Q: Can you put a tub liner over a cracked tub?

• <div><p>We don&rsquo;t recommend using a tub liner to cover up cracks in a bathtub. Instead, you should repair the cracks yourself if you have the experience or hire a pro. Cracks may seem like small surface imperfections, but they can lead to much larger issues, so repair them as soon as you can. </p></div>

Q: How do you prepare a shower before caulking?

• <div><p>Before you begin caulking a shower, you&rsquo;ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-mold-mistakes-avoid.htm">get rid of the mold</a>, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter&rsquo;s tape&mdash;one above the joint where you&rsquo;re caulking and another below it.</p></div>

Q: Will ammonia damage an acrylic tub?

• <div><p>Ammonia is a powerful household cleaner, but don&rsquo;t use it for your acrylic tub. Ammonia or cleaners containing this ingredient can break down the surface of the acrylic bathtub and leave it with permanent damage. Instead, try a gentler store-bought acrylic tub cleaner, or a homemade baking soda cleaner.</p></div>

Question 1

Can you put a tub liner over a cracked tub?

Accepted Answer

•

We don’t recommend using a tub liner to cover up cracks in a bathtub. Instead, you should repair the cracks yourself if you have the experience or hire a pro. Cracks may seem like small surface imperfections, but they can lead to much larger issues, so repair them as soon as you can.

Question 2

How do you prepare a shower before caulking?

Accepted Answer

•

Before you begin caulking a shower, you’ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to get rid of the mold, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter’s tape—one above the joint where you’re caulking and another below it.

Question 3

What causes holes in a bathtub?

Accepted Answer

•

While tubs are fairly sturdy, you may notice cracks or holes. This kind of damage can happen from someone accidentally dropping something heavy into the tub. You might also see damage if you drop something heavy into the tub over and over again (like your extra large bottle of body wash). While you might only notice a small dent at first, this can later turn into a crack or a hole.

Also, certain cleaners that are harmful to your tub can cause damage. And if you have a fiberglass tub, you might see cracks if it was not installed properly with the right support.

Question 4

What maintenance is required after surfaces are resurfaced or refaced?

Accepted Answer

•

Routine cleaning with light detergents, avoiding abrasives, and timely addressing chips prolong the new surface appearance.

Question 5

Will ammonia damage an acrylic tub?

Accepted Answer

•

Ammonia is a powerful household cleaner, but don’t use it for your acrylic tub. Ammonia or cleaners containing this ingredient can break down the surface of the acrylic bathtub and leave it with permanent damage. Instead, try a gentler store-bought acrylic tub cleaner, or a homemade baking soda cleaner.