How to Patch a Hole in an Outer Tub for a GE Washing Machine

A hole in your General Electric washing machine tub results in leaking water. The tub is generally made out of a hard plastic that sometimes suffers from damage after years of use. A fiberglass repair kit can remedy the problem by making use of a fiberglass cloth and an epoxy mixture. Anyone with basic DIY or even craft skills can repair a hole in their GE washing machine drum and be back in clean laundry within an afternoon.

Step 1

Smooth the area around the hole. If any plastic pieces are in the way, peel them off or use sandpaper to make the area even. If the surface is uneven, the fiberglass cloth cannot adhere properly.

Step 2

Press the fiberglass cloth against the hole. Cut the cloth to extend 2 inches past the hole. Lay the fiberglass on a piece of flat cardboard. Put on your latex gloves.

Step 3

Mix the epoxy resin and hardener to the manufacturer’s specifications. Ensure the mixture is thin. Dip a paintbrush into the mixture, and begin applying the epoxy to the front of the fiberglass cloth. Coat the cloth completely, but don’t slop the epoxy on; apply enough for a thin coat only.

Step 4

Press the cloth onto the hole. The cloth should hold in place. If it does not, tape it to the washing machine with masking tape. Roll the back of the fiberglass cloth with a squeegee to remove any air bubbles. Wait for the epoxy mixture to harden. Most fiberglass repair kits come with an epoxy resin that dries in less than an hour.

Step 5

Apply a coat of the epoxy mixture on the back of the fiberglass cloth. One light coat is all that’s needed. Once the epoxy dries, the fiberglass and epoxy mixture work together to seal the hole.