How to Fix a Fiberglass Shower Tub in an RV Trailer
Typically, showers and tubs are constructed out of fiberglass, which is a strong, durable material. Generally, fiberglass showers and tubs last a long time, but like anything else, they are susceptible to damage. When damage does occur, it's usually a minor crack or fracture that can easily be repaired with a fiberglass filler. Filler is basically a fiberglass putty that requires catalyst to harden. All fiberglass repair materials can be found at your local auto body supply store.
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Things You'll Need
- Respirator
- Safety glasses
- Dye grinder
- Rags
- Acetone
- Rubber gloves
- Fiberglass filler
- Catalyst
- Putty knife
- 200 Grit sandpaper
- Gel coat
- Small bucket
- Stir stick
- Paint brush
Instructions
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1
Put on safety glasses and a respirator and grind directly on the crack until all the damaged and frayed material is removed, forming a grove in the fiberglass. Gradually taper the edges of the grove, giving the filler more surface area to which to bond.
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2
Clean the surface of the repair thoroughly with a rag and acetone.
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3
Put on a pair of rubber gloves and mix the catalyst with the filler following the recommendations on the container. Apply the catalyzed filler to the repair using a putty knife. Smooth the filler so it's level with the surrounding fiberglass and let it harden.
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4
Sand the filler with 200-grit sandpaper until it's completely smooth with no visible edge lines. Clean the surface with a rag and acetone.
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5
Mix the gel coat with catalyst in a small bucket using a stir stick. Apply the gel coat to the repair surface using a paint brush and let the gel coat harden. If the gel coat doesn't completely cover with the first coat, apply another coat and let it harden for 24 hours before running water.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear rubber gloves when working with catalyzed fiberglass materials to avoid chemical burns.
