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bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
We have a 1 3/4 year old 2019 LD 27' Mid Bath.  The bathroom sink has 6 cracks in it.  At least one is leaking through a little.  The only time we put the stopper in, and water in it, is to rinse a washcloth twice a day.  Otherwise we use it to brush teeth and wash hands.  The sink did clog up once and we put boiling dish soapy water in it to clear the clog which worked.  It is also is a little rougher, like it is wearing the finish off, up to the level where the water is put to rinse the washcloth.  The water to rinse the washcloth is warm but never very hot.  We don't care too much about looks, just want the sink to work.  Does anyone have any suggestions on fixing the leaks?  I see fiberglass repair kits, but we cannot get to the bottom of the sink without removing the sink and are hoping we can repair it just from the top.  I am also a little concerned about the safety of us sanding down the cracks on top and repairing it with a fiberglass kit.  I attached a picture of the larger cracks.

Has anyone else had this problem with their fiberglass sink?  Any suggestions?

Thank you!
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #1 –
Your rig is nearly new, Bonnie, and the problem is certainly covered under warranty. I'd say your first move should be to call the factory.
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
 
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #2 –
We did call the factory, but the warranty is one year.  So far they suggested flexseal but I am not sure if it will really work, and concerned about washing our face with water that was in flexseal coating. 
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #3 –
How disappointing. This should not happen with such a new sink.  Can you use the flex seal on the bottom side? I’d have to do some research, I don’t know if there is anything toxic in flexseal. Personally, I like marine adhesives, I think they are better quality and longer lasting. I would look for a clear sealant myself if using on the top side. You may also be able to fix the cracks with an epoxy, then paint the sink with a marine top coat paint...it may look new again.

Update: Flexseal is not safe for potable water. I would be leery using it inside my sink, but that’s my opinion.
“According to FDA regulations, the typical clear finishes that dry to a hard film, including polyurethane, are considered food safe. Wait to use the surface until the finish is completely dried, and clean it before allowing food contact. ... However, you will not have any problem applying polyurethane over the shellac.” Google
SoCal-Gal  (Tracy)
1991 26.5 RB
Previous 1988 22’ LD Multi plan
Previous 1992 Six-pack Camper
Spare the sealant, spoil the job.
Travelers: Tracy, spouse Anthony, Coton de Tulear, Gabby and parrotlet, Indigo
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #4 –
Quote from: bonnie  - 
We did call the factory, but the warranty is one year.  So far they suggested flexseal but I am not sure if it will really work, and concerned about washing our face with water that was in flexseal coating. 
I should think the manufacturer of the sink would provide a longer warranty than 1 year. Were I you, I'd press them for replacement and raise some heck if they resist. Dometic replaced my toilet bowl 9 years and 11 months into a 10 year warranty when I sent them photos of a hairline-cracked bowl.

Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #5 –
We only contacted LD, not the sink manufacturer.  We will explore contacting the sink manufacturer with LD. 
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #6 –

So the actual material is important.  Mine is acrylic. If it is fiberglass for your sink, then it would be a 'sprayed into the form' gelcoat. That is usually a styrene monomer.  Bondo would be the choice for a repair, a polyester resin.  Dig out a crack slightly, fill it with catalyzed resin. It hardens fast. Sand level and paint with an acrylic paint. An epoxy paint might be more durable.
   While the surface could probably be temperature proof to boiling water, I could see where thermal shock could separate the layers used to make fiberglass. So that could be the problem. If you have a clog in the plumbing, flexible plastic tools are safer to use.
   Something like this  Amazon.com: 7Pack Drain Clog Remover Tool,20Inch Hair Drain Clog Tool(6PCS)+1...     RonB

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RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #7 –
I would definitely coat the underneath of the bowl completely with a waterproof sealant, such as 3M 5200 FC, but still sand and seal the cracks in the top surface of the bowl as needed to avoid bacterial growth.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #8 –
That sink should not have failed with normal use.   I’d press the factory once more for a replacement.  If you are relatively close to the factory, ask if they will at least inspect the sink for a manufacturing flaw.  If that’s a dead end I’d follow up with the suggestion above and contact the manufacturer for relief.  

If the factory and manufacturer refuses all assistance, ask if you can at least buy a replacement at cost. 

Finally, some DIY LD owners have replaced the entire BR sink and shelf with a piece of hardwood and a drop-in sink.  Frankly that will last longer and look better than a patch job on on the sink that should NOT have failed.

Hope this helps.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #9 –
Leaks should be sealed from the side with the liquid, not from the outside, to do so will trap water inside the sink material.
If the sink will not be replaced under warranty, I would use a clear penetrating sealer, the type used on grout and stone countertops, applied from the inside of the sink. It may take several applications to totally seal the cracks but should result in a next to invisible repair. These sealers are food-safe, made for use in kitchens

Since the sink is not used for food preparation, a penetrating sealer such as Loctite 290 could also be used, a product I have used for years to seal tiny leaks and porosity in all sorts of solid materials.

Having cracks in such a new sink is not common, LD should do something about this or help you get satisfaction from the manufacturer.  BTW, the sinks can be very difficult to remove, depending on how much adhesive was used.
Avoid pouring boiling water down any plastic sink, I wouldn't mention doing this when trying to get it replaced under warranty.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #10 –

IF you search amazon, there are patch kits for fiberglass tubs/sinks.  This is the same thing the "pros" use when they come do a patch (often before painting the tub/sink).  It is a 2 part, mix, then apply fairly smooth, then sand .. application.  Made for sinks so should be good for potable water but check.  Made for exactly what you are doing.
Here are a couple:
 one fiberglass patch kit
Here is another one that includes the ability to color match (but look at the reviews, not so easy sometimes) Fiberglass patch with color matching

These products are not end all be all, drop only soft things on them or they can crack/chip.
I have used the paint products with great success for shower stall bottoms (the plastic like molded non smooth ones).
I am about to try out the product above but I won't know how well it works for another 6 months or so.
Jane

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
Bigfoot 25RQ Twin on order with early summer 2024 ETA

Our smartphone autocorrects into very poor English.
 We disclaim the illusion of ignorance this creates as we have enough ignorance we rightly claim.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #11 –
Quote from: bonnie  - 
We only contacted LD, not the sink manufacturer.  We will explore contacting the sink manufacturer with LD. 
Sorry that you are having to deal with such an issue. Best of luck with contacting the manufacture, and I hope you can get the problem addressed. Please let the group know of the outcome.
Sam
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #12 –
At this point we are talking with LD and with the bathroom sink manufacturer (there is a little conflict between them.  LD has switched manufacturer).  They both seem to be trying to help us.  They both say this should not have happened.  LD said they have never seen this before.  LD is going to check more and get back with us next week.  The sink manufacturer is going to contact someone who could repair the sink that is near where we are (they called the cracks "blisters").  LD at this point is saying fix it don't replace it, because fixing is easier and a better option, because it is more complicated to replace it.  We drove by a fiberglass repair place today and he said he could fix it for about $500, or it would cost about the same for him to put the new sink in if LD sent one.  He was leaning toward replace not fix.  The fiberglass repair place today said probably when they were making the sink it got water in it and caused the problem.   

My concern is what if they fix it and it cracks more.  But we are leaning toward doing what they recommend to protect ourselves a little more.  We have been bouncing back and forth on what to do.  Really appreciate everyone putting in their 2cents worth.  We pondered replacing it with wood and a stainless sink, but also sounds like finding a sink might be tricky.  And since we are not handy in this area sounds like it could be costly  (We talked to a RV place that said they would put in a corian counter and sink for about $1500-$1700, but he said finding a sink might be tricky.)

Once we get more information and make a decision I will give an update.  In the meantime appreciate anything anyone has to say.

Thanks!!
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #13 –
Thanks for the update, Bonnie. Keep us posted on how it goes.
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #14 –
If a new sink is available, changing it will be the best long-term option...no matter who pays or it.
Removing the old sink can be a chore. I would cover the whole countertop in a minimum of two layers of masking tape, for protection, Use a 1' wide thin, flexible putty knife, sharpened to a sharp edge, to cut under the sink's lip, working round and round until it is cut free.
It will take time, LD glued the sink so it would never loosen on its own.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #15 –

The sink may have a manufacturing defect or, as has been suggested, the boiling water used to unclog the sink drain may have caused the cracks.

You might want to prevent clogs by using stainless steel mesh sink drain strainers; this is one example. The strainers are available at Home Depot and several other places in addition to Amazon.

4pcs Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Slop Basket Filter Trap, 2.75" Top / 1" Mesh...

Cleaning the sink drains with a "blast" of white vinegar and baking soda is very effective; shake  a few tablespoons of baking soda into the drain, then pour about 1/2 cup of white vinegar over the baking soda. The resulting "foam up" dislodges crud and build-up; repeat if necessary.

The mesh screens keep food particles and whatnot out of the grey tank, and help to prevent any buildup of nasty stuff in the drains and tank. Cleaning the screens is simple; tap the screen against the inside of the trash can to remove collected bits. Scrub the screens with an old toothbrush when needed.

If you don't already do this, I suggest scraping your dishes and pots and pans with a rubber/silicone spatula and wiping out any additional food residue with paper towels before washing the dishes; this will go a long way to keeping drains and sinks working properly. (And, I'm sure you know not to pour grease down the sink drain; if I have grease to dispose of, I make a "cup" of aluminum foil, pour in any oil or grease, fold over the top of the cup, and put it in the trash. Or, if you have a can handy, pour the grease into that for disposal.)

Additionally, acrylic or fiberglass sinks are best "scrubbed" with a very mild abrasive cleaner; I've used Bon Ami for many years, and recommend it.

YMMV, as always.

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #16 –
"...if I have grease to dispose of..."


