Common Bathtub Repairs and How to Fix Them

A bathtub is an essential part of any bathroom and is often used on a daily basis. However, with frequent use, it is not uncommon for bathtubs to develop issues that require repairs. Some of the most common bathtub problems include clogged drains, leaking faucets, cracked or damaged bathtubs, loose tiles, and mold and mildew growth.

These issues can be inconvenient and, if left unaddressed, can cause further damage to your bathtub and your bathroom. In this guide, we’ll outline some of the most common bathtub repairs and how to fix them, so you can keep your bathtub in top shape and avoid any costly repairs down the road.

Clogged Drain

A clogged drain is a common problem in bathtubs caused by the accumulation of hair, soap, and other debris in the drain. To fix a clogged bathtub drain, you’ll need a drain snake, rubber gloves, a bucket, a screwdriver, and a plunger.

Here are the steps to fix a clogged bathtub drain:

1. Remove the drain stopper or cover it with a screwdriver.
2. Use a drain snake to remove any hair or debris clogging the drain. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to catch any blockages.
3. If the drain snake doesn’t work, try using a plunger. Cover the overflow drain with a wet cloth and create a tight seal around the plunger. Plunge up and down for several minutes until the clog dislodges.
4. Once the clog is removed, run hot water down the drain to flush out any remaining debris.
5. Replace the drain stopper or cover and test the drain to ensure it’s working properly.

To prevent clogged drains, use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris before they enter the drain. Clean the drain regularly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup. Avoid pouring grease, oil, and large debris down the drain.

Leaking Faucet

Another frequent problem with bathtubs is a leaking faucet that is brought on by worn-out washers, O-rings, or valves. You’ll need an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, and replacement washers, O-rings, or valves to fix a leaking bathtub faucet.

Here are the steps to fix a leaking bathtub faucet:

1. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This can usually be done by shutting off the water valves under the sink or by turning off the main water supply to the house.
2. Remove the faucet handle with a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench.
3. Remove the stem assembly by unscrewing it with an adjustable wrench.
4. Inspect the washers, O-rings, or valves for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.
5. Reassemble the faucet, making sure to tighten all screws and connections securely.
6. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to ensure it’s no longer leaking.

Regularly inspect and replace worn-out washers, O-rings, or valves to avoid leaks. Moreover, to prevent damage to the internal parts, don’t use too much effort to shut off the faucet.

Cracked or Damaged Bathtub

Leaks, water damage, and the formation of mold can all result from a cracked or damaged bathtub. Sandpaper, a fiberglass repair kit, epoxy putty, a putty knife, and safety goggles are required to repair a broken bathtub.

Here are the steps to fix a cracked or damaged bathtub:

1. Clean the damaged area with soap and water and dry it thoroughly.
2. Sand the area around the crack with sandpaper to create a rough surface that the repair material can adhere to.
3. Mix the epoxy putty according to the instructions on the package.
4. Apply the epoxy putty to the crack with a putty knife, making sure to cover the entire damaged area.
5. Allow the epoxy putty to dry completely.
6. Apply a layer of fiberglass repair kit over the dried epoxy putty, using the putty knife to smooth it out and ensure it covers the entire area.
7. Allow the fiberglass repair kit to dry completely.
8. Sand the repaired area with sandpaper until it’s smooth and even with the surrounding surface.
9. Clean the area with soap and water and dry it thoroughly.

Loose Tiles

If you have loose tiles in your bathtub, it’s important to fix them promptly to prevent further damage. You’ll need a grout saw, hammer, chisel, tile adhesive, tile grout, grout float, sponge, and towel to complete this repair.

Here are the steps to fix loose tiles in your bathtub:

1. Use a grout saw to remove the grout around the loose tiles to loosen them.
2. Gently remove the loosened tiles from the wall or floor with a hammer and chisel.
3. Clean the area thoroughly and let it dry completely.
4. Apply tile adhesive to the back of the tiles and press them firmly into place on the wall or floor.
5. Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
6. Apply tile grout to the gaps between the tiles using a grout float.
7. Smooth out the grout and remove any excess with a damp sponge.
8. Let the grout dry completely.
9. Wipe down the tiles with a damp towel to remove any remaining grout haze.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are common problems in bathtubs due to constant exposure to moisture. To remove mold and mildew from your bathtub, you’ll need gloves, a mask, a spray bottle, distilled white vinegar, baking soda, a scrub brush, a sponge, and a towel.

Here are the steps to remove mold and mildew from your bathtub:

1. Put on gloves and a mask to protect yourself from mold and mildew.
2. Fill a spray bottle with distilled white vinegar.
3. Spray the affected area with the vinegar and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
4. Sprinkle baking soda over the vinegar and let it sit for another 15 minutes.
5. Use a scrub brush to scrub the area thoroughly, then rinse with water.
6. Use a sponge to wipe down the area and remove any remaining residue.
7. Dry the area with a towel.

Big Easy Bathtubs: Your Solution to Bathtub Repairs and Refinishing Needs

The bathtub is an important fixture in any home, and proper maintenance is essential to ensure it remains functional and safe. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can address some of the most common bathtub repairs in New Orleans. However, if you encounter a more complicated problem or are unsure about the repair process, it’s best to consult a professional.

At Big Easy Bathtubs, we understand the importance of a well-maintained bathtub and provide a range of bathtub repair and refinishing services to help restore your bathtub to its original condition. Our team of experts is dedicated to delivering high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service to ensure your complete satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.