Is it worth repairing the bathtub?

With the continuous improvement of people's living standards, many families have installed bathtubs. However, after using a bathtub for a period of time, it is inevitable that it will suffer damage. So, are there any ways to repair it? Of course, there are. Whether or not to repair it depends on the type of bathtub installed in your home and the cost. We all know that bathtubs come in expensive and inexpensive options, and the specific price depends on the bathtub's material, size, and type. If you need to repair your bathtub, you can consider the following factors before making a decision.

I. Understanding Bathtub Damage and Repair Principles

When a ceramic, enamel, or fiberglass bathtub is cracked, severely scratched, or broken, bathtub repair (also known as surface restoration or refurbishment) is an effective option. The method involves first repairing any cracks or holes with polyester putty, followed by a spray or roller coat consisting of epoxy, polyurethane, or a blend of polyesters (polyurethane blends or polymers). Repairs can be done through professional installation or using a DIY kit. 

II. Bathtub Repair Options

(1) Repair again

Bathtub repair essentially involves painting the bathtub, and of course, high-quality, professional paint should be chosen. Your bathtub can be repainted. The limitation of a second repair is that the base coat of the repair material isn't the optimal surface for adhesion to the new coat. For a successful repair, the surface needs more careful preparation through thorough cleaning and etching, and all peeling and scratches must be fixed before applying the second coat. If the first repair doesn't meet your expectations, you should hire a professional bathtub repair company. After their work, be sure to check that the bathtub is properly repaired to avoid any incomplete repairs. Otherwise, you'll have to repeat the repairs yourself, and the results won't be as good as a professional repair.

(2) Install the bathtub liner

This might be a better option than repairs. If you don't achieve the desired effect by repairing it yourself, you can choose to install a bathtub liner. Bathtub liners are basically made of acrylic resin or PVC plastic. Although home improvement centers have spare bathtubs, theoretically you could install it yourself. While this isn't the best installation method, be careful not to squeeze it too hard during installation, as this could cause the liner to bend and crack. They are also difficult to seal perfectly with the drain valve and bathtub valve openings.

III. Recommendations

A better liner solution is to have a specialized company do this kind of work, take accurate measurements, and make a sleeve that fits the size and contours of the bathtub and the surrounding area perfectly. This can be a very successful remedy, although it is not as perfect as installing a brand new bathtub.

Making a perfectly fitting tubing is cheaper than installing a new bathtub. No bathtub lasts forever; repairs may extend its lifespan by 3-4 years, the tub liner can function normally for 5-7 years, and eventually your bathtub will need to be replaced. In fact, when you first go to get your bathtub repaired, you should be ruthless and just replace it, rather than facing the hassle and repair costs for a limited period of time.