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I have a newly installed tub and unfortunately it has a crack down the outer edge or front lip about 1 to 2 inches and it also goes all the way to the edge.

I am afraid of it running and getting bigger, and I am not sure the material if it is acrylic, polyester or fibreglass if that matters?

I am wondering should I replace entire tub or patch it up? Thanks for any advice or knowledge.

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  • I have heard that drilling a hole at the end of a crack stops it. I have no idea if that is true or not. So I am happy if somebody shoots this comment down in flames...
    – Oldfart
    Mar 8, 2020 at 14:06
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    @Oldfart it’s true - as ling as you go to the end of the crack - and that “end” may well be further along than you would think. But it is down to relieving stresses and Von Mises stress theory.
    – Solar Mike
    Mar 8, 2020 at 16:11
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    It is a new construction so even bathroom is new and I initially requested a replacement however sales for contractor wanted me to patch. But now my understanding is that the underlying issue can be if tub isn't properly bedded putting strain/flex forces worsening current situation or creating others especially on new install before any use. I will stay firm with a replacement request. @all here, thanks for the information.
    – h1vpd
    Mar 8, 2020 at 17:42

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If you try to repair that crack then the complete length needs supporting as it is flexing too much.

I had one where we noticed the flex early and I fitted a beam with supports underneath - made access a bit more difficult but still ok.

Seen one where the next crack developed a short distance down from the repair so think carefully about the real cause as well.

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  • I agree it looks like the tub was not bedded correctly a common diy problem the tub needs to be bedded so it won’t flex then a patch on the outside will probably be fine.
    – Ed Beal
    Mar 8, 2020 at 7:57
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If you just had it replaced then that means that your contractor should fix this issue.

Regarding fix vs replace: I suggest trying to work that out with your contractor. If the decision is to attempt a repair I would be sure to get IN WRITING that they are guarantying the repair of the tub. You paid your good money to have your new bathroom and you deserve to have it done correctly. The crack is there because something wasn't done correctly. That's on your contractor.

A fix is cheaper. Your contractor will push HARD for that solution. You are not obligated to accept that solution. A fix can be a solution, assuming it works over time, and looks good (and not cheap). It will only work over time if the source of the crack is addressed.

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  • for longer term usage would a fix be worth it? Or is this bad enough that I should ask for a replacement?
    – h1vpd
    Mar 8, 2020 at 5:52
  • It's hard for me to answer without knowing more information that I can get here. I suggest trying to work that out with your contractor. If the decision is to attempt a repair I would be sure to get IN WRITING that they are guarantying the repair of the tub. You paid your good money to have your new bathroom and you desire to have it done correctly. The crack is there because something wasn't done correctly. That's on your contractor.
    – Ack
    Mar 8, 2020 at 6:03
  • I would ask IF the op did the install or it was done by a pro, this is a very common diy mistake. Bedding the tub and patching may work and will be much cheaper than a new tub.
    – Ed Beal
    Mar 8, 2020 at 8:01
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    Hi; would you integrate the info in your comments into your actual answer? Thanks.
    – Daniel Griscom
    Mar 8, 2020 at 12:08
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    The contractor should replace the tub, properly. I happen to have a very nice tub with a crack I think I can repair - got it for $50 from the contractor who replaced it after a tile subcontractor cracked it.
    – Ecnerwal
    Mar 8, 2020 at 13:34

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