One of the easiest tub surrounds to install is a three-piece tub surround. A three-piece tub surround is a prefabricated one-piece shower and bath wall system that wraps around a standard tub or shower space.
This type of surround is composed of a pair of side panels, a back panel and a pre-sized edge trim panel. The side pieces and back pieces snap together, eliminating the need for caulking or silicone.
They can be installed by only one person in about one hour, as the side panels are relatively lightweight and the pieces attach together with a tongue and groove system. In addition, three-piece tub surrounds require very little maintenance and they’re often made from water-resistant materials, making them easy to clean.
Are tub surrounds easy to install?
Yes, tub surrounds are fairly easy to install. The most involved part of the process is cutting the panels to fit the length and width of your bathtub, which needs to be done accurately for a proper fit.
Additionally, it helps to have two people available for the installation process to ensure everything is done correctly and safely. After the panels are cut to the correct size, they are ready to be installed.
The panels are generally secured to the wall using adhesive and/or caulk. To further anchor them and provide a waterproof seal, the panel seams and edges need to be sealed with either silicone caulk or liquid nails.
Afterwards, decorative accessories, such as a soap dish, shelf or storage cubby, can be easily attached to complete the job. All in all, tub surrounds are a relatively easy DIY project that most weekend warriors can accomplish.
Can you put a tub surround over existing tub?
Yes, you can put a tub surround over an existing tub. Depending on the type of tub surround you’re looking for, you may need to make some adjustments to your tub and walls to accommodate the new surround.
For example, if you’re going with a standard acrylic and fiberglass tub surround, you’ll need to make sure the existing tub and walls have a straight, consistent surface to support the installation of the surround.
If the existing surfaces are not quite even, you may need to use a spackle or joint compound to fill any gaps and smooth out any uneven surfaces before installing the surround. Additionally, you may need to use a tub surround trim kit to ensure a water-tight seal between the tub and the walls and tub surround.
What type of tub surround is best?
The best type of tub surround will depend on your personal preference, budget and bathroom decor style. Generally speaking, a sleek, straightforward design of tile is a good choice when it comes to a tub surround.
It is an affordable option that offers customization and is easy to maintain and clean. Tile tub surrounds come in a variety of colors and textures, and they provide a classic look that will last. For a more contemporary look, a solid surface tub surround is an excellent option.
This is a material that can be easily molded into a variety of shapes and colors, and offers excellent durability. Acrylic tub surrounds are also a popular choice, as they are mold and mildew resistant, non-porous and come in a wide range of colors.
Finally, natural stone tub surrounds, such as marble or granite, provide a luxurious look but can be expensive and require more upkeep.
Does a tub surround go over drywall?
Yes, a tub surround can go over drywall. The drywall needs to be in good condition, without any damages or holes. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the drywall is thick enough and properly secured to the wall studs.
If you plan to cover the tub surround with any kind of tile, it’s best to use cement board instead of drywall, since it’s more resistant to moisture. To install the tub surround, start by forming a liquid rubber membrane on the drywall to protect it from water.
Then, attach a wood backing board to the wall with nails or screws. After that, cover the boards with thin-set mortar, then place the tub surround over them. The surround is typically secured with a combination of mastic and screws.
Finally, seal around the edges of the surround with caulk.
What goes behind a tub surround?
When installing a tub surround, the wall area behind the surround must be prepared so that it will be level and water-resistant. This means that any existing drywall must be removed and replaced with a water-resistant material like cement board.
Cement board is installed with screws and adhesive to provide a strong, level base for the tub surround. Ensure that the board is securely fastened so it will not move during the installation process.
Once the cement board is in place, a vapor barrier should go up behind the surround. This will help keep moisture from leaking behind the surround and causing damage to the wall and countertop. Finally, insulation should be added to the back of the tub surround if the space is not air-conditioned, this will help to prevent heat loss and make the space more energy efficient.
Which is better for tubs acrylic or fiberglass?
It depends on what a person is looking for in a tub. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider all the factors before making a final decision. Acrylic is a softer, lighter material than fiberglass, making it easier to install, but it’s also more prone to cracking.
Fiberglass is heavier, more durable, and can be more resistant against cracking, but it can be more difficult to install.
Acrylic is often less expensive but also requires more maintenance than fiberglass, which requires just basic cleaning and upkeep. Acrylic also has a better variety of colors and finishes to choose from, and can be impressed with designs, making it a popular choice for custom-made tubs.
Fiberglass may show wear and discoloration over time, but it is able to withstand more temperatures and is resistant to water-pressure.
In the end, it’s important to consider the features and price of each material, as well as how the tub will be used and its surroundings. Both acrylic and fiberglass tubs can be good options depending on the situation and desired look.
What is the most durable material for a bathtub?
The most durable material for a bathtub is likely acrylic. Acrylic bathtubs are a popular choice for many homeowners as they are exceptionally durable, lightweight and provide superior insulation for your bathroom.
