How to Fix Chips in a Fiberglass Bathtub

Repairing chips in your fiberglass bathtub yourself can save you money.

Chips in a fiberglass bathtub are unsightly and can collect soap scum, dirt and mildew. They also weaken the structure of the tub and can turn into large cracks or holes over time. Some homeowners choose to hire expensive professionals to repair their bathtubs, but you can do it yourself for a fraction of the cost. Most homeowners can complete this task in the span of an afternoon.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Bathtub cleaner
• Sponge
• Hair dryer
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Soft cloth
• Epoxy resin
• Gel coat enamel
• Applicator sponge

Instructions

1. Clean the surface of the bathtub with a chemical cleaner. Rinse away the cleaner and make sure there is no soap scum or dirt left in the tub.

2. Dry the surface of the tub with a hair dryer. The epoxy resin will not adhere to the fiberglass if there is any moisture on the surface of the tub.

3. Sand, lightly, the edges of the chipped area. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any fiberglass particles. Sanding is an important step for creating a smooth, unnoticeable repair.

4. Fill in the chipped area with epoxy resin, smoothing the resin with one side of the applicator sponge so it blends with the surface of the tub. Allow the resin to cure for at least two hours.

5. Apply gel coat enamel over the epoxy resin with the other side of the applicator sponge. Let it sit for 24 hours before using the bathtub.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for gel coat enamel that matches the color of your tub. This enamel is available in a variety of colors at home improvement stores.

• Open a window or set up another means of ventilation before starting this task. Fumes from the epoxy resin and gel coat enamel can irritate your eyes and lungs.

• Wear a particle filter mask when sanding chips in your fiberglass tub to avoid breathing in fiberglass dust.

References

• Happy Living: How to Repair a Fiberglass Bathtub