Advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass bathtubs

When choosing a bathtub, you have many material options. However, if you're looking for a high-quality, simple bathtub on the market, fiberglass is a good choice. Today, Langdi Sanitary Ware will introduce the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass bathtubs . Understanding these advantages and disadvantages will help you ensure that the bathtub you choose is the style and material you need.

I. Advantages of Glass Bathtubs

(1) Economical and affordable

One of the main advantages of fiberglass bathtubs is their reasonable price. Compared to bathtubs made of metal (such as brass, copper, cast iron, and artificial stone), fiberglass is a very economical bathtub material. It is also cheaper than basins made of stone, such as soapstone, granite, marble, and onyx, as well as other durable surface materials. Fiberglass bathtubs are even cheaper than acrylic bathtubs, another type of plastic material that falls at the lower end of the price range, making it often the most affordable bathtub option.

(2) Easy to install

Fiberglass tubs are lightweight, which generally makes installation easier. When dealing with heavier bathtub materials such as cast iron or artificial stone, it can be difficult to transport the tub to the bathroom and handle it properly. Because fiberglass bathtubs are lightweight, you usually don't have to worry about installing extra supports for the tub on the floor, especially in second-floor bathrooms.

(3) Repairable surface

Fiberglass tubs have a soft surface and are prone to scratches and cracks, but they are also repairable, meaning you don't have to replace the entire tub if damage occurs. By sanding the surface and using filler products and an epoxy-based coating, you can smooth the surface of your fiberglass tub, making it look brand new. You can purchase a fiberglass repair kit that includes all the necessary materials, but the process can be time-consuming and difficult. If you are not experienced in this area, Langdi Sanitary Ware recommends hiring a professional fiberglass surface repair company.

II. Disadvantages of Glass Bathtubs

(1) Poor durability

Because fiberglass bathtubs are lightweight, they are thinner than other bathtub materials, which generally makes them less durable. Typically, fiberglass bathtubs have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The soft surface of the tub is also prone to scratches and cracks, and the color may begin to fade over time. Unlike harder materials such as metal or stone, fiberglass tubs are also flexible; moving them carelessly can cause the caulking around the tub to crack. Therefore, bathtubs are usually secured in one location before installation to prevent cracks or dents on the surface from being moved.

(2) Inconsistent surface

Although fiberglass tubs are made by shaping several layers of material into the desired form, the final product still requires a gel coating resin to maintain its shine. Because the gel coating is sprayed onto the tub, the thickness and color of the surface are not always uniform. As a result, the tub may be uneven and have spots in some areas. The color also doesn't completely run through all the layers, which is why fiberglass tubs are prone to fading.