how to fix hairline crack in fiberglass tub

How to Fix Spider Cracks in Fiberglass

by Alex Smith

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Spider cracks are a form of fiberglass damage that occurs from minor flexing or impacts. They can occur in any form of fiberglass, including cars, boats and swimming pools. Small cracks form in the outer surface of the fiberglass, spreading out from a central point like a spiderweb. These cracks do not affect the structural integrity of the fiberglass, but are an aesthetic issue. Fortunately, spider cracks are not difficult to repair.

Step 1

Clean the area with acetone and a rag to remove any dirt or other impurities.

Step 2

Sand the damaged area with 100-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface. You can sand by hand or with an electric sander.

Step 3

Wash the area with acetone a second time to remove all sanding dust.

Step 4

Mask off the area around the cracks with masking tape and plaster to protect against drips.

Step 5

Pull all of the loose bristles out of a cheap paint brush. Loose bristles may become embedded in the gelcoat.

Step 6

Measure a small amount of gelcoat, which is a thick form of fiberglass resin, into a paper bucket. If the fiberglass will be exposed to water, the gelcoat should be marine grade.

Step 7

Mix catalyst into the gelcoat following the instructions on the container. Precision is important: if you add too much catalyst the gelcoat will cure faster than it can be used, but if you add too little it won't cure at all.

Step 8

Brush a thin layer of gelcoat onto the sanded area, feathering it out a bit onto the surrounding fiberglass surface.

Step 9

Allow the gelcoat to sit for three hours, then spray it lightly with Polyvinal Alcohol to help it fully cure.

Step 10

Allow the gelcoat to cure for 24 hours.

Step 11

Wash the Polyvinal Alcohol off with soapy water.

Step 12

Sand the area with 300-grit sandpaper to begin smoothing it. Re-sand it with 600-grit, then 900-grit and so on. Keep jumping 300 grit at a time until the repeated sanding has produced as smooth of a finish as you require.

Step 13

Clean off the sanding dust with acetone.

Prime and paint the fiberglass to match the surrounding surface if needed.

References

Things You'll Need

Acetone
Rag
Sandpaper
Electric sander (optional)
Masking tape
Plastic sheeting
Paintbrush
Gelcoat
Paper bucket
Catalyst
Mixing stick
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Spray gun
Soapy water and sponge
Primer and paint (optional)

Warnings

Wear rubber gloves when working with gelcoat.
Work in a well-ventilated area.

Writer Bio

Alex Smith began writing in 2006 and brings a combination of education and humor to various websites. He holds a Master of Arts in theater and works as a professional makeup and special-effects artist.