Q: Will a chipped bath leak?

• <div><p>A chipped bathtub could leak over time if you don&rsquo;t take care of the issue. A tiny chip isn&rsquo;t a big deal but may eventually grow into a larger crack. As the months go by, the tub&rsquo;s barrier against moisture becomes weakened, making it prone to leaking. Large chips can also cause the tub to rust and even crack in half.</p></div>

Q: Should I replace or refinish my bathtub?

• <div><p>You can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/should-you-refinish-or-replace-your-bathtub.htm">resurface or reglaze your bathtub</a>, and it&rsquo;s faster and less expensive than replacing a bathtub. Plus, replacing a bathtub is an extensive and intrusive process that requires wall repairs. Refinishing is an excellent option if the old one is in good working condition.</p><p>There are also options to install a bathtub liner over your existing tub. However, if you&rsquo;re seeking a new bathtub with new features, you&rsquo;ll likely want to replace your tub.</p></div>

Question 1

Will a chipped bath leak?

Accepted Answer

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A chipped bathtub could leak over time if you don’t take care of the issue. A tiny chip isn’t a big deal but may eventually grow into a larger crack. As the months go by, the tub’s barrier against moisture becomes weakened, making it prone to leaking. Large chips can also cause the tub to rust and even crack in half.

Question 2

How do I know if my tub is fiberglass or acrylic?

Accepted Answer

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There are a few ways to check whether your tub is fiberglass or acrylic. If your tub is a color other than white, then your tub is likely acrylic (as fiberglass tubs are usually white). Check to see if there is discoloration on the bottom of the tub, because if it’s yellowed, then you can be fairly sure it’s fiberglass.

Also, fiberglass tubs have thinner edges and are cool to the touch. Acrylic, on the other hand, is either room temperature or warm to the touch.

Question 3

Should I replace or refinish my bathtub?

Accepted Answer

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You can resurface or reglaze your bathtub, and it’s faster and less expensive than replacing a bathtub. Plus, replacing a bathtub is an extensive and intrusive process that requires wall repairs. Refinishing is an excellent option if the old one is in good working condition.

There are also options to install a bathtub liner over your existing tub. However, if you’re seeking a new bathtub with new features, you’ll likely want to replace your tub.

Question 4

Is rust in the bathtub harmful?

Accepted Answer

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Rust in your bathtub occurs when iron in the water or on metal components in your tub are exposed to oxygen, but while it’s unsightly, it won’t make bathing dangerous. However, if the rust appears under or around your tub spout or shower head, it could indicate that you have high levels of iron in your water. Drinking water with small amounts of iron in it usually doesn’t pose a health risk, but you might want to consider installing a water softener. The presence of iron could indicate that you have hard water, which can create some plumbing issues.

Question 5

How long does it take to reglaze a tub?

Accepted Answer

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Refinishing a bathtub takes about two to four hours, but let the surface set for another 24 to 48 hours before using it again. Once it's set, your tub should last for 10 years or more. Ventilating the bathroom during this time is key for safety. In comparison, it takes about four hours to install a new bathtub.