What To Do About Chipped Bathtubs
If you’ve ever had a chip in your bathtub, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does it look unsightly, but it can also be difficult to clean. There is also that uncomfortable feeling of the rough chipped area against your skin. Of course, if it’s left alone, it can get worse! In this blog post, we will discuss the different ways that chips in bathtubs can be repaired, as well as the pros and cons of each method. We will also provide tips for preventing chips in your bathtub from happening in the first place!
Can chips in bathtubs be repaired?
Yes, chips in bathtubs can be repaired. However, the method that you use will depend on the severity of the chip.
- If the chip is small and shallow, it can be repaired with a touch-up kit.
- For medium-sized chips, you will need to use a patching compound. This can be found at most hardware stores as well. You will also need sandpaper and a putty knife.
- If you have a chip that is very large or deep, you may need to call a professional to repair it.
I am happy to walk you through each of these scenarios as well as a few other tips for bathtub maintenance, so read on to learn more!
Repairing A Small Bathtub Chip
If you have a small bathtub chip, the best way to repair it is with a touch-up kit. These kits can be found at most hardware stores and are relatively inexpensive. To use a touch-up kit, simply follow the instructions on the package.
In most cases, you will need to clean the area around the chip with rubbing alcohol, then sand it down until it is smooth. Next, you will apply a coat of touch-up paint to the chip and let it dry. Finally, you will need to seal the chip with a clear sealant. This will help protect it from future damage. This method will usually work with chips that are less than ½ inch in size.
Repairing A Medium Bathtub Chip
If you have a medium-sized chip in your bathtub, the best way to repair it is with a patching compound. Patching compounds can be found at most hardware stores. To use a patching compound, you will first need to clean the area around the chip with rubbing alcohol. Next, you will need to apply the patching compound to the chip using a putty knife.
Once the patching compound is in place, you will need to let it dry for 24 hours. After it has dried, you will need to sand down the area until it is smooth. Finally, you will need to apply a coat of paint to the area and let it dry. This method will usually work with chips that are less than 1 inch in size.
Repairing A Large Bathtub Chip
If you have a large or deep chip in your bathtub, you may need to call a professional to repair it. This is because the chip will need to be filled with an epoxy resin to properly repair it. A professional can also look for signs of more chipping coming soon and pre-treat them.
If you do decide to call a professional, make sure to consider these things first:
- Ask for referrals from friends and family.
- Get at least three estimates before deciding on a contractor.
- Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
- Read reviews of the contractor’s work.
- Be prepared to pay a deposit, as many contractors require one.
Preventing Chips In Your Bathtub
The best way to deal with a chipped bathtub is to prevent it from happening in the first place! Here are a few tips that will help you do just that:
- Use gentle cleansers on your tub. Harsh chemicals can damage the finish and make it more susceptible to chipping.
- Be careful when using bath mats and other accessories. Make sure they have suction cups or another way to stay in place so they don’t slide around and cause the tub to chip.
- Avoid dropping heavy objects into the tub. This includes things like shampoo bottles, loofahs, etc.
- Use a soft cloth when cleaning the tub. Abrasive materials can damage the finish and lead to chipping.
- Be careful about DIY projects like painting your bathtub. If you’re not experienced, it’s best to leave this kind of project to the professionals.
The Main Causes Of Chipping
Perhaps you’ve noticed a chip or two in your bathtub and are wondering how it got there. There are a few main causes of chipping in bathtubs:
Accidental damage
- This is the most common cause of chips in bathtubs and can happen from things like dropping objects into the tub or slipping and falling.
Excessive wear and tear
- Over time, the finish on your bathtub can start to wear away, which can lead to chips and other damage.
Neglect
- If you don’t clean your bathtub regularly, dirt and grime can build up and cause the finish to deteriorate.
Age
- As your bathtub gets older, it may start to show signs of wear and tear, including chips and cracks.
No matter how your bathtub got chipped, the best way to deal with it is to repair it as soon as possible. Chips can lead to further damage if left untreated, so don’t wait until it’s too late!
What Not To Do
When it comes to bathtub chips and other issues, there are a few things you shouldn’t do. The first is to try and cover up the chip with something like nail polish. This might seem like a good idea, but it will only make the problem worse. The second is to try and repair the chip yourself without knowing what you’re doing. This could end up making the issue worse or even causing more damage. If you’re not sure how to repair a chip, it’s best to call a professional.
Another thing to avoid is making any repairs before checking your warranty first. If it is a newer bathtub, you may be able to get the repairs done for free or at a reduced cost. Check with the store that you purchased from to hear your options.
Warning Signs To Watch For
Now that we know what causes chipping in bathtubs and how to prevent them, what are the warning signs to look for? Before a chip happens, you may notice the following:
- Stains – If you notice any stains on your bathtub, it’s a good idea to clean them as soon as possible. Stains can lead to further damage if left untreated.
- Scratches – Scratches in the finish of your bathtub can make it more susceptible to chipping. Be sure to clean and polish your tub regularly to avoid this.
- Cracks – If you see any cracks in your bathtub, it’s important to repair them right away. Cracks can lead to larger chips and more damage if left untreated.
If you notice any of these warning signs, be sure to take action right away! The sooner you address the issue, the less chance there is of further damage.
Now that you know all about chips in bathtubs, you can be sure to avoid them in your own home! Be sure to follow the tips we’ve outlined and take action right away if you notice any warning signs. With a little care and attention, you can keep your bathtub looking good as new for years to come!
Related Questions
How many chips are too many to ignore?
If you have more than even one chip, it’s time to take action and repair them. Don’t wait until it’s too late! If you don’t get help right away, chips can lead to further damage.
Is it worth it to try and repair a chip yourself?
It depends. If the chip is small and you’re confident in your abilities, then it might be worth it to try and repair it yourself. However, if the chip is large or you’re not sure what you’re doing, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
When should I replace my bathtub?
If your bathtub is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace it. Chips, cracks, and other damage can make your tub unsafe and lead to further problems down the road. If you’re not sure whether or not you should replace your tub, it’s best to consult a professional. A few small chips or scratches usually don’t justify a total replacement.
Is tub repair expensive?
It depends on the severity of the damage and who repairs it. Generally, tub repair is not too expensive, but it’s always best to get a quote before you start any repairs. In most cases, however, it is cheaper to repair than to replace so keep that in mind! Not only are repairs usually less expensive, but it is also less time-consuming as well. It is typically a lot longer of a process to replace a tub than it is to simply repair.
