Common Bathtub Problems and How to Fix Them

April 13, 2025

Your bathtub plays a central role in your daily routine, whether it’s a quick shower before work or a long soak to unwind. But like any other fixture in your home, bathtubs can experience wear and tear over time. At Bathtub Refinishing London, we’ve helped countless homeowners in London, Ontario restore their tubs and extend their lifespan. In this post, we’ll break down the most common bathtub problems—and what you can do to fix them.



1. Cracks and Chips

The Problem:
Small cracks or chips in your bathtub’s surface aren’t just cosmetic—they can lead to water seeping into the structure, which may cause mold, mildew, or even structural damage.



The Fix:
For minor chips, you can use a tub repair kit from your local hardware store. However, if the damage is larger or in multiple places, professional repair and refinishing is the better route. We specialize in seamless crack repair that blends perfectly with your existing tub finish.



2. Stains and Discoloration

The Problem:
Over time, hard water, soap scum, and rust can leave unsightly stains on your bathtub. These can make even a clean bathroom look dirty and dated.


The Fix:
Try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or a non-abrasive cleaner. For stubborn stains, refinishing is often the most effective solution—it restores your tub to a like-new condition with a fresh, clean surface.



3. Peeling or Flaking Finish

The Problem:
If your bathtub has been refinished in the past and the coating is peeling, this could be due to poor surface preparation or substandard materials.


The Fix:
Peeling finishes usually require complete resurfacing. At
Bathtub Refinishing London, we use high-quality materials and meticulous prep work to ensure the new coating adheres properly and lasts for years.



4. Rust Spots

The Problem:
Rust usually starts around drains or chips where the protective finish has worn away, exposing the metal underneath.


The Fix:
Small rust spots can be sanded and treated with a rust inhibitor, followed by a patching compound. For extensive rust damage, professional refinishing will both remove the rust and reseal the tub surface to prevent future corrosion.



5. Slippery Surfaces

The Problem:
A slippery bathtub isn’t just annoying—it’s a safety hazard, especially for seniors or children.


The Fix:
Non-slip decals or mats are a quick fix, but over time they can harbor bacteria or peel up. We offer non-slip surface treatments as part of our refinishing services, giving you a safe and permanent solution.



Trust Local: Why Choose Bathtub Refinishing London

We’re proud to serve homeowners across London, Ontario with top-tier bathtub repair and refinishing services. Whether your tub has seen better days or you're simply looking to refresh your bathroom, our team is here to help—affordably, efficiently, and professionally.

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A bathtub is a key part of any bathroom—not just for its function, but also for the comfort and style it brings to your space. But over time, even the highest-quality tubs can begin to show signs of wear and tear. At Bathtub Refinishing London , we specialize in restoring bathtubs to like-new condition for homeowners and property managers across London, Ontario . Here are the top signs your bathtub may need repair —and why it's better to address them sooner than later. 1. Cracks or Chips in the Surface If you notice small cracks or chips on the surface of your bathtub, they may seem minor at first. However, they can allow water to seep in, leading to mold, structural damage, and costly repairs down the road. These surface flaws also make your tub harder to clean and less hygienic. Solution: A professional repair or reglazing can seal cracks and restore a smooth, durable finish. 2. Staining or Discoloration That Won’t Come Off No matter how much scrubbing you do, some stains just won’t budge. Rust, hard water deposits, and years of use can leave your tub looking dirty or yellowed—even if it's technically clean. Solution: Bathtub refinishing removes stubborn stains and applies a fresh coating, making your tub look new again. 3. Peeling or Flaking Coating If your bathtub has been previously refinished and the coating is now peeling or flaking, it's a clear sign that the surface needs attention. This is not just an eyesore—it can also expose the material underneath to damage. Solution: A professional resurfacing can strip off the damaged finish and apply a new, long-lasting layer. 4. Dull or Worn-Out Appearance A bathtub doesn’t have to be cracked or chipped to need repair. If the shine is gone and your tub looks tired, that’s often a sign that the protective surface has worn down. Solution: Refinishing restores the glossy look and feel of a brand-new tub at a fraction of the cost of replacement. 5. Leaking Around the Tub or Fixtures If you’re seeing water pooling around the base of the tub or near the fixtures, there may be damage you're not seeing. A compromised surface or old caulking can cause leaks that lead to water damage behind the walls. Solution: Identifying the source and repairing the surface is key to preventing hidden damage and expensive fixes. 6. You’re Planning a Bathroom Update Even if your tub is in decent shape, it might not match your updated tiles, paint, or fixtures. If you're giving your bathroom a refresh, a bathtub refinishing service can bring the whole space together without tearing out your old tub. Solution: Refinishing allows you to update the colour and style of your tub to suit your new aesthetic—quickly and affordably. Bathtub Repair and Refinishing in London, Ontario At Bathtub Refinishing London , we help homeowners and property managers extend the life of their bathtubs and enhance their bathrooms without the hassle of full replacements. Whether your tub is chipped, stained, or just outdated, our team can restore it with professional care and quality craftsmanship. Need a Tub Repair? Let’s Talk. If your bathtub is showing any of these signs, don’t wait. Contact Bathtub Refinishing London today for a free quote and find out how affordable and effective bathtub repair can be.
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