Hello Plumbing Geniuses,

I have a bath tub that looks like it has been leaking for years at the tub drain. Consequently, the hole in the bottom of the tub is rotten and rusted around the edges, and bigger than it should be. The new drain replacement will not fit securely and there could be renewed leaking.

A plumbing supply house recommended epoxy putty to secure the new drain in place, but cautioned me that I could never get this out again once installed. Can I use the epoxy putty to build up the hole first, let it harden, and then insert the drain?

The tub is in a tiny bathroom, and would be most difficult to replace.

Any suggestions?

Thanks as always,

Glenn

Without the drain in place, it would be tough to get the epoxy smooth enough. If you smear the drain with grease where it contacts the epoxy, the epoxy won't bond to it. You could also cut like a gasket out of a plastic bag and put it between the drain and epoxy.

Hey Glen, Good holidays?
If you really wish to spruce up that tub why not consider a tub liner. Check out the FQ's on loners at; http://www.bathtub-liners.com/how-to-install-repair.html
That would take care of that drain hole and any other discolorations and imperfections and give your tub a new look. Cheers, Tom

Your questions is not uncommon. A professional can fix the drain.
I am a tub repair professional who is out of Greenville SC.

Tom Nelson

Hmmmmm... Please, let me know what you did with it ! I kind of think it is impossible to do w/o seriously compromising the finished look. Can you post a photo of the final installation to prove me wrong ? Thanks !

A professional uses special materials to form and color the unit back to original appearance.
I do this on a daily basis for the manufactures, Builders, Homeowners, Etc. You will need to contact someone in your area. For more information or pictures go to Bathroom Refinishing, Bathtub Repairs, Acrylic Tubliners, Countertop Repair & Refinishing, Bath & Kitchen Remodeling (http://www.surfacespecialists.com).