How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Cracked Bathtub? (This Much)
Seeing a crack in your bathtub can cause major dread since replacing a bathtub is definitely an expensive endeavor. However, if it’s just a crack, do you need to replace the whole thing, or is it possible to just fix the crack?
Fixing a cracked bathtub can cost you between $100 and $300, depending on the materials and length of the crack. Thankfully, it is possible to fix just the crack of the tub instead of having to replace the entire tub.
Whether or not you should hire a professional for a job like this is a tricky decision. In this article, we’ll explore the professional and the DIY aspects of the job so that you can make the right decision for your bathroom.
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Here’s a Quick Pro Tip!
It is always frustrating when you start a DIY project only to find you don’t have all the tools and materials you need to finish your project. We want to help prevent that from happening to you!
There are three things you’ll definitely need for a DIY bathtub repair.
1. Respirator Mask – This will keep your lungs safe while working with harsh chemicals and sanding.
2. High-Quality Epoxy – This filler will ensure your bathtub crack has been sufficiently filled and is now leak-proof.
3. Electric Sander – Be sure to sand down the cracked area after filling it to avoid having rough edges that can hurt someone!
All About Bathtub Cracks
Having a cracked tub can be dangerous, not to mention messy. This section will discuss the basics of how and why your tub may have cracked and get into the best ways to get it fixed.
Can You Fix a Crack in a Bathtub?
If your tub has a small crack, you should be able to fix it yourself. However, if the crack goes all the way through to the floor, or if you notice significant water leakage, you may need to call a professional.
If you’re going to fix the crack yourself, we’ve got you covered. First, and most importantly, you’ll need a high-quality epoxy.
Next, apply the epoxy to a clean and dry crack and allow it to dry completely.
This may take up to 24 hours. Finally, if necessary, use a high-quality electric sander to sand down the epoxied area once dry.
Is It Normal for a Bathtub to Crack?
Fiberglass and even porcelain bathtubs are susceptible to cracks with age. These cracks may also be caused by poor supports, dropping heavy objects into the tub, or the repeated use of overly harsh cleaners.
One of the best ways to prevent cracks from forming in the first place is to ensure your tub is adequately supported. Most tubs are made from fiberglass, which is very flexible.
If the bathtub is not sufficiently supported, it will crack under its weight.
What Causes a Crack in a Tub?
Most bathtub cracks occur because the tub has poor supports, is made of cheap, flexible materials, or a heavy object drops on it. To help prevent cracks, be sure your tub has the proper supports.
Additionally, ensure your bathtub is being cleaned regularly with gentle cleaners.
Overly abrasive cleaners can cause the tub to erode and can exacerbate damage, leading to cracks. Instead, consider using a natural cleaner.
What Happens if a Bathtub Is Cracked?
If you notice a crack in your bathtub, be sure to seal it as soon as possible. A crack in your tub can lead to leaks, which you may not be able to see if it’s happening underneath the tub.
Left untreated, a leak can cause massive water damage to the floor underneath your bathroom.
In addition, leaks can lead to floor rot, and if left too long, the rot will lead to cave-ins on your bathroom floor, which will be very dangerous, and considerably more expensive to fix!
What Is the Best Way to Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
If your bathtub has a hairline or other tiny crack, you will be able to fix it yourself. Start by making sure the cracked area of your tub is both clean and completely dry. You’ll need a bit of time and some epoxy.
Use the epoxy to fill in the crack of your tub. Once the epoxy is on, leave it to dry for at least 24 hours.
Then, once the epoxy is completely dry, you’ll need to sand down any rough edges left by the filler. Then, you can paint over the area if needed.
Otherwise, your cracked bathtub should be good as new!
What Tools Do You Need to Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
To fix a cracked bathtub, you will first need cleaning supplies to ensure your tub is clean before beginning any repairs. Then, you will need epoxy and an electric sander to do the main job. Also, ensure that you have protective gear on hand such as a mask and goggles.
