How to Repair a Crack in a Spillway Bowl
Cracks commonly develop when water is left in the bowl during freezing conditions. As the water freezes, it can crack the bottom of the bowl. Repair cracks promptly because they can become larger and deeper, eventually causing the bottom to break apart.
Materials Required
- J-B Weld WaterWeld epoxy putty
Repair Procedure
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Inspect the spillway bowl.
Check the inside and bottom of the bowl for cracks caused by freezing. Address the damage before the cracks become larger or deeper. -
Obtain the repair material.
Use J-B Weld WaterWeld, a two-part epoxy putty available at local hardware stores. -
Apply the epoxy putty.
Use the WaterWeld epoxy putty to repair the cracks inside the bowl. Follow the product’s application instructions, as the source does not provide specific preparation, mixing, application, or curing times. -
Allow the repair to harden.
Let the epoxy putty dry completely. Once cured, it forms a rock-solid, permanent, and fully waterproof repair. -
Finish the repaired area if necessary.
After the epoxy has hardened, it can be sanded and painted to improve the appearance of the repair. -
Return the bowl to service.
Do not refill or operate the spillway bowl until the epoxy has fully cured according to the product instructions.
Preventing Future Freeze Damage
Before freezing weather arrives:
- Drain all water from the bowl.
- Cover the bowl with Aquascape’s Fountain Cover for Spillway Bowl and Basin.
- Secure the cover so moisture cannot enter the bowl.
This winterization process helps protect the feature from freezing and additional cracking. The same epoxy repair material may also be used on decorative urns and spheres.