Introduction

Frank, a bathtub surface repair professional, faces a common dilemma in the world of non-metal bathtub installations: a combination tub and shower made from gelcoat reinforced with FRP that squeaks and flexes under weight. This issue, while annoying, can lead to more serious problems such as fatigue and cracking of the bath bottom if left unaddressed. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to rectify this problem, enhancing both the usability and longevity of the bathtub.

Understanding the Problem

Bathtubs and showers constructed from materials like acrylic and gelcoat, and reinforced with fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), require additional structural support to prevent flexing and noise. This support often comes in the form of wooden boards or high-density foam blocks. However, if these supporting features are inadequately installed or the gap between the tub bottom and the sub-floor is too large, flexing, squeaking, and even cracking can occur.

The Solution

The key to solving this issue lies in providing adequate support between the bathtub’s bottom and the sub-floor. This can be achieved by injecting structural polyurethane foam into the space or cavities between them. This approach not only eliminates the noise and flexing but also prevents potential cracking, making the bathtub more stable and safer to use.

Procedure Overview

1. Assessment: Determine the extent of the gap between the tub bottom and the sub-floor. This will help in choosing the right type of foam (2 lbs/cuft for larger gaps, 5 lbs/cuft for smaller gaps) and the amount needed for the job.
2. Preparation: Drill holes through the tub’s bottom or side (if accessible) to inject the foam. A 1/4″ diameter hole is generally sufficient.
3. Injection: Use a polyurethane foam kit to inject the foam into the void space. Multiple injection points may be necessary depending on the size of the gap.
4. Finishing: After the foam has expanded and cured, fill the injection holes with a suitable repair paste or putty. Finish the repair by matching the color and surface texture of the tub or applying a non-skid coating over the repaired area for added safety and aesthetics.

Why It Works

Injecting structural polyurethane foam provides a solid, supportive base that reduces the flexing of the bathtub or shower bottom. This process effectively distributes the weight and stress evenly across the surface, preventing the materials from moving and squeaking. Additionally, by addressing the root cause of the flexing, this method offers a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.

Considerations

• Use caution to avoid over-injecting foam, as excessive expansion can distort the bathtub bottom.
• Ensure that the foam or resin used is compatible with the bathtub materials to prevent chemical damage.
• For bathtubs with existing cracks, consider a more comprehensive repair approach that may include reinforcing the cracked area before injecting foam.

Conclusion

For repair professionals like Frank, addressing squeaky and flexing bathtubs and showers offers a valuable service to homeowners, extending the life of their installations and improving their daily use. By following the proper procedures and utilizing the right materials, such as those provided by Multi-Tech Products, contractors can effectively solve this common problem, ensuring customer satisfaction and potentially expanding their business offerings.

For more detailed instructions and to explore a wide range of repair products, visit Multi-Tech Products’ procedures (link to Procedures section) or contact (link to Contact page) their customer service for assistance.