Yes, you can put a fiberglass tub surround over tile. However, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure the surround is installed correctly. First, you need to remove any caulk or sealant that might be present between the surround and tile.
This will help prevent moisture from seeping through the grout joints and causing damage. Then you need to make sure the tile surface is even, clean, and with no loose tiles. If necessary, use a grout saw to level out the areas with large grout lines.
Finally, apply an adhesive to the back of the fiberglass surround before securing it in place. After installation, you should caulk any gaps between the surround and the tile to help prevent rotting and water damage.
Can I glue a tub surround over existing tile?
Yes, you can glue a tub surround over existing wall tile. However, it is important to make sure that the wall is completely clean before you start the installation. You should use a bleach and water mixture to thoroughly clean the tile before you begin installation.
Be sure to let the wall dry completely before you start the gluing process. It is also important to make sure that the tile surface is completely flat before you start the installation. If the tile has any raised areas, you may need to fill them in with a cement-based patching product.
Once the surface is clean and dry and smooth, you may start to glue the tub surround to the wall tile. Make sure to press firmly and evenly on the tub surround to ensure that it adheres well. Once the installation is complete, it is important to seal the seams with a good quality sealant.
Can you put shower walls over tile?
Yes, you can put shower walls over tile. This can be a great way to update a dated look while avoiding the cost and potential mess of tearing out the existing tile. When installing new tile walls, you’ll need to ensure that the existing tiles are securely bonded to the wall underneath, so it is important to check for any loose tiles or areas that may need to be patched or repaired.
In addition, you’ll need to make sure the substrate (surface behind the tile) is completely sealed to help keep moisture out and protect the new walls from rot or mildew. After all preparation is complete, you’ll need to measure and install a moisture barrier before placing the walls.
Once the materials are in place, use thinset and a trowel to affix the new walls, making sure to press firmly to ensure a good bond. Once the walls are installed, you can grout with a flexible grout to help avoid cracking over time.
This type of project should be done with care and attention to detail to avoid any future issues.
Can you install a bathtub over tile?
Yes, you can install a bathtub over tile. To do so, you’ll need to prepare the area by removing the existing tile and any other materials, like grout or thinset. Make sure to inspect the subflooring and replace any damaged pieces.
After removing the tile, use a waterproof membrane adhesive to install a vapor barrier with a plastic sheeting over the subfloor. Attach foamboard over the plastic sheeting, then cut the foamboard to fit the area.
Install the bathtub and its supplied hardware, including a flange around the bathtub’s base. Place mortar over the foamboard and fasten the flange to the mortar with nails. Allow the mortar to dry, then add another layer of mortar over the flange until it’s level with the top of the bathtub.
Finally, apply caulk and grout to seal the area and complete the installation.
How can I cover my shower tiles without removing them?
Covering your shower tiles without removing them can be done by applying a tile paint. This type of paint is a special epoxy-based paint specifically designed to stick to tile surfaces. It can be applied directly over existing tiles, and comes in a variety of colors to choose from.
This paint not only serves to cover unsightly tiles but also adds a layer of waterproof protection. Preparing your tile surface before painting is critical for optimal results. This includes gently scrubbing with a mild detergent and warm water to remove soapy residue, buildup of oils and any existing water spots.
If there any loose or chipped sections, these should be sanded away and filled in with epoxy filler before painting. Once properly prepared, the surface should be rinsed before the tile paint is applied.
The paint can be either applied with a paintbrush or roller for a uniform surface. The tile paint should be allowed to dry for at least three days before using the surface.
What can go over a tile shower?
It is important to ensure that any product used to go over a tiled shower is appropriate for use in bathrooms and will not cause damage to the tiles or create a safety hazard. A shower curtain is a common choice and is generally easy to install.
It is important to ensure that the material is water-resistant and can be easily cleaned. Also, the weight of the curtain should be taken into consideration, as heavy curtains can cause damage to tile walls.
Another option for going over a tile shower is a shower door or enclosure. A framed shower door is a classic style and usually made of glass or metal. The frame can be powder coated in a variety of colors to match any design aesthetic.
Frameless door enclosures are also becoming increasingly popular, which feature tempered glass and very minimal frame. They are more expensive than framed doors but add a more sophisticated look.
For more decorative solutions, a shower curtain can be installed over the shower door or enclosure for a subtle look. Finally, for a less permanent option, there are shower screens or panels which are designed to partially or fully enclose the shower space.
They often use lightweight materials with minimal frames and come in a variety of styles and colors.
Can you waterproof over tiles and retile?
Yes, it is possible to waterproof over tiles and retile. This is general practice when remodeling or updating a bathroom or kitchen, especially when the existing tiles are in decent shape. However, it is important to properly prep the existing tile and apply the waterproofing membrane so that the new tiles will adhere and hold up over time.
In general, the process involves thoroughly cleaning the existing tile so that it is free of any contaminants, ensuring any grout lines are filled in properly, and applying a waterproofing membrane such as tile primer to the tile and substrate.
