If you have a hole in your metal bathtub, don’t worry – it can be repaired fairly easily with the right materials and techniques. The process depends on the size of the hole, but with a little elbow grease, you can have your tub looking good as new in no time. Here’s how to fix a hole in a steel tub:
Preparing the Work Area
Before you start, remove any hardware like faucets, taps, drains, and grills near the area that needs repair. Lay down a canvas drop cloth to protect your floors from metal shavings and epoxy.
Preparing the Tub Surface
Sand the area around the hole with coarse sandpaper to remove rust, paint, water deposits, soap, and dirt. Make sure to clear at least a 1-inch border around the opening. Use a putty knife to chip away stubborn rust if necessary. Wear a respirator certified by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health to protect yourself from airborne metal and rust shavings.
Repairing Small Holes
For holes no larger than a dime, use a steel-reinforced, two-part epoxy repair product. Mix the epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually in a 1:1 ratio with the hardener. Apply the epoxy in even layers over the hole until it’s filled. The epoxy sets in 4-6 hours at room temperature and requires 15-24 hours to fully cure.
Repairing Larger Holes
For holes larger than a dime, you’ll need to use epoxy putty. Cut a piece of putty large enough to cover the hole and knead it until the hardener is activated and the putty turns a uniform color. Shape the putty so that it’s larger than the hole. Place the putty over the hole and press it in place once the area is smooth, dry, and free from dust particles. Follow the instructions to ensure the putty is properly applied and given the appropriate amount of time to set and cure.
Finishing Touches
Once the epoxy or putty is cured, test the repair by refilling the tub with water and checking for leaks. If it’s successful, wait until the surface is completely dry, then sand the area to make the repair less visible. Start with a lower-grit sandpaper to level the epoxy or putty to the tub, then follow with increasingly higher-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish.