Do you have chipped or scratched porcelain items? Homax Porcelain Chip Fix’s package says it “repairs chips and scratches on sinks, tubs and tile.”

    But does it really work?

    “Today’s Homeowner” co-host Chelsea Lipford Wolf used the product to fix a porcelain chip on her bathroom sink, and she shared her review on her blog.

    Read more to learn what causes chips and scratches in porcelain, what you can use to DIY repair them (including Homax Porcelain Chip Fix), and what maintenance you should perform on your porcelain sinks.


    Common Causes of Chipping and Scratching

    Porcelain sinks, tubs, and tiles are prone to chipping and scratching as they age because of:

    • Heavy use and wear
    • Dropping hard or sharp objects on the surface
    • Using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
    • Installation issues or improper sealing

    Damage accumulates gradually over years of use. While minor chips and scratches are common in any home, severe damage can detract from the bathroom’s look and allow moisture to seep in, causing more problems.



    DIY Repair Options

    Repairing chips and scratches yourself before replacing your porcelain items is an affordable option. Some potential DIY solutions include:

    • Porcelain repair kits like Homax: Manufacturers make these two-part epoxy products for porcelain repairs. Results vary based on proper use and damage extent.
    • Clear nail polish or super glue: For small hairline cracks and chips, these may produce decent results. Only works for minor flaws.
    • Plumber’s putty: Soft putty can fill in flaws and get scraped flat after you kneed it. It delivers a temporary fix but isn’t that durable.
    • Spray paint: Scrub off the surface and spray with appliance paint for scratched areas. (You may notice touch-up spots.)

    DIY solutions are affordable but can be tricky to apply. Unsightly repairs may result if not done properly.


    Professional Repair Services

    If you are not DIY-savvy, hire a professional to repair your porcelain sink. Hiring a pro usually yields the best results. Benefits include:

    • Specialized products and tools: Professionals have commercial-grade fillers, sealants, epoxies, and bonding agents that consumers can’t buy.
    • Color matching: Technicians can closely match your porcelain’s color. DIY touch-ups often come out mismatched.
    • Smooth finish: Repairs get sanded and polished to a seamless, factory-fresh finish. DIY repairs may be uneven.
    • Proper prep and application: Experts know how to properly prepare the area and apply products for successful repairs.
    • Warranties: Many pros offer warranties on repair workmanship. There’s no recourse if you make a bad DIY repair.
    • Longevity: Professional repairs should outlast DIY attempts.

    Porcelain repair services range from $200 to $500, depending on the magnitude of the damage. For context, compare that to the cost of a full bathroom renovation.


    Factors Affecting Repair Results

    Certain factors impact the repair results of your porcelain sink and other items:

    • Location: Flat surface damage is easier to repair than edge or ridge chips.
    • Severity: Minor flaws have better outcomes than deep gouges or missing chunks.
    • Color: Solid colors make blending repairs simpler than multi-colored surfaces.
    • Age: Newer items tend to repair better than older, faded porcelain.
    • Products used: Commercial repair products work better than makeshift DIY solutions.
    • Skill level: An experienced pro’s work will look better than amateur DIY repairs.

    Considering these factors together will help you set realistic expectations. Severe damage or improper DIY mixing may prevent seamless repairs.


    Maintenance Tips

    To prevent future chipping and scratching of your porcelain:

    • Use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths.
    • Avoid hitting surfaces with hard objects that can chip the finish.
    • Regularly re-apply tub and tile caulk to seal edges and prevent moisture damage.
    • Install padding around fixtures to absorb impacts.
    • Consider slip-resistant tub decals for traction.
    • Hang curtains to protect the tile from hits and scrapes.
    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    With proper care, your surfaces can better resist damage and stay beautiful longer. Small chips and scratches are often inevitable, but repair is possible with the right products and techniques, like repairing plastic (PVC) pipes.


    So, Is Porcelain Chip Fix Effective for Repairs?

    Based on Chelsea’s experience, Porcelain Chip Fix can effectively repair minor chips and scratches on your porcelain sinks, tubs, and tile. For flaws under one inch wide, it provides an easy, affordable DIY solution to improve the look of your porcelain. With the proper application, the two-part epoxy filler hardens to match the surrounding area.

    However, Homax Porcelain Chip Fix may not work as well for large defects over bigger surface areas. Repairs can be obvious on close inspection. DIY applications require you to carefully follow instructions. Improper mixing or failure to smooth the epoxy well can lead to unsightly repairs.

    For heavy damage, professional services may provide more seamless, lasting results using commercial-grade products and skills. But for small imperfections, Porcelain Chip Fix offers a relatively simple way to revive chipped and scratched porcelain surfaces.

    Let us know if this product worked for you by leaving your experience with it in Chelsea’s comments section.


    FAQs About Repairing Chipped Porcelain

    How do you prep porcelain for repairs?

    Lightly sand and clean the damaged area to remove gloss and debris. Sanding helps products bond better. Wipe with isopropyl alcohol before application.


    What is the best porcelain repair kit?

    Top DIY porcelain repair kits include Porc-a-Fix, DuPont Porcelain Repair Kit, Bondic Plastic Welder, and Porcelain Fixit Stick. Compare them and choose one that fits your repair job and has positive customer reviews.


    Is Porcelain Chip Fix Food Safe?

    The manufacturer says porcelain chip epoxies, once cured fully, are food-safe. Avoid direct food contact until hardened completely.


    How long does porcelain filler take to dry?

    Drying times vary by product, but most compounds take 12–24 hours to fully cure. Don’t submerge repairs or use abrasives until hardened.


    Can you use chip repair in a bathtub?

    Yes, you can use chip repair epoxy in a bathtub as long as you wait until the repair is fully cured before filling it with water. Tub repairs may be more obvious than sink repairs because of to-body contact.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

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    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

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