Can anyone help me repair tiny cracks in my 80s cultured marble bathroom sink vanity before I paint it?
Asked by Estefânia Gonçalves 
6 months ago
Last Updated: June 26, 2024
Hey there!
I’m wondering if any of you could give me some advice on how to repair my bathroom sink. It’s an 80’s vanity made of cultured marble, and I think it has something called “crazing” (those tiny little cracks that don’t go all the way through.)
I’ve heard about bleaching it, but I was wondering if there’s a way to fill or smooth out the cracks before I paint the vanity top. Thanks so much for any help!
The drain was tightened too much, causing cracking. Honestly, I’m not sure what a good solution would be. Marble is quite delicate. If it has lasted this long, that’s impressive. Hopefully someone else can give you a better answer to your question.
Depending on the size, you can find the can at a big box store for 100 bucks, but it’s not worth it
I have a similar one. It’s been like that for over a decade. It hasn’t worsened but is quite an eyesore. I’m not sure if you can “bondo” it. However, I’ve used the bath restoration glaze on around 10 baths. It fills in many fine cracks. So, if you sand it with some coarse grit paper (80) and then finer grit (120-220), you might not notice it as much after painting. I’ve used the Home Depot Rustoleum Bath Restore multiple times. It works “pretty well”. However, the best brand was Klenks. Home Depot no longer carries it. It may have been removed from the market due to stronger fumes, but it cures much stronger and lasts much longer. The cost was around the same. None of the paint options will last more than about 5 years before needing another coat. It’s a good temporary solution until you’re ready to replace it.
Regarding paint.. I can’t find Klenk’s paint anywhere. However, the next one I plan to try is this one. I haven’t tried it yet but it has the best reviews for the price… though it’s not cheap. I just wasn’t as satisfied with Rustoleum as I was with Klenk’s.
Regardless, make sure you prep the sink VERY well. Epoxy won’t adhere to ANY soap scum, silicone caulk, or body oil buildups!!
When it’s time to replace it,
Check out granite/stone manufacturing warehouses nearby to see if they can offer you a remnant piece. That’s the best way to get a good price for replacing just a simple vanity top.
Paint-
/https://a.co/d/fY2gMhs
Hey, so I was thinking about using the Rustoleum tub and tile kit for the shower tiles. I figured I’d have some left over to do the vanity top. We’re just looking for a temporary fix right now since our main focus is the kitchen. We’ll tackle the bathroom when we can afford it. I also picked up a two-part epoxy, hoping it will hold up for a year or two.
I swear by this trick! I’ve used it on rental properties and my own home multiple times. Make sure to prep really well and sand everything thoroughly. Scrub away all the scum from the surfaces because even if you think it’s clean, there might still be oily residue. Epoxy won’t stick properly if there are oils, soap, or silicone left behind. A good prep job can make the finish look brand new. Thin coats are key, especially on the sides of the tub or sink to prevent the paint from running due to the leveling compound. It’s important to pay close attention, but it’s not too difficult.
For painting, use foam rollers for large flat areas and replace them between coats to avoid them falling apart. Use a brush for small crevices and corners. Painter’s tape is helpful, but paint very thin at the edges to prevent paint from seeping underneath. Use a razor knife to remove the tape after the final coat but before it’s completely dry
Hey there! I suggest grabbing an extra box just in case you need it. It’s important to apply coats within an hour, especially when working on tub and surround tiles and vanity. You can always return the unopened box if you don’t end up needing it. Trust me, you don’t want to risk running out between coats.
Hey , thanks for the helpful tips! I’m new to renovating and refinishing projects, so I’m feeling a bit nervous about this one. So, are you suggesting that I shouldn’t use the epoxy on the sink cracks? I was planning on sanding it down flat afterwards, but will the Rustoleum not stick to the epoxy?
An unnamed person mentioned that the Rustoleum Tub and Sink Refinishing Kit is made of epoxy. They recommended sanding first and using the kit for a complete fix. They haven’t tried it on composite marble but used it on ceramic tiles and iron tubs. They believe it should adhere but suggest checking other sources for confirmation. When it comes to cracks, sanding should smooth most of them out so the paint can cover them with a few coats. However, it’s advisable to do some research or a spot test to check if it repels the paint. If it beads up on a small area instead of staying smooth, use goof off to remove it and find an alternative product. The assumption is that it won’t repel as long as all soap and skin oils are removed.
The tubs I’ve worked on had some small hairline cracks, but the refinishing filled them up.
I’ve witnessed numerous techniques used to salvage sinks, tubs, showers, and countertops over the years. I haven’t found anything that lasts or looks good when completed. The main goal is to save money, and they all achieve that. If you’re satisfied with a subpar product, they all get the job done. You can search for options online, but nothing beats replacement 😎
Consider just replacing the top to keep costs down.
Replacing it may be the more cost-effective and simpler option, depending on the vanity and the installation process.
If your vanity is a standard size, replacing it can be quite affordable. What are the dimensions of your vanity?
Can’t be fixed, should be replaced
Can’t be repaired, need to be replaced
It’s made of plastic
I understand that you’re fond of it, but it’s beyond repair.
If you want to keep the counter, you might be able to find a drop in sink or a vessel sink big enough to go over the current one. If it were up to me, I’d change it all.
You did a great job keeping the pop-up clean and sparkling, but the sink is pretty bad 🗑️
Keep the top counter and vanity but switch out the sink.