For many years, gel coat fiberglass has dominated the U.S. bath industry. It is lightweight, easy to install, and can be molded into a variety of shapes. Though similar in appearance to acrylic when new, it generally does not maintain its high gloss like acrylic. It is affected more by the chemicals, hard water, and detergents that contact the surface.
Higher quality products include a thicker coating, multiple layers of fiberglass, added structural support, and a thicker base. Most combination bath tubs and showers in modern day homes are constructed from this material. They are inexpensive to build, but are very easy to damage.
Therefore, repair is very common. The Quick Glaze system can be used, and will result in a superior repair, but most repairs are made using appropriate filler with a gel coat resin color matched to the original surface.
Multi-Tech Products offers a Gel Coat Repair Kit to repair cracks, chips, burns, crazing, and other types of damage. Check our Color section to select the correct color. Abrasive cleaners should not be used on the surface. Multi-Tech also supplies materials to replace (tub inlay) an entire bathtub floor, and to reinforce the bottom using polyurethane foam.