How to proceed correctly to repair a damaged shower tray. Possible causes of the cracks. The products and the technique to be used for resin, ceramic and acrylic models. Maintenance guides and advice for choosing a shower.
Do-it-yourself repairing a shower tray is possible using the kits on the market.
You can arrange to fix the surface which remained damaged or yes it is cracked over time.
Once the repair is finished, it will be enough to have the patience to let it dry and then you can go back to reusing the precious shower in the bathroom at home.
Causes of cracks in a shower tray
The shower tray can register cracks throughout his life generally for these reasons:
- incorrect installation and consequent sinking of the shower tray into the concrete;
- settlement of the structure that contains the plate itself;
- geographical area subject to earthquakes;
- accidental fall of a very heavy object.
Repairing the crack is important because in this way it is ensured that the water does not filter on the floor, irreparably damaging the part underneath the plate.
Read also: Cracks in the exterior walls: what to do
This will involve much more expensive interventions, such as the complete removal of the shower tray and annexed replacement, as well as possible infiltrations in the floor which could damage the apartment below.
Repair resin shower tray
First, equip yourself with the following items that are useful for the repair.
Repair materials
- fiberglass
- piece of sandpaper
- acetone
- waterproof paint and the same color as the shower tray
Do it yourself procedure
- First clean the shower tray thoroughly, applying a product such as acetone that can remove any dirt particles;
- Let it dry perfectly;
- Sand the damaged part of the shower tray with sandpaper until it becomes porous, which will allow the fiberglass to act in the best possible way;
- Clean the part on which you worked with a dry cloth, removing all traces;
- Plug the drain so that the fiberglass cannot enter the pipes;
- Apply the fiberglass, using a brush that is large enough, over the entire damaged surface;
- Wait for it to dry perfectly;
- Proceed to painting the repaired part;
- Let it dry again before giving a second pass;
- Before returning to use the shower, allow at least 48 hours to elapse to avoid any kind of problem.
Repair materials
A’alternative to this first methodology instead consists in the use of others repair materials, more precisely:
- gelcoat, specific product for resins
- catalyst, hardening product that can be purchased in hardware stores and large DIY stores
- acetone
- waterproof paint and in the same color as the shower tray
Procedure with the repair kit
- Thoroughly clean the shower tray in the area where we will have to intervene using acetone;
- Wait for it to dry perfectly;
- Mix the gelcoat bottle with the catalyst, to be used in the measure of 2%, or 2 parts of catalyst in 100 of total solution;
- Apply the solution with a brush on the part to be repaired or, if the damage is very extensive, operate on the entire shower tray;
- Wait about 3/4 hours, time necessary for drying;
- If you want to paint it, allow 24 hours after it is completely dry before painting it;
- Allow at least 48 hours to pass before using the shower cubicle, so that the person’s weight does not lead to further breakage.
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Repairing ceramic and acrylic shower tray: procedure
On the market, to operate on surfaces in ceramic such as washbasins, sanitary ware, tubs and shower trays, exist repair kit which include everything you need for the best possible repair.
Method
- Purchase the specific kit on the market; these kits provide for the different shades of white existing;
- Clean the surface you are working on;
- Open the package and combine the mastic with the hardener in the proportions indicated in the instructions;
- Proceed to lay the product with a small spatula;
- Leave to dry for 30 minutes;
- Finish and level the affected part with a small piece of sandpaper;
- Create a hole on a sheet of paper that has the same dimensions as the surface to be repaired;
- While holding the sheet raised about 2 cm from the shower tray, pass the paint, included in the kit, twice, from left to right and then from bottom to top;
- Let it dry and the shower tray will be as good as new.
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How to keep your shower in perfect condition: tips
Keep the shower in perfect condition it is an important condition, so that it can last as long as possible and always efficiently.
To learn about the natural remedies on how to keep your corner always bright, we recommend that you read the article: How to clean the shower.
If, on the other hand, you are struggling with the home bathroom renovation and you need advice, here are some interesting guides that will be right for you:
