a crack in an acrylic bathtub with your own hands

The easiest way to eliminate defects in a cast iron bathtub is to use a regular sealant. But it is worth keeping in mind that this is a short-lived repair option. For a more thorough restoration you will need:

• special tape;
• acrylic composition;
• epoxy putty;
• "skin".

Reference! The choice of suitable material depends on the extent of the damage. Thus, scratches with an area of ​​no more than 3 cm can be eliminated using epoxy resin. Larger defects will require special tape.

Eliminating small defects looks like this:

1. If you decide to use an acrylic composition, you must first mix it thoroughly.
2. The previously prepared surface should be degreased, and the defect area should be widened with a knife - this way the composition will be better fixed on the surface of the tank.
3. Using a spatula, apply a small amount to the damaged area.
4. Cover the composition with masking tape and leave it overnight.
5. After this period, the tape must be removed and the surface wiped with alcohol. Then you can start sanding.
6. To restore shine to the surface, apply polish.

If the scratch is more than 1 mm wide, then you should use a special repair tape.

How to restore:

1. The first stage is preparing the bath. After this, you can begin to eliminate the damage.
2. It is necessary to drill small holes along the edges of the scratch. After which the crack must be cleaned of dust. To do this, just wipe it with a sponge and soapy water and dry it completely.
3. Next, measure out the required amount of tape. This needs to be done with a small margin.
4. It is necessary to remove the protective film from the tape and apply it to the crack with the sticky side.
5. The tape needs to be smoothed out so that there are no wrinkles or air bubbles left.
6. Wait until it completely sticks to the surface of the bathtub.

To fix a small scratch, use epoxy putty. The repair takes place in several stages:

1. The prepared surface must be additionally treated with sandpaper. You need to clean both the scratch itself and the surface around it. This will allow the putty to penetrate the scratch better.
2. Using a small drill, you need to make holes no more than 1 mm deep along the entire length of the crack. Then remove the dust, wash the surface with soapy water, and dry.
3. Prepare the putty according to the instructions on the label.
4. Apply the composition carefully. This needs to be done in several layers. Moreover, each layer must be applied across the previous one.
5. Leave the bowl until the epoxy is completely dry. Usually this time takes at least 12 hours.
6. After which you need to carefully sand the damaged area.

Reference! Restoration using epoxy putty should be carried out in a well-ventilated area. Also, do not allow the composition to come into contact with the skin.

Features of operation of acrylic bathtubs

To avoid having to repair the acrylic coating of plumbing fixtures, you need to follow simple recommendations. This way you will not only avoid scratches, chips and cracks, but also increase the service life of your plumbing fixtures.

Here are some tips:

1. If you have a pet, place a rubber mat on the bottom of the bowl when washing it.
2. Avoid products containing abrasive particles. For care, use gels, creams, pastes.
3. Avoid falling heavy objects.
4. Do not place basins or buckets in the bathtub. If you need to add water, use a hose.

Restoring a bathtub is a troublesome task, but anyone can handle it. You just need to choose the appropriate option and follow the instructions exactly. Careful attitude and proper care will save you from the need to eliminate various defects.