Here is a list of tools that you will need to fix a cracked bathtub:
- Protective gear, including goggles, a mask or respirator, and gloves.
First, ensure your tub is completely clean and dry. Then, with your gloves and mask or respirator on, mix and apply epoxy to the cracked area.
Allow the epoxy to dry completely for at least 24 hours. Once completely dry, sand down any rough edges to the epoxy.
Will Flex Seal Fix a Cracked Bathtub?
If flex seal is all you currently have available, it makes a good temporary fix for a cracked bathtub. However, flex seal is designed to hold gaskets in place, not to prevent water leaks, and it will eventually give out.
A liquid spray such as Flex Seal is great in a pinch. It will seal the crack in your bathtub for long enough for you to figure out a more permanent solution.
Eventually, however, you’ll want to fill the crack with epoxy permanently.
You might also enjoy our post on How to Fix a Cracked Toilet Seat
Cost to Repair a Cracked Bathtub
The big question of any home renovation or repair project is, ‘How much will this cost me?’ We’ve gotten in touch with the experts to get you the best answers. Stick with us!
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Cracked Bathtub?
If you feel confident repairing your cracked bathtub on your own, it’ll cost you under $50. If you have a professional look at it, expect them to charge you anywhere from $25-$75 an hour, plus the cost of materials.
If you decide to repair your cracked bathtub on your own, you’ll need a couple of things. Most importantly, you’ll need epoxy.
You will also want a mask if you do not currently own one. After the epoxy has dried, you’ll want to be able to sand down any rough edges.
How Much Does a Bathtub Repair Kit Cost?
A bathtub repair kit costs between $20 and $30 and contains disposable gloves, sandpaper, and adhesive. If you’re worried about buying all the materials to repair a crack in your bathtub on their own, a repair kit is a good option.
These bathtub repair kits may come in handy if you’re unsure how large your bathtub crack is. Be sure to purchase a kit of the correct color to match your bathtub.
Otherwise, you may need to paint over it once it’s dry.
How Much Does It Cost to Reglaze a Bathtub?
If you decide you want to reglaze your bathtub, be prepared for it to cost between $350 and $600. This price will cover both materials and labor. If you have a shower/bathtub combo, it may run up to $1200 to reglaze the entire unit.
This price point assumes that you will hire a professional to come in and do the reglazing of your bathtub.
However, if you consider yourself handy, you may want to consider purchasing a DIY bathtub reglazing kit.
Is It Cheaper to Refinish or Replace a Tub?
It will be cheaper to refinish a bathtub versus completely replacing it. Refinishing your bathtub simply requires a new paint job instead of having your current tub taken out and a new bathtub put in its place.
If you decide you want to replace your bathtub, it will cost thousands of dollars, assuming you hire a professional.
However, if you wish to refinish the current bathtub, you can do it yourself with a reglazing kit for about $150.
What Is the Difference Between Reglazing and Refinishing a Bathtub?
Refinishing a bathtub typically refers to the entire process of fixing cosmetic and structural issues of your bathtub. Reglazing is simply the last step of the refinishing project and refers to only the final painting of the tub.
Reglazing is the cheapest and easiest way to give your bathroom and bathtub a minor facelift. It will allow you to change the shade of the bathtub yourself.
Plus, it makes the entire room feel refreshed without costing you thousands of dollars in refinishing costs.
You might also enjoy our post on If a Cracked Toilet Tank Can be Repaired
How Much Do Plumbers Charge per Hour?
Plumbers charge between $50 and $120 per hour, depending on the circumstances. Our local plumber charges a base rate of $75/hr Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm. Any nights or weekend emergencies will cost over $100/hr.
While this may seem very high, remember that you are paying for their experience and things like overhead, equipment and vehicle maintenance, tools, and insurance premiums.
They may also charge you for materials and trip fees.
Why Are Plumbers So Expensive?
Plumbers are expensive because of their unique expertise. They also have to cover all their expenses themselves. This can include union fees, overhead, vehicle repair and maintenance, materials, and much more.
