How to Cover Chips in a Fiberglass Bathtub
Fiberglass bathtubs are a popular choice for installation in apartments, condos and homes. While fiberglass bathtubs are durable, they are far from indestructible. The fiberglass can become chipped, leaving the homeowner or renter wondering what he should do to cover them. Filling in the chip is a wise idea to avoid further damage. Not only will this action help preserve the tub's integrity, it also will make an unsightly chip much less noticeable. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Fiberglass tub cleaner
- Clean cloths
- Latex or rubber gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
- Medium-grit sandpaper
- Acetone
- Polyester filler
- Putty knife
- 220-, 320-, 400- and 600-grit wet/dry sandpaper
Instructions
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1
Clean and dry the chipped area. Any residue or substances on the surface can interfere with the filler that will be used to cover up the chip.
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2
Sand the chipped area with a medium-grit sandpaper. Even out the edges. Wipe the dust away with a clean cloth, and use acetone to clean the area. Wipe the area thoroughly to dry it.
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3
Fill the chipped area with polyester filler, using a putty knife. Slightly overfill the chip. Allow the filler to harden for at least two hours.
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4
Use wet 220-, 320-, 400- and then 600-grit wet/dry sandpaper to smooth out the filler. The repaired area should be even with the rest of the tub's surface.
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5
Apply rubbing compound to the area with a soft cloth to polish the area and blend it in with the surrounding surface.
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Tips & Warnings
Put on gloves, a dust mask and goggles. Fiberglass dust is a hazard to the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose.
If you desire to paint the repaired area, purchase a porcelain repair kit and use the paint included in it to paint over the area. Apply it with a cotton swab, allow to dry, sand with fine-grit sandpaper and polish the area with rubbing compound.
When sanding, sand only the area being repaired. Avoid sanding other parts of the fiberglass tub surface.
