What Do You Put in Your Tub if Its Peeling and Cracking?
- If your bathtub is only peeling and there is no sign of structural cracking, then you probably have a paint issue -- the layer of paint that was used is not adhering properly. This occurs because the paint was not designed for the material of your tub. Ceramic tiles are not meant to be painted at all. Oil and water-based paints alike rarely fare well in the bathtub. Sometimes, the best solution is removing these paints and leaving the original tub surface.
- If you have small holes or cracks in your tub, you may be able to fix them by using basic filler materials. Insulation foam can help fill the spaces behind your tub if you have to remove a section to work on. Putties designed for waterproofing can help cover small holes or cracks that would otherwise be an entry point for water.
- If you have a fiberglass tub that has cracked, new matting and backerboard can often help fix the issue. These are made with inlays that can be bonded directly onto the tub and then covered with a new coating or resin that helps smooth the area over. You should also use filler foam on either end of the crack to help stabilize it and prevent it from spreading further.
- If you have a porcelain tub, reglazing is your primary option for removing cracks or peeling surfaces. For minor projects, use epoxy repair kits to treat the cracks yourself. These can also work for other materials. For major damage, hire professional reglazers to treat your entire bathtub by adding and smoothing a brand new layer that is free of cracking problems.