Make sure you thoroughly vet your plumber before agreeing to a price. Your plumber should have an accreditation from The Better Business Bureau.
Always expect to pay more if you have a plumbing emergency.
How Much Does a Standard Bathtub Cost?
A standard bathtub should cost between $500 and $2,000. But, of course, how much you can expect to pay will depend on several factors, such as the type of tub and any additional plumbing work required.
Expect to pay less for a fiberglass tub and more for porcelain or cast iron. You may also find copper or acrylic for similar prices.
It may cost more if you purchase a bathtub and shower combined unit versus a freestanding soaking tub.
How to Fix a Cracked Bathtub
Another big question about bathtubs is ‘How do I fix issues with my tub.’ In this section, we’ll be going over some common fixes and how to tell the difference between different tub types.
How Do You Fix a Crack in a Plastic Bathtub?
You can fix a crack in your plastic bathtub without hiring a professional. But, first, ensure that the cracked area is completely clean and dry before attempting to use any kind of filler on the bathtub.
You’ll need epoxy to fill in the bathtub’s crack. Make sure the epoxy has filled the cracked area thoroughly, then give the epoxy at least 24 hours to completely dry.
Once dry, you can sand down any rough edges left by the epoxy. Make sure you wear a respirator while doing this DIY project!
How Do You Fix a Crack in a Fiberglass Bathtub?
Fixing a crack in a fiberglass bathtub is considered one of the most straightforward bathroom fixes. You can do it yourself by filling in the crack with epoxy and allowing it to dry completely, filling in the crack.
Make sure you complete this fix the right way! Start by getting yourself a high-quality epoxy and a respirator. Next, apply the epoxy to your clean and dry surface.
Allow the epoxy to dry for at least 24 hours. Once dry, you can sand down any rough edges left by the filler.
How Do I Know if My Tub Is Plastic or Fiberglass?
To tell if your tub is plastic (also known as acrylic) or fiberglass, start by assessing the color. Fiberglass will be white or fade to yellow, whereas plastic can come in various colors. Fiberglass is also thinner and colder to the touch than acrylics or plastics.
Both plastic and fiberglass bathtubs are considered durable. However, plastics or acrylic tubs will be more expensive to repair in the event they crack.
If you want something that will be cheaper in the long run, consider buying fiberglass.
How Do You Fix a Hairline Crack in an Acrylic Tub?
You can fix a hairline crack in your acrylic bathtub without hiring a professional. Instead, you’ll need either a bathtub repair kit or epoxy. Of course, you’ll want to ensure that your tub is clean and dry before starting the repair.
You’ll want to fill in the cracked area with epoxy or the filler from your bathtub repair kit. Allow the filler material to dry completely for at least 24 hours.
Once dry, sand the filler until smooth to the touch, and paint with your preferred paint color.
You might also enjoy our post on If a Toilet Can Fall Through The Floor
Related Questions
Can a Cracked Toilet Be Repaired?
A cracked toilet is a pretty easy DIY fix. You probably have most of what you’ll need to do the repair already around your home if you’re a DIY’er, and if not, you can pick it all up for under $50.
To seal a cracked toilet, start by shutting off the water to the toilet. Then drain the toilet entirely and dry. Once dry, apply epoxy to the crack.
Allow the epoxy to dry completely for at least 24 hours. Once the epoxy dries, you are okay to turn the water back on and allow the tank to fill.
What Would Cause a Toilet Bowl to Crack?
The most common causes of a cracked toilet bowl include dropping something heavy on it, old age, or an accident during a DIY project. One common cause is overtightening bolts when moving or repairing other problems.
If the crack of your toilet bowl is small, you should be able to fix it yourself with some epoxy.
However, if the crack is more extensive, you may need to have a professional check it out and possibly replace it with a new model.
Final Thoughts
Finding a crack in your bathtub doesn’t have to be a huge deal. Given a little time and a lot of epoxy, you should be able to get your tub repaired and leak-proof with minimal hassle. Enjoy!
