How to Fix a Cracked Water Softener Tank

Water softeners are found in many homes and will last for years without needing replacement. However, they have a fiberglass shell that can crack if something is banged into it. Superficial cracks can be fixed using a fiberglass patch but you should not try to fix cracks that damage the casing underneath the outer shell. This can cause structural damage in the water softener and void your warranty. Check your warranty before doing any work on your softener.

Soap
Cloth
Towel
Fiberglass cloth
Scissors
Fiberglass resin
Liquid hardener
Flexible spatula
Aluminum foil
Small-bristle paintbrush
Sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the area with soapy water and a cloth. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid getting water in the crack. You only want to clean the surface. Dry the area thoroughly with a towel.
- 2
  Cut a piece of fiberglass cloth that is large enough to cover the crack. Set it aside.
- 3
  Mix the resin and hardener together according to the manufacturer's instructions. This is usually at a ratio of 1 ounce resin to 12 drops hardener. Use a flexible spatula, putty knife or squeegee to mix the two parts on a piece of cardboard.
- 4
  Apply a coat of the resin mixture over the crack so it extends 2 inches out on all sides.
- 5
  Set the fiberglass cloth on a piece of aluminum foil or wax paper. Dab it with the resin mixture until it is saturated.
- 6
  Lay the cloth over the crack so it covers it completely. Smooth out any wrinkles. Apply another layer of the resin mixture on top using the brush.
- 7
  Allow the resin to cure for at least two hours.
- 8
  Sand the patch with 80-grit sandpaper. Follow the sanding with 180-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges.

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