They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes and generally have non-porous surfaces which are easy to clean and maintain. In addition, acrylic bathtubs are resistant to cracks, chips, and mold, which gives them a longer lifespan than other materials.
Other features of acrylic bathtubs include their impressive resistance to stains and damage from corrosive products such as bleach, cleansers and other abrasives. Additionally, they are also not conducive to harboring bacteria due to the non-porous surface.
Although acrylic bathtubs may be slightly more expensive than other materials, their longevity more than makes up for the cost, making them a great choice for any bathroom.
What bathtub material lasts the longest?
The bathtub material that will last the longest is either stone or acrylic. Stone is a very durable and long-lasting material, and it’s heat and stain resistant. It doesn’t scratch or corrode and is relatively easy to clean.
Acrylic tubs are made of a type of plastic and offer a variety of benefits. They are more lightweight than stone and are available in a variety of colors and styles. Acrylic is also a non-porous material, meaning it won’t absorb water or mold, and is also resistant to cracking and fading.
If you’re looking for a material that is both long-lasting and affordable, either of these would be a great choice for you.
Can I install a shower surround myself?
Yes, you can install a shower surround yourself. Depending on the specifics of your project, DIY shower installation can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Make sure that you have a plan in place and the correct tools.
Start by preparing the shower enclosure, which typically involves removing the old shower surround and making necessary adjustments to the area. This can include installing drywall, replacing the subfloor or doing other necessary carpentry work.
Once the area is prepped, install the shower fixtures, followed by the tile or shower surround panels. Finally, grout or caulk the seams and install trim and any other finishing touches. If there are any plumbing or other tasks required, such as installing a drain, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure all the components are installed properly.
Do acrylic tubs crack easily?
No, acrylic tubs do not typically crack easily. When compared to traditional materials such as cast iron and fiberglass, acrylic is much more flexible and resilient. Acrylic tubs also tend to retain their shape and structure.
This makes them less prone to cracking. Of course, like any other material, acrylic can crack if it is damaged, such as if it were incorrectly installed or something dropped on it. Additionally, certain cleaning agents, when used abnormally, can lead to cracking.
However, the majority of acrylic tubs typically retain their structural integrity and remain crack-free for years.
What should you not use on an acrylic tub?
You should not use bleach, caustic cleaners, scouring pads, or anything with strong solvents on an acrylic tub. Doing so can severely damage the surface of the tub and make it discolored, rough, and faded.
Instead, you should use mild liquid cleaners and a soft cloth, sponge, or cleaning brush to clean the tub regularly. When needed, use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove tough stains or soap scum. Always be sure to rinse and dry the tub completely after each use to keep it looking its best.
How much does it cost to have a tub surround installed?
The cost to have a tub surround installed depends on several factors, including the type of tub surround chosen, the complexity of the installation, and the labor costs associated with the installation.
Basic plastic or acrylic tub surrounds typically range from $100 to $350, while more expensive options such as cultured marble or natural stone could range from $700 to $2,000. Installation labor costs vary widely depending on the geographical area, but in many cases, the total cost for labor can range from $200 to $800.
As such, the total cost for a tub surround installation could range from $300 to $2,800 depending on the chosen materials and labor costs.
Is it cheaper to use a tub surround or tile?
When it comes to materials and labor costs, there is no clear-cut answer as to whether it is cheaper to use a tub surround or tile. Including the type of tub surround or tile chosen, installation costs, any necessary repairs, and other considerations.
Generally speaking, pre-made tub surrounds are often less expensive than tiling and require less labor, so they may be a good choice for cost-conscious homeowners. On the other hand, tiling can provide a more aesthetically pleasing end result, and some homeowners may be willing to pay a higher cost for a more permanent and durable solution that may have a longer lifespan.
Whether it is cheaper to use a tub surround or tile in your bathroom project ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
How do you modernize an old bathtub?
Modernizing an old bathtub can be an exciting and relatively simple process, depending on the desired outcome. One popular choice is to refinish the existing bathtub by sanding away any rust or corrosion and then applying a fresh coat of epoxy coating.
This coating generally lasts for up to seven years and provides a glossy, updated look to the tub.
Another option for modernizing an old bathtub is to replace it entirely with a new model. This is a more involved and expensive option, as it generally requires hiring a professional plumber to disconnect existing pipes and install the new tub.
Though this process is more involved than simply refinishing the tub, it affords the opportunity to choose a newer model with additional features and styles.
Yet a third option is to encapsulate an existing bathtub with a new, modern liner. Liners are made from a variety of materials and textures and can cover the tub in a custom fit. Generally, installation for a liner requires professional help to ensure it is properly airtight and watertight, and the overall process is generally less expensive than a full replacement.
In order to modernize an old bathtub, a homeowner can choose from a variety of strategies. Refinishing, replacement, and lining are all excellent options, depending on the desired outcome and budget.
A professional plumber can usually help with any of these processes, ensuring a fresh and updated look to the bathtub.