This is an item I have used to great advantage for several years, both in the Lazy Daze and at home! Doesn't take up much space and keeps everything neat and tidy. Recommend it highly.  ;)

Amazon.com: Fat Trapper System/Grease Storage Container with TWELVE Disposabl...
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #17 –
Our bathroom sink was replaced a month ago.  Todd from Lazy Daze talked to the owner and he said replacing it was better than fixing it.  They sent us a replacement sink/counter like the old one (slightly different color).  Cost $200 which included shipping.  He indicated he was giving us a discount and paying the shipping.  We had Dave & LJ’s RV Furniture in Woodland Washington install it ($300)  We talked to several people about it and everyone indicated it was probably a manufacturing issue.  The new sink has mesh on the bottom of it, which the old sink did not.  The new sink looks more durable.  I was hoping to replace it with a wood counter and a stainless steel sink but Dave & LJ's indicated there was not a stainless steel sink that small.

The sink drain would get something strange down below the bottom of the sink plug that acted like the spray foam that expands.  It would grow and I would knock it out a few times and I think that is what plugged the drain.  It was brown, and like a glob of rubbery mass.  It was below the drain so it could only go down.   It has not done it since we got the new sink.  It was strange, I could never figure out what it was.  We never put grease or anything down either of the sinks.  In the kitchen, I always wipe off dishes really well before washing them. The bathroom sink that had the problem only gets toothpaste, mouth wash and hand washing soap put down it.  So I don't have a clue about the brown gunk.  At this point the sink issue is done and we are moving on to the next issues of life.  :-) 

Thank you all for your feedback. 
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #18 –
I’ve heard positive reports of the products and services provided by Dave and LJ’s; were you satisfied with their work?
2003 TK has a new home
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #19 –
We are very satisfied with Dave & LJ's work.  We were there about 3 hours for the work.  They were able to do it quickly, where other places were to busy.  My husband noticed their ad in Motorhome Magazine for years. 
2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #20 –
Thank you Bonnie for following up with this information.  It's always nice to hear about a good result and IMO, it's very polite to "close out" a topic.  So thank you.
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #21 –
Quote from: bonnie  - 
drain would get something strange down below the bottom of the sink plug that acted like the spray foam that expands.  It would grow and I would knock it out a few times and I think that is what plugged the drain.  It was brown, and like a glob of rubbery mass.  It was below the drain so it could only go down.   It has not done it since we got the new sink.  It was strange, I could never figure out what it was.  We never put grease or anything down either of the sinks.

I have no idea what the blockage was but have a way to keep the drains clean besides using a drain strainer to keep as much as possible out of the drains and tank.
While servicing the rig at home, I blow the sinks and shower drain out using a hose and pistol nozzle, aiming the nozzle down each drain and blasting it, a little blowback is always possible. It does a good job of keeping the drains clear.
Shower drains should be checked occasionally for hair build-up, my wife's long hair produces ropes in the drain.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #22 –
White vinegar and baking soda make an effective “boil up” drain cleaner for an RV bathroom and kitchen sink and shower.

Using stainless steel mesh strainers in the drains helps to keep yucky stuff out of the pipes and tanks.

2003 TK has a new home
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #23 –
Thank you Bonnie for the follow-through.  I’ve read your story with interest as it unfolded.  And, I’m glad that the matter is resolved, even if not covered under warranty.

I also wish to thank Joan for the steel mesh strainer suggestion.  We began using them in our shower and sink drains after reading one of Joan’s posts a few years ago.  We’ve also followed the oft suggested “wipe out your dishes before washing” routine (to prevent introducing oil/grease into the gray plumbing system).  Touching wood, we’ve had no drain issues to date.

Warren
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL
Re: bathroom sink - cracks in the fiberglass
Reply #24 –
We are really bummed.  Our 6 week old, new bathroom sink has a crack starting in it that I can feel when I run my fingers around the sink.  We are struggling to figure out why this is happening again.  We only brush teeth, rinse with mouthwash, hand wash, and my husband pours in water that is at or below 120 degrees.  So at this point we are trying to figure out if he cannot pour 120 degree water in the sink.  He generally heats 3 cups of water and pours it over his face cloth that is in the sink, to wash his face in the morning and evening - sometimes he adds a little cold water in the sink before or after pouring the warm water in.  That is the only thing we can figure out that is causing the sink to crack.  He put a thermometer in the water last night to see how warm he makes it - it was 119 degrees.  He is sensitive to hot water (as well as cold) so I am certain he does not go above 120.  We generally only run the hot water heater when we take showers, so he heats the water in the microwave or a kettle for washing his face. 

My question is:  Does anyone out there have a fiberglass sink and you pour water that is about 120 degrees in it? 

Since we got the sink the temperature in the RV has never gone below 60 degrees.  So is 120 degrees and/or that temperature difference (60-120) enough to make a fiberglass sink crack.  We are so disappointed and frustrated that this is happening again.

Then secondly we are trying to figure out if we can fix it with some resin in the tiny cracks and just never rinse is face cloth in the sink again.  There are 2 very tiny cracks that can just be felt so it is so small that I am not sure if resin will get in it.  But from our past experience I think the cracks will just grow.  The cracks do not feel like straight cracks but in the shape of an X or Y.  They are not leaking through yet and I suspect it will be a while before they do, since last time it was only one bigger crack that started leaking.



2019 Mid Bath 27’
Bonnie & David Prouty
Full timing since August 2019 when we picked up the LD.