Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - New fiberglass shower catastrophe!!

Just took my second shower in my newly installed Lasco Shower (http://lascobathware.com/browse.pl?line=2&model=1603-SG&backto=tubs.shtml&series=13) and discovered CRACKS!!!! Two places where there are starburst cracks! The walls are soft here so the cracks are deep! I am heartbroken! What is the best repair solution for this? I bought this over 7 months ago and it sat in my garage. I am 99+% sure I didn't do these, but it is installed, glued, etc so if at all possible I would rather repair this. Should I use epoxy/fiberglass resin from the back? Same from front? Something has to be done as these cracks are full thickness and soft, and I am sure, leaking/absorbing water. Please give me your best suggestions, from home repair to calling a pro. Thanks, Bob

BobMachus,

I was involved with Property Management as a Mainteneance Supervisor for over 10 years. During this time, I worked at several complex's that had 1 pc. tub/shower fiberglass units. For the money I would consider calling a good fiberglass repair company to come and resolve your issues without tub removal. These guys are fast and good! Most repairs were completed in one day, no need to remove what you already installed.

If you desire to spend the money, take the time to try to make the repairs yourself....with no guranteed results of being what, you can try these links;

http://www.fibreglast.com/

http://www.gibbonsindustries.com/homepage.htm

It might be wise to call someone who already has the material, tools to accomplish this task. Just a thought!

Good Luck and let us know how you came out!

I am ready to call a pro, but all I can see in the yelow pages under fiberglass repair is a body shop. Should I call a local plumbing supply house, or someone else? A few leads on how to find a good fixer would be great. Thanks, Bob

BobMachus,

I would suggest;

Under Bathtubs & Sinks-Repairing and Refinishing

In addition, since each of the following sell fiberglass products, I am sure that they could refer you to someone skilled in fiberglass repair;

Local Plumbing Supply House

Kitchen and Bath Store

Last but maybe first, you could call Lasco and see if they would send a manufacturer repair rep to repair the flaws evident in your unit. I would think that it is possible for FREE REPAIR due to the short amount of time this unit has been installed. Sorry, I should have suggested this on my first reply.

Hope this helps and let us know how it turns out!

Thanks Doug,

I just fired off an email to Lasco. My younger brother lives in Royal Oak these days. I grew up in Troy/Birmingham, but wised up and moved out here to sunny CO. Thanks for the advice, I'll try some local kitchen and bath stores and bathtub & sink repairers.

Bob

BobMachus,

Hey! I forgot to mention one thing, you said your Lasco unit was sitting in the garage for 7 months and you just got it installed.

Guess what....

Gelcoat finish has 3 year warranties

http://www.lascobath.com/tubs.shtml

Find your papers if you can but I think your repairs can be made for free! If you can get it repaired for FREE, why not?!!!

Sorry about not saying this earlier but I just gave a post to Shirl and it came to me! (old age)

Good Luck!

BobMachus,

Oh yeah, I thank you for your kind words of wisdom where I live. I am from Minnesota and have been here in Michigan for about 5 years, Royal Oak for 2. I like this area and it is close to my client base Birmingham, Bloomfield hills, Beverly Hills, etc. Say Hi to your brother for me!

Colorado is great place to live. I'm glad you're enjoying it!

Good Luck on the repairs!