Why do we not offer a warranty on fiberglass repairs?

Why Fiberglass Tub Repairs Cannot Be Fully Guaranteed

Fiberglass tubs and showers are constructed from layers of fiberglass mat reinforced with resin, often backed by a gelcoat finish for appearance and water resistance. While this makes them lightweight, affordable, and initially durable, the material has inherent limitations that affect long-term repair reliability, especially when the structure has been compromised (e.g., cracks, flexing, holes, or delamination).

Key Reasons Repairs Are Not Fully Guaranteed:

1. Flexibility of the Material
Fiberglass is designed to flex slightly under weight or pressure. In a damaged area, even a well-executed repair may eventually crack or separate because the tub continues to flex during normal use (stepping in/out, temperature changes, etc.). Rigid repair materials (like epoxy or polyester resin) do not flex the same way as the original fiberglass, creating stress points.

2. Underlying Structural Compromise
Visible damage is often a symptom of deeper issues:

• Cracks or holes usually indicate the supporting structure (floor joists, subfloor, or backing) has weakened or shifted.

• Delamination (separation of layers) means the tub has lost integrity.
Repairing only the surface does not address these root causes, so the damage can reappear.

3. Adhesion Challenges
Fiberglass repairs rely on strong bonding between old and new materials. Factors like contamination, moisture trapped in layers, or improper surface preparation can weaken adhesion over time, leading to peeling, bubbling, or cracking.

4. Thermal Expansion and Contraction
Fiberglass expands and contracts with temperature changes (hot showers vs. cold bathroom). Repairs using different resins or fillers may expand/contract at different rates, causing failure.

5. Age and Overall Condition
Older tubs (10+ years) often have widespread micro-cracking or thinning of the gelcoat. A localized repair may hold temporarily, but the surrounding weakened material is prone to new damage.

What This Means for Customers:

While professional resurfacing or repair can significantly improve appearance and extend the tub’s usable life (often 5–10 years with proper care), it is not equivalent to replacing the tub. Reputable companies avoid full guarantees on fiberglass structural repairs because they cannot control ongoing flexing, underlying support issues, or future wear.

Many offer limited warranties (e.g., 1–5 years on workmanship and materials) that cover defects in the repair itself but exclude failures due to continued flexing or pre-existing structural problems.

In summary, fiberglass tub repairs are often a cost-effective alternative to replacement, but the material’s inherent flexibility and potential for hidden damage prevent absolute long-term guarantees.