Elbow Grease Required, Plumber Not Included

So there you are, minding your own business when you spot it. The dreaded crack. That unsightly blemish on your otherwise perfect bathtub is really putting a damper on your relaxing bubble baths. We’ve all been there, looking at a crack or chip in our bathtubs, wishing we had the power to wave our magic home-repair wand and poof it away. Well, grab your tool belt, my fellow home warriors, because today—we fix that crack!

Size Matters: Know What You're Dealing With

In the wonderful world of bathtub cracks, size does indeed matter. Your bathtub isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither are the solutions to its woes. It's like having a small scrape versus a gashing wound—you wouldn't use a band-aid for a gaping gouge, right? So let's break things down based on crack size.

Small Cracks and Chips

These are the easiest to fix. Gather your gear and let's dive right in!

Here’s what you’ll need:- Tub repair kit (they come in different colours, pick your match)- 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper - Rubbing Alcohol- Razor Blade

The Steps:

1. Clean the area around the crack thoroughly using rubbing alcohol.
2. Following the instructions on your tub repair kit, mix the parts together.
3. Apply the mixture to the crack using a razor blade, smoothing it to be flush with the other surface.
4. Allow it to dry thoroughly according to the kit's instructions.
5. Once dry, use your sandpaper to carefully smooth the surface until it blends seamlessly with the rest of your tub. There you have it!

Large Cracks

For these behemoths, we’ve got to up our game. Sure, it’s going to be a bit more complex, but I have faith in you, DIYdom.

Here’s what you’ll need:- Fiberglass mesh- Two-part epoxy resin- Disposable brush- Plastic putty knife- Sandpaper (ranging from 80 to 400 grit)

The Steps:

1. Clean the tub surface thoroughly, ensuring it's free of any grime or soap scum.
2. Cut a piece of fiberglass mesh to fit over the crack.
3. Mix your epoxy according to the instructions.
4. Using a disposable brush, apply a layer of epoxy to the crack.
5. Lay the fiberglass mesh over the epoxy-filled crack. Smooth it out with your putty knife.
6. Apply another layer of epoxy over the mesh, making sure it's fully saturated. Allow it to dry.
7. Once dry, it's sanding time! Start with 80-grit sandpaper and gradually work your way up to 400-grit, ensuring that the repair job blends seamlessly with the rest of the tub.
8. Finally, you can apply a gel coat if the repair doesn't match the rest of your tub.

Feeling Like a Pro Yet?

Now, aren’t you glad to didn't dial up that plumber just yet? Remember, the key to a successful DIY project lies within patience, elbow grease, and just a smidgen of courage. Who knew handling a chipped or cracked bathtub could be this fun and rewarding? So, the next time you spot a little imperfection in your tub, remember – You've got this handled. In fact, go ahead and put your feet up, maybe enjoy a nice, relaxing bubble bath. You've earned it!

Now, onto the next adventure! Hardware worrywarts, beware. We’ve got our DIY spirit fired up, and no crack, chip or fissure stands a chance. Now, where did I put that wrench…?