Fiberglass sinks are known for their durability, but over time they can become cracked or fractured. Fortunately, fiberglass is an easy material to work with and often can be repaired to its original strength, regardless of the type of failure. Fiberglass filler is commonly used to fill small cracks in fiberglass sinks.
Preparing the Sink for Repair
Before you begin the repair process, it’s important to thoroughly clean the sink and remove any debris or loose material. Use a degreaser to remove any oil or grease, and then sand the area around the crack or fracture with 80-grit sandpaper. This will help the repair material adhere to the surface.
Applying the Fiberglass Resin
Once the sink is clean and sanded, mix the fiberglass resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to use the correct ratio of resin to hardener to ensure a proper cure. Apply the resin to the crack or fracture using a putty knife or other tool, making sure to fill the entire area. If necessary, apply additional layers of resin until the crack is completely filled.
Reinforcing the Repair
For added strength and durability, you can reinforce the repair with fiberglass cloth or mat. Cut a piece of cloth or mat slightly larger than the repair area and press it into the resin. Apply additional resin over the cloth or mat to fully saturate it. Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding.
Sanding and Finishing
Once the resin has cured, sand the area with progressively finer grits of sandpaper, starting with 80-grit and moving up to 180-grit and 360-grit. This will smooth out the surface and prepare it for painting or refinishing. If desired, you can apply a gel coat or paint to match the original finish of the sink.