Bathtub damage is something that you can repair all on your own. Just get a bathtub patch kit and follow the instructions. The process isn’t too difficult and it’s a good skill to have in case it happens again. Below is a basic overview:

Check for Compatibility

Tubs are made from different types of materials so make sure that you get the right patch kit for your bathroom. Fiberglass and cast iron are the most popular ones. A gentle tap with your knuckle should result in a non-metallic sound if it’s fiberglass.

Clean the Surface

The surface of the material needs to be clean to ensure strong adhesion. Don’t just wipe the off dirt. Use sandpaper to get rid of oil, soap scum, wax, and other unwanted substances. Rinse with a solvent such as acetone.

Cover with Fiberglass Cloth

Check the width of the crack or hole. If it is about half a centimeter wide, then you need to place fiberglass cloth reinforcement. This is usually included in the kit. Just cut a piece that is bigger than the hole. Two or more layers may be needed for larger cracks to make it stronger. Otherwise, the middle will be easy to damage again with nothing holding the resin down.

Mix the Materials

Mix the resin and the hardener in a cup. You might also need to add a colorant. Make sure that you are using the right amounts for each to get the desired consistency. Compare the color of your mixture to that of your bathtub patch kit. Mix thoroughly and don’t forget to go deep and scrape the sides of the cup. This could get messy so placing an old newspaper beneath the cup may be a good idea.

Apply to Damage

The hardener accelerates the process. In most cases, you will only have between 10 to 15 minutes to apply the mix before it hardens. A flat tool works best for this application. A putty knife will do. Place an amount that is enough to cover the holes and cracks while adding a bit more. Wait for two hours or more to let the resin harden even more.

Sand and Buff

This additional mixture will be removed once the tub is sanded down. In its place will be a surface that is even and smooth to the touch, as if there was never any damage. You could add another layer of the resin without the hardener and apply with a small brush. Wait until hard and sand again with a finer sandpaper.