How to Fix the Space Between Bathtub Spout & Fiberglass Surround
Many times when a tub spout is replaced the new spout might not fit correctly. This could leave a gap around the spout that will need to be filled in. For fiberglass tubs you can use a fiberglass filler and gel coat that matches the color of your tub. Filler is a putty like material that requires a catalyst in order to harden. Gel coat is a fiberglass paint which consists of high quality resin that's pigmented with color. Gel coat also has additives such as wax which gives the gel coat it's shiny and hard finish. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Respirator
- Safety glasses
- Dye grinder
- Rags
- Acetone
- Wood stir sticks
- Hot glue gun
- Fiberglass filler
- Catalyst
- Putty knife
- 100 Grit sandpaper
- 200 Grit sandpaper
- Gel coat
- Small bucket
- Paint brush
Instructions
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1
Using a pencil mark on the fiberglass surround where the gap or gaps are. Remove the spout from the tub.
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2
Put on a respirator and safety glasses and gradually taper the edge of the opening in the fiberglass surround where the gaps are using a dye grinder. This will give the filler surface area to bond to.
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3
Wipe the surface clean using a rag and acetone.
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4
Break 2-inch long pieces of a wooden stir sticks to use as a backing for the filler. Glue the stir stick pieces on the inside of the hole going directly across where the gaps are. Let the glue dry.
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5
Put on rubber gloves and mix the catalyst into the filler following the directions on the containers. Apply the filler to the gaps using a putty knife. Smooth the filler out so it's level with the surrounding fiberglass. Let the filler cure until it's hard and cool to the touch.
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6
Sand the filler using a palm sander with 100 grit sandpaper followed by 200 grit sandpaper until the filler's smooth and blends in with the surrounding fiberglass. Lightly scuff an extra 3 inches all the way around the filler on the fiberglass surround.
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7
Mix the gel coat and hardener together in a small bucket using a stir stick. Follow the recommendations on the containers for the right amount of catalyst. Apply the first of three coats to the sanded fiberglass using a paint brush. Let the first coat begin to harden and apply the second coat. Repeat the same process for the third coat and let the gel coat harden. Let the gel coat cure for 24 hours before running the water.
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8
Reconnect the spout to the tub.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Always wear a respirator when working with fiberglass.
