TOPIC: What to do with a cracked bathtub?

Hey Guys,

In the place I'm living, we have an additional bathroom that we want to start using, but noticed that the bathtub has a 2 1/2" crack in floor of the tub. It's below the slope of the side, so it is truly in the floor of the tub, and when pressed, about 1 1/2" is through the tub body. It is a standard 5' fiberglass tub (not full shell, just the tub) surrounded by a separate surround. Is there a way to fix this type of damage, or must the tub itself be replaced? I have included photos of the damage, though they may be a little bit grainy. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hey Dan,
Now-a-days, there's ways to fix just about anything. The question is: should you? Price vs effectivness vs replace. Personally, I would look at it as the perfect time to remodel/replace that old tub. Could be the perfect Christmas present for the wifey!

Sadly it's the wifey's mothers who owns the place, and we're having to use this tub, as the shower surround and fixtures in the master bath were incorrectly installed/sealed and all the studs and backer are rotten. So am trying to have it so we have one place to shower while the other is out of commission. I guess in the short term heavy duct taping would do the trick while I fix one tub, then can address the other. Sigh...

Jeff's right...there are companies out there that will repair the tub, but is a fiberglass tub really worth repairing vs. replacing?  Do your research, check prices...you might be surprised that a new set up is equal or less expensive.

FYI; I do a lot of bath remodels...we use a lot of Sterling tubs and surrounds...

Auto body repair! :-0

Use the tub, and it will end up like your shower!

I'm working on John Rich's leaking swimming pool.
I'd be happy to do the same at your place!

They can be repaired but it is only a slightly longer term stop gap.  Just like any crack, it will continue unless relieved.  Be prepared for moisture damage underneath.  Replacement will be less expensive now than later.