When installing a fiberglass tub unit, what issue may arise from bending?

When installing a fiberglass tub unit, bending the material can lead to hidden cracks, which can severely compromise the integrity and longevity of the unit. Fiberglass is a composite material that is reinforced with fiberglass strands, and when it is subjected to bending or stress beyond its design limits, it can develop micro-cracks that are not immediately visible. These hidden cracks can later lead to water seepage, weakening of the structure, or more significant failures over time.

While leaks can occur with improper installation, it is the hidden cracks that are particularly insidious because they may not show signs of wear until damage has already been done. Poor insulation and color fading are not typically direct consequences of bending and are unrelated to the immediate structural concerns posed by bending a fiberglass tub.