If you have ever noticed a crack in your bathtub, you know how frustrating it can be. Cracks in bathtubs are a common occurrence and can be caused by various factors. While there are different ways to fix a cracked bathtub, some people wonder if they can use flex seal tape as a solution.
Unfortunately, flex seal tape is not a permanent solution for fixing a cracked bathtub. However, it can be used as a temporary solution to prevent leaking before you get a permanent fix. In this article, we will discuss why flex seal tape is not a permanent solution and explore other ways to fix a cracked bathtub. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to support a fiberglass bathtub to prevent cracking.
What Are The Possible Causes of The Cracked Bathtub?
There are three main causes of a cracked bathtub that you should be aware of. By understanding these causes, you can take steps to prevent bathtub cracks and keep your bathtub in good condition for years to come.
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Dropping Heavy Objects: One major cause of cracked bathtubs is dropping heavy objects on the surface. Bathtubs are not designed to handle the weight of heavy objects like tools, so it is important to avoid dropping them in the tub. Even dropping a heavy shampoo bottle can cause a crack to form.
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Using Aggressive Cleaners: Bathtub cracks can also be caused by using aggressive cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. These cleaners can damage the surface of the bathtub and weaken its structural properties. To prevent bathtub cracks, use only recommended cleaning products.
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Improper Installation: Finally, bathtub cracks can be caused by improper installation. It is important to hire a licensed and professional plumber to install your bathtub to ensure that it is properly installed and has no leaks.
By taking steps to prevent bathtub cracks, such as avoiding dropping heavy objects, using recommended cleaning products, and hiring a professional plumber for installation, you can keep your bathtub in good condition and avoid costly repairs.
Will Flex Seal Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
If you have a cracked bathtub, you might be wondering if Flex Seal is a good solution for fixing it. While Flex Seal is a popular product for sealing leaks, it is not the best choice for repairing a cracked bathtub.
Flex Seal does not have the necessary structural properties to fill up the crack in your bathtub, so it cannot provide a permanent fix. Additionally, Flex Seal is sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so it may not work well if the temperature in your bathroom varies.
However, Flex Seal can be used as a temporary solution to stop leaks in your bathtub. If you apply a thick layer of Flex Seal tape to the cracked surface, it can help to seal the crack for a few days. But keep in mind that this is not a permanent fix, and you will eventually need to find a lasting solution to your cracked bathtub.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, there are other alternatives to Flex Seal that may work better. For example, you could try using a rubberized waterproof tape or a watertight sealant to fill up the crack in your bathtub. These products are designed to provide a stronger, more watertight bond than Flex Seal.
In summary, while Flex Seal can be a useful product for sealing leaks, it is not the best choice for fixing a cracked bathtub. If you need a temporary solution to stop leaks, you can use Flex Seal tape, but you will eventually need to find a more permanent fix to prevent the crack from widening and eventually breaking your bathtub.
How to Fix a Cracked Bathtub Permanently?
If you are facing a cracked bathtub, you may wonder how to fix it permanently. A bathtub repair kit is the perfect solution for fixing cracks in porcelain, acrylic, and fiberglass surfaces. These kits come with all the necessary materials required to fix the crack, making it easy for you to do it yourself. You can purchase a bathtub repair kit from a physical or online hardware or plumbing store.
To fix the crack, you need to clean the surface properly and apply the epoxy resin glue from the kit. Use a putty knife to spread the epoxy putty on the crack and ensure that it is evenly distributed. Allow the epoxy putty to dry completely before sanding it down to make it smooth.
After sanding, apply a crack stabilizing primer to the surface and let it dry. Finally, apply an epoxy resin coating on the surface to give it a smooth finish. This will ensure a permanent solution to your cracked bathtub problem.
If you are unsure about the steps, you can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions provided with the bathtub repair kit. Repairing bathtub cracks yourself will save you money compared to hiring a professional to fix it for you. This is a simple and effective DIY project that can be completed in a few hours using a bathtub repairing kit.
FAQs
If you’re dealing with a cracked bathtub, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
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Can flex seal tape fix my cracked bathtub permanently? Unfortunately, no. Flex seal tape can only cover the crack for a few days before you need a permanent solution.
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What are the possible causes of bathtub cracks? There are three main causes of bathtub cracks: improper installation, dropping heavy objects in the bathtub, and washing the bathtub with aggressive cleaners.
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What is the permanent solution for bathtub cracks? The best way to permanently fix bathtub cracks is to use a bathtub repair kit.
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What is the best way to fix a crack in a metal bathtub? The best way to fix cracks in metal bathtubs is by welding them.
Remember, it’s important to properly address any cracks in your bathtub to prevent further damage and ensure a safe and comfortable bathing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you have a crack in your bathtub, using flex seal tape is not a permanent solution. While it can be a temporary solution to prevent water leakage, it lacks the necessary structural properties to fill up the crack and is also affected by changes in temperature. Therefore, it is recommended to seek a lasting solution to fix the crack. As a professional plumber with over 16 years of experience, it is my advice to explore other options such as epoxy, fiberglass, or acrylic repair kits. These options are more durable and can provide a long-term solution to fix the crack in your bathtub. Remember to always consult a professional plumber for the best solution to your plumbing problems.
