Bathtubs come in all shapes, sizes, designs, and materials without Vikrell among the most preferred tub material. However, while this material is lightweight, inexpensive, stain-resistant, durable, and doesn’t need caulking, you cannot overlook Vikrell problems.

Vikrell problems to watch out for include cracking, fading, mold and mildew growth, and flexing, warping, and breaking. Most of these issues can be avoided or delayed through proper care; however, wear and tear usually catches up to manufactured things.

This guide provides a step-by-step guide into the possible causes of Vikrell problems and their solutions.

Vikrell Problems and Solutions

	Problem	Possible Cause	Recommended Fix
1.	Cracking	Striking the fixture with a sharp or heavy object. Lack of a proper underlying foundation.	Keep sharp and heavy objects away from the tub Install a proper foundation before placing the tub
2.	Vikrell fading	Using bleach and other abrasive cleaners	Use mild cleaners
3.	Flexing, warping, and breaking	Installation problems	Follow the installation procedure from the manufacturer.
4.	Mold and mildew growth	Lack of caulking	Caulk around the fixture

1. Vikrell Cracking

Homeowners opt for Vikrell because it is sturdier than several metals and more malleable than carbon fiber. These qualities make it ideal for crafting bathtubs, septic tanks, hot tubs, swimming pools, surfboards, and many more.

Despite the glowing attributes above, some homeowners have raised concerns about Vikrell’s vulnerability to cracking. Vikrell bows to pressure when struck with a sharp or heavy object, a flaw that has driven some customers to alternatives like ceramic tiles.

Due to its proneness to fracturing, this material hardly endures 20 years. That explains why some customers can advise you to consider cast-iron tubs, which are more expensive but certainly more durable than their counterparts.

Vikrell offers incredible resistance before cracking, so small cracks shouldn’t worry you. If the cracks expand to the point that you can insert a screwdriver, it’s a telltale sign you need to patch them.

Failure to address this issue in time will shift the wall sections out of alignment and expose you to more significant risks, including structural problems.

Fix

Trim loose materials around the crack at a width of 1/8 inch so that the poly filler sticks properly.
Drill at each end of the crack to minimize the chances of it spreading after the repair.

Use a glass cleaner to clean the area.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions to know how to mix the poly filler.
Apply the poly filler to the crack and use a straight-edge spreader to smooth it out.

Give it at least 10 minutes to dry. If you are in a hurry, you can employ a heat gun to speed up drying (but only apply heat on the outer edges of the poly filler).
Remove excess filler from the surface. Experts recommend a blade for such to maintain the glossy finish.
Repeat the process with another batch of poly filler.

Wet sand the filler slightly with 320-400 grit sandpaper.
Use a towel to wipe the sand dust from the filling area.
Next, mix another batch of poly filler and repeat the process. Do this to achieve proper filling of the crack.

Take the paint bottle and shake it vigorously.
Mix paint and catalyst in equal proportions in a spray bottle and use it within 10 minutes.
After thorough mixing, attach the bottle to the integrated aerosol spray.

Test the sprayer on cardboard before spraying the content on Vikrell’s surface.
Spray a layer of paint on the repaired area, then wipe it off to conceal minor blemishes.
Hold the spray bottle approximately 10 inches from the repair surface and spray lightly.

Allow it to settle for two minutes, then spray again.
If the area is not covered to your satisfaction, spray again (lightly) after another two minutes.
Apply blending solvent over the painted area. Ensure you cover all over-spray areas to minimize halo effects.

Give the repaired area 24 hours to dry.
Clean the airbrush and discard all waste materials.

NOTE: Experts warn against repairing cracks exceeding five inches and instead seek professional guidance. Additionally, when using a heat gun to cure the poly filer, avoid overheating the area to keep the filler from bubbling after drying up.

2. Vikrell Fading

One thing that attracts customers to Vikrell products is their super-glossy finish. They embody thin glass fibers blended with plastic and polyresin, which adds to their luster.

Nevertheless, the aesthetic appeal can fade with time, mainly because of the methods used to clean the fixtures. Bleach and hard-bristled brushes will scratch and compromise the appearance of the Vikrell unit.

Fix

Use soft clothes or a sponge to wipe Vikrell’s surface.
Use mild cleaners as opposed to bleach and other abrasive products.
Polish the tub regularly.

3. Vikrell Flexing, Warping, and Breaking

Even though Vikrell can be a great addition to your bathroom, installing it is an uphill task. There have been numerous complaints online from customers who found it difficult to install this fixture, and even after doing so, the tub flexed, warped, and broke.

These anomalies stem from neglecting or ignorance of foundation requirements. Installation of Vikrell tubs demands a layer of mortar or cement to serve as the foundation and contributes to the tub’s durability.

Without a mortar bed, your Vikrell will crack even with the slightest of impacts, like dropping a bar of soap from an adult’s height. It will leave you with avoidable costs.

Fix

Place a layer of mortar or cement before installing the Vikrell tub.

4. Mold And Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew will invade the spaces around the Vikrell tub. This is despite the brand insisting that you don’t need to seal the spaces around the fixture, but I bet you know better now.

This problem also arises from installing Vikrell, which isn’t a perfect fit for your restroom.

Fix

Caulk the seams around the fixture.

What Cleaners Are Safe For Vikrell?

You can use Kohler premium formula Vikrell cleaner to clean lime, soap scum, and heavy soil from the Vikrell bath, shower, and sink surfaces. This cleaner promises to maintain the luster of your product for an extended period.

Manufacturers also suggest using a soft cloth to wipe the Vikrell surface after use to curtail the accumulation of soap scum.

However, experts caution against using bleach, acidic solvents, and other abrasive chemicals when cleaning Vikrell materials. Using such will discolor your fixture and dull its surface.

How Long Does A Vikrell Tub Last?

Vikrell products come with a mouth-watering warranty of 10 years. That speaks volumes about the quality of the products you’ll get from the brand.

Vikrell bathtubs can serve you many years, provided you take good care of them.

What Kind Of Material Is Vikrell?

Vikrell is an exclusive Kohler Company rigid composite material consisting of fiberglass, resins, and filler. The substance is compression sculpted in massive presses to make solid, lightweight bathtubs and wall surround.

Vikrell is easy to clean thanks to the non-porous finish and is retailed by Sterling Plumbing Products-a division of Kohler company.

Does Vikrell Crack?

Vikrell materials boast smooth surfaces resistant to cracking, chipping, and peeling. The material also resists wearing thanks to the color mold (that also conceals tiny scratches).

Final Thoughts On Vikrell Problems

Vikrell products are lightweight, economical, stain-resistant, and durable. However, you will deal with problems like cracking, fading, breaking, mold, and mildew infestation.