How do I Repair Small Nicks in a Bathtub?

Bathtubs should be maintained to ensure long-term use.

Having a nick in your bathtub is not only unsightly, it can also cause future problems that could be much worse. The nick, over time, can rust and though you may only see a small spot of rust, the rust may be traveling underneath your bathtub's enamel-coated surface. Repairing bathtub nicks as soon as you spot them can greatly reduce any possible corrosion you may encounter and will keep your bathtub looking and functioning at its best.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper (500 grit)
• Dremel or carbide-cutting tool
• Bathtub epoxy
• Enamel gel coat
• Paint brush

Instructions

1. Clean the area around the nick thoroughly and remove any embedded grime from within the nick. Dry the area completely.

2. Use a piece of Dremel tool or a carbide-cutting tool to widen the damaged area slightly and remove the enamel coating. Create a channel with the cutting tool along the length of the nick. If the nick is very small or not too deep, you may only need to use sandpaper to widen the nicked area.

3. Sand down the area with a piece of fine 500-grit sandpaper to smooth off any rough edges left from the cutting. Brush away any remaining debris with a dry paint brush.

4. Apply a bathtub epoxy to the nick and smooth the area using the applicator. Allow the epoxy to dry overnight, then sand down the epoxy with 500-grit sandpaper to smooth it evenly into the surrounding area.

5. Brush off the area again then apply an enamel gel coating to the area. Let it dry overnight again before you use your bathtub.

Tips & Warnings

• Bathtub repair kits are available and can be found at your local home and garden supply storest.

• Avoid eye contact with the epoxy. This can cause serious irritation.

References

• Surface Specialists: Bathroom Repair
• Super Plumbing: Repairing Bathtub Chips
• Bob Vila: Bathtub and Surround Repair

Resources

• OLX: Bathtub Repair Kit