Why a DIY Bathtub Crack Repair Solution is Ideal
In the past, cracked or damaged bathtubs required expensive replacements or professional repairs. But now, with innovative DIY solutions like bathtub crack repair kits, specifically the BATHBONDS bathtub & shower inlay kits, homeowners can handle repairs themselves with minimal cost. Using a bathtub or shower inlay kit allows you to:
Save Money: Inlays are affordable compared to the expense of a full bathtub replacement.
Avoid Professional Installation Costs: No need to hire a repair specialist.
Get a Long-Lasting Solution: The high-strength adhesive creates a permanent bond for durable results.
Upgrade Safety: Many inlays, including BATHBONDS, feature a non-slip surface to reduce slips and falls.
What You’ll Need for Bathtub Crack Repair
A high-quality bathtub crack repair kit, like a BATHBONDS inlay kit, which typically includes:
Inlay: A commercial-grade thermoplastic sheet designed to cover the damaged area. BATHBONDS offers a variety of stock sized inlays, but we can also custom design an inlay to fit your specific unit for a sleek & seamless finish.
Adhesive: A powerful adhesive that creates a lasting, chemical bond with the original tub or shower surface. At BATHBONDS, we have a proprietary two-part PERMABOND adhesive that uses a fusion process to ensure your inlay never cracks, peels, or delaminates from the surface.
Instructions and Tools: Most kits come with easy-to-follow directions and any necessary application tools. At BATHBONDS, we offer step-by-step instructions, as well as a Youtube instructional video so you can familiarize yourself with straightforward instructions.
How to Repair Your Cracked Bathtub or Shower Floor at Home
These are the basic steps to complete your DIY bathtub crack repair with a BATHBONDS inlay kit quickly and effectively. Please refer to the step-by-step instructions for detailed information on how to properly prep your unit and install your inlay.
1. Prepare the Surface
Clean the Area: Start by thoroughly cleaning your bathtub or shower floor with a non-abrasive cleaner. Remove any dirt, soap scum, or residue, as these can interfere with the adhesive bond.
Sand Any Refinished Surface: If your tub or shower has been previously refinished or painted, it is essential to remove the coating in order to expose the original gelcoat or material. This ensures the adhesive will bond effectively to the original tub or shower floor. We recommend using a palm sander with 40-grit paper to sand the bottom of your unit.
2. Mix the Adhesive
A BATHBONDS inlay kit includes a unique two-part PERMABOND adhesive. Once mixed, a chemical reaction begins, heating the adhesive to create a powerful, permanent bond. It's important to note that once you begin mixing the adhesive together, you have 15 - 20 minutes to work with it before it permanently cures.
3. Apply the Adhesive to the Inlay and Surface
Spread the adhesive evenly on the prepped out surface of your bathtub or shower floor. Each BATHBONDS inlay kit comes with a spreader to help disperse the adhesive along the bottom of the unit. You want about 1/8" thick layer of adhesive. This is essential to creating a strong, water-tight bond that prevents peeling, cracking, or delamination over time.
4. Place and Secure the Inlay
Carefully position the inlay on your tub or shower floor, aligning it with the prepped out area and ensuring the damaged area is covered. Once in place, press down firmly to bond it to the floor. Use a J-roller to roll the inlay from the center to the edges (as shown in the installation instructions) to create surface to surface contact and remove any air bubbles under the inlay.
5. Let the Adhesive Set
Allow the adhesive to cure for 8 - 12 hours before using your bathtub or shower. This step is vital for a reliable, long-lasting repair.
Benefits of Using a BATHBONDS Inlay Kit for Bathtub Crack Repair
Choosing a BATHBONDS inlay for your bathtub crack repair offers several benefits:
3x the Strength: The inlay bond strengthens the damaged area, making it over three times stronger than the original surface before the inlay installation.
Non-Slip Surface: Safety is essential, and the BATHBONDS inlay features a non-slip texture to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Permanent Fusion: The PERMABOND adhesive chemically fuses the inlay and the tub surface, ensuring a permanent, water-tight repair.
Professional Results in a DIY Kit: BATHBONDS brings commercial-grade quality to homeowners, letting you achieve a professional finish without specialized tools or costly services.
Final Thoughts on DIY Bathtub Crack Repair
Bathtub and shower floor cracks don’t have to mean expensive replacements or professional repairs. With a high-quality DIY inlay kit like BATHBONDS, you can restore your bathroom quickly and affordably, all while strengthening your bathtub or shower floor. Bathtub crack repair has never been easier – so why wait? Tackle those cracks head-on and bring new life to your tub or shower today!
Ready to repair? Order your BATHBONDS inlay kit and enjoy a safe, durable, and cost-effective solution for your bathtub crack repair!