Frequently asked questions

1. I am a homeowner, engaging in a remodeling project. Can I purchase cultured marble from IMI?
   IMI is not set up to handle remodeling projects. Our Atlanta ReBath division specializes in installing tub and shower base liners over existing steel tubs and tile shower bases. Please check their website at AtlantaRebath.com for further info. Or you may check ReBath.com for a Re-Bath dealer in your area.
2. I have an old sink that has hairline cracks around the drain area. Can this be repaired?
   These hairline cracks are caused by the cycling of hot and and cold water onto the drain area. The fine layer of glossy gelcoat is under stress where the vanity top drain is tightened around the drain hole. The cycling of hot and cold water will create stress fractures around that area. These cracks cannot be repaired. Your best bet is to replace the top. There are specialized companies that are equipped to deal with the plumbing aspect of replacing older vanity tops. We suggest you check your local yellow pages under Bathtroom Remodeling or similar heading.
3. If I install a replacement sink, what guarantee do I have that the same cracks will not reappear?
   Over the past 10 years, there have been tremendous advances in gelcoats,resins and casting methods. Today, reputable manufacturers manufacture cultured marble products that meet various ANSI codes that a.o. deal with the issue of stress related cracks. Today's cultured marble products are a lot stronger than they used to be.
4. I am a homeowner, live out of state and am in need of a few cultured marble products. Can IMI ship them to me?
   IMI can ship standard vanity tops, tubs, standard size shower bases and custom shower bases.
5. I have a few scratches in my cultured marble products. What can I do myself to remedy this?
   For minor scratches, you can use an automotive polishing compound to smoothen out the surface. A multi-purpose product such as Gel Gloss can further seal the surface and bring back some of the luster. Gel Gloss is available at Home Depot, Lowe's or your local hardware store. Most often, you will use a soft cotton cloth or an automotive type of buffing wheel.
6. I have some mildew on the silicone seal where the shower or tub panels meet the shower base or tub. How can I avoid this for the future and clean this up?
   All modern 100% silicone sealants contain a anti-mildew agent. However, these additives flash off over a period of about 6 months after their application. 100% silicone sealants can discolor over time because the mixture of soap scum, water and skin particles that remain on the seal, form an ideal food base for mold to grow in. The blackish color that is typical to mold and mildew will then transfer onto the silicone sealant. We recommend keeping the seams dry or to use a bleach mixture of 50% water and 50% household chlorine on the silicone seams to kill any potential for mildew. If you want to tackle re-sealing your shower or tub, you can do so by carefully removing the existing sealant (f.i. using a utility knife), using a cotton rag with denatured alcohol to clean and dry out the area to be sealed. Then reapply 100% silicone sealant. Be sure to use only 100% silicone sealant. Paintable acrylic based sealants will shrink over time and create voids for water to pass thru.
7. What is the life expectancy of my cultured marble products?
   When properly installed and cleaned with non-abrasive products, your cultured marble products should maintain their beauty and usefulness for a lifetime.
8. How do I clean my whirlpool system on my tub?
   Cleaning your whirlpool system should become part of your bathing routine. Fill the tub so that the water covers all of the jets. Turn on the motor and add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dishwasher detergent (crystal type works best) or household bleach to the water. Run the motor for 10 to 15 minutes. Turn off the motor and drain the water from the tub. Once all of the water is drained from the tub you can run the motor again for 30 to 45 seconds to expel excess water from the whirlpool system. It may require more than one cleaning if the system has not been cleaned regularly.
9. Why should I not use soaps, oils and bath detergent in a whirlpool tub?
   Bubble bath type of products leave an oily film on the inside of the whirlpool tubing. This oily film in a dark, moist and relatively warm area is an ideal feeding ground for mold. If you were to accidentally use bubble bath type products, we strongly recommend you clean your tub as described above.
10. I have a tile shower base and it leaks continuously. What options do I have?
    Besides a complete tear out and reinstallation, you can also have a professional install a shower base liner over your existing tile base. Companies such as Re-Bath, LLC (see ReBath.com) have developed affordable acrylic shower base liners for this purpose. These liners are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. At times, the cause of the leak is situated in your tile stoop, tile kneewall cap or where the shower enclosure jambs meet the shower walls. It is recommended that stoops and caps also be covered with a water tight material such as a cultured marble trim piece.
11. If I have my shower redone, can I re-use my existing shower enclosure?
    Glass enclosures are custom made to fit the application. Tight tolerances are needed to guarantee a watertight fit. It is usually not possible to re-use existing enclosures.