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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Pitted Bathtub Chrome

Have lived in our new Phoenix Az home two(2) months. Just noticed the chrome pitting on the tub spout. We use a "hang-up bathtub tile cleaner. Could this be the culprit? Is there anything I can do to stop the pitting?

Dr. Margaret Longenecker
- Goodyear, Arizona
August 28, 2008

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Yes, it is very probable. There is no good way to stop pitting after it starts. You may have a warranty on the part for free replacement. I would not talk about using the spray cleaner.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
August 29, 2008

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

I'm not certain about your hang-up cleaner, but if it contains any active chlorine disinfectant, it will certainly accelerate corrosion. Even if the active ingredients are benign, if it drips on the chrome plated fixtures and keeps them damp for extended time, corrosion will be accelerated.

Chrome plating lasts longest when kept clean and dry.

It is also true that there some fixtures which have thin or poorly done plating, and others which are of much better quality.

Jeffrey Holmes, CEF
Spartanburg, South Carolina
August 29, 2008