You step into your bathroom for a relaxing soak, only to notice unsightly chips in the tub or stains that won’t budge no matter how much you scrub. Maybe there’s a small crack you’ve ignored for months that now seems to be spreading. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Bathtubs endure daily use, harsh cleaning products, and the occasional dropped shampoo bottle or kid’s toy. Over time, damage is inevitable—but the good news is that many of these issues are completely fixable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common bathtub repairs homeowners face, what causes them, and how to fix them. Whether you’re considering a DIY solution or wondering if it’s time to call in a professional like Bathtub Made New, this post will help you make the right decision.
Why Bathtub Damage Happens
Your tub might look solid, but it’s surprisingly vulnerable to damage over time. Here are the most common culprits behind surface problems and structural issues:
- Daily wear and tear – Constant exposure to water, soap, and body oils takes a toll.
- Harsh cleaners – Abrasive pads and chemical cleaners can eat away at the surface finish.
- Dropped objects – Shampoo bottles, razors, or shower tools can leave behind chips or cracks.
- Age and poor installation – Older tubs or improperly installed units may develop more serious problems like shifting or leaking.
Understanding what causes damage in the first place can help you prevent future issues and catch small problems early before they get worse.
Common Bathtub Repairs Every Homeowner Should Know About
1. Chips and Minor Surface Cracks
Small chips or hairline cracks in your bathtub may seem harmless, but they can lead to moisture penetration, mold growth, and further deterioration. These usually happen from dropping something heavy or from general aging, especially in porcelain or fiberglass tubs.
DIY fix: You can use a tub repair kit to patch small chips. These kits come with filler, sandpaper, and touch-up paint matched to common tub colors.
Professional solution: For a seamless look and long-term durability, refinishing the entire surface is best. This not only repairs the damage but also gives your tub a like-new appearance.
2. Stains and Discoloration
Unsightly stains can develop from hard water, rust, soap scum, and even bacteria. They’re particularly common in older tubs or those with worn enamel.
DIY fix: Baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice can sometimes remove surface stains. Specialized bathtub cleaners also help but may be harsh.
Professional solution: If stains persist or the tub’s finish is compromised, refinishing or resurfacing will restore a bright, clean surface that resists future staining.
3. Deep Cracks or Structural Fractures
Unlike small chips, deep cracks can pose a serious risk. They often occur in fiberglass tubs and can lead to water damage beneath the surface or into surrounding walls and floors.
DIY fix: Epoxy patch kits can temporarily fix some fiberglass cracks, but this is rarely a long-term solution.
Professional solution: Experts will assess whether the tub can be salvaged through reinforcement and refinishing, or if replacement is necessary. In many cases, a professional refinishing company can fix even significant cracks without a full replacement.
4. Peeling or Flaking Finish
If your tub was refinished in the past using low-quality materials or improper prep techniques, you might notice the finish peeling or flaking off. This leaves the underlying material vulnerable to damage and makes your bathroom look neglected.
DIY fix: Unfortunately, peeling finish isn't easily fixed without stripping and refinishing the entire surface.
Professional solution: A proper refinish job includes cleaning, sanding, priming, and sealing with commercial-grade coatings for a flawless and long-lasting finish.
5. Rust Spots Around Drains or Fixtures
Rust typically forms around the drain, overflow, or around fixtures due to constant water exposure and corroded metal parts. These can spread quickly if ignored.
DIY fix: Surface rust may be cleaned with a mixture of baking soda and water, or with commercial rust removers.
Professional solution: When rust has eaten into the surface or is paired with structural issues, it’s best to have the area refinished to fully eliminate the damage and prevent future recurrence.
When to DIY and When to Call a Pro
Some repairs are perfectly manageable for confident DIYers, but others are better left to experts. Here's a quick guide:
DIY is okay when:
- Chips or cracks are smaller than a dime
- Stains are minor and on the surface only
- You have experience using repair kits or cleaning agents
Call Bathtub Made New when:
- You’re dealing with peeling finishes or deep cracks
- Rust is reappearing after multiple cleanings
- The tub looks dull or aged even after cleaning
- You want a smooth, like-new surface that lasts
Professional bathtub refinishing not only ensures the damage is properly handled, but it also extends the lifespan of your tub, improves home value, and avoids costly full replacements.
How Bathtub Made New Can Help
At Bathtub Made New, we specialize in affordable, long-lasting bathtub repairs and refinishing. Our experienced team works with all types of tubs, including fiberglass, acrylic, and cast iron. We use commercial-grade materials and precision techniques to restore your bathtub to a factory-like finish—without the mess or expense of a full remodel.
We also offer accessibility upgrades such as:
- Fold-down seats
- Built-in grab bars
- Tub-to-shower conversions
We proudly serve homeowners across the Rochester area and are known for being friendly, clean, and respectful on every job.
Preventing Future Bathtub Damage
To get the most out of your repaired or refinished bathtub, keep it looking new with these simple maintenance tips:
- Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners
- Avoid metal scrubbers or harsh brushes
- Rinse your tub after each use to prevent soap buildup
- Fix minor chips or scratches as soon as you notice them
- Keep ventilation running during and after baths to reduce humidity
A little routine care goes a long way in preventing future damage and keeping your bathtub in top shape.
Final Thoughts:
Bathtub damage doesn’t always mean it’s time for a costly replacement. In most cases, common bathtub repairs like chips, cracks, stains, or peeling can be resolved quickly and affordably—especially with the help of skilled professionals.
If your tub has seen better days, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Let Bathtub Made New bring it back to life with expert refinishing and repair services tailored to your needs.
Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how easy it is to fall in love with your bathroom all over again.