Once the primer is dry, it is then possible to re-tile. When tiling over a waterproof membrane, use a thin-set mortar adhesive specifically designed for this purpose and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
Because each tiling job is different, it is important to seek the advice of a professional to ensure that the job is done correctly. Additionally, it is a good idea to conduct a test spot to make sure the tiles are going to adhere properly to the membrane and that the job is done correctly the first time.
Can you use regular drywall in a tiled shower?
No, regular drywall is not suitable for installation in a tiled shower. Regular drywall is designed for areas that do not come into contact with moisture and prolonged exposure to water can cause water damage that is not preventable.
Using regular drywall in a tiled shower is not recommended and could lead to the drywall becoming soft and eventually becoming a breeding ground for mold. The best option is to use cement board or a water-resistant drywall such as greenboard, blueboard, or permabase.
These materials are designed to be water resistant and long-lasting, but should still be sealed and caulked before tiling over them to ensure maximum protection. Additionally, all of the materials should be allowed to cure completely before tiling begins.
If a water-resistant material is not used, there is a risk of water and humidity damaging the drywall and leading to costly repairs.
What goes behind tub surround?
The material that goes behind a tub surround will depend on the type of material used to create the surround itself. If you are using a tiled surround, then the material behind it should be cement board.
This provides a stable surface for the tiling to attach to and also helps to create a waterproof barrier. If you are using a plastic surround, then the best option would be to use a piece of constructed plywood.
This should be pre-treated to prevent water damage and also provide a stable base for the surround to attach to. Once you have the correct material in place, you can complete the tub surround installation according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Which backer board is for showers?
The most common backer board used in showers is cement board, such as HardieBacker or Durock. Cement board is extremely durable and water resistant, making it ideal for wet areas like showers. Cement boards are made from durable cement and sand, reinforced with mesh for added strength and stability.
The boards come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, allowing for custom cut pieces that fit most showers. The boards can easily be cut with a utility knife or circular saw, and then screwed into the wall studs using galvanized screws.
Cement board should also be sealed with a waterproofing membrane, such as an acrylic sealer or urethane sealant, to further protect the shower from moisture.
What is waterproof drywall called?
Waterproof drywall is typically referred to as cement board. Cement board is a type of drywall made from Portland cement, resin and glass mesh and is often referred to as “Wonder Board” or “Durock”. Cement board is a great option for areas exposed to moisture, such as showers, tub surrounds, and kitchens.
It also adds additional support for walls that need to handle heavy items such as mounted TVs and cabinets. Compared to traditional drywall, cement board is more waterproof, mold resistant and durable.
It’s also fire-resistant and provides exceptional impact resistance. Cement board is typically sold in 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch thicknesses in 3-by-5-foot and 4-by-8-foot sizes, which are ideal for wall installation.
What do you put under a fiberglass tub to support it?
When installing a fiberglass tub, it is essential to make sure that it is firmly supported to prevent movement when the tub is filled with water and throughout its lifetime. As such, it is important to properly prepare the space to securely hold the tub.
This may include using wood blocking or a steel frame to support the weight of the tub, as well as any additional accessories such as shower bases, walls, and drains. The frameless tub edge should rest on a 1×4 or 1×6 horizontal ledger board, which is securely fastened to wall studs.
If needed, additional support is often necessary to ensure that the fiberglass tub has a strong foundation. Depending on the situation, you may need to bolt together and seal metal angle-irons and use them to provide extra support or even use metal pipe and hang it off the floor joists.
In most cases, a combination of materials, such as metal and wood, are used for maximum support. In all cases, use heavy-duty screws made for outdoor applications, so they will endure in humidity and wet conditions.
Finally, any and all support materials should be inspected regularly to ensure that they are still secure and in good condition.
Do you need drywall behind a tub surround?
Yes, you need drywall behind a tub surround. Drywall is important because it helps protect the framing behind the surround from moisture, warping, and rot. It also helps with sound-proofing to ensure your bathroom remains peaceful and serene.
Additionally, most tub surrounds require a backer board or some other form of water-resistant material installed behind it to ensure the surround stays firmly in place, which is why many prefer to have a layer of drywall installed behind it.
When installing drywall, make sure to use a tile-backer board like cement backer-board or a mold-resistant drywall that meets ASTM C630 standards. Additionally, make sure to seal all the edges, tape them with mesh drywall tape, and coat them with two layers of joint compound for optimal water protection.
Can you install a tub surround without drywall?
Yes, you can install a tub surround without drywall. Such as tiling, using waterproof backboard, or using a direct-to-stud tub surround.
Tiling is a great option for those looking for a more aesthetically pleasing look. You can tile the walls and also tile the ceiling as well. However, this is a more labor and time-intensive approach and more costly overall.
Using waterproof backboard is a more affordable and less time-consuming way to do an installation. Backboard is a two-layer paneling system engineered to protect the walls and provide a waterproof barrier.
The boards are simply lined up and then fastened to the wall studs with screws.
A direct-to-stud tub surround is a great option for those who want a fast and easy installation. This design uses panels that come with integrated corner pieces and can be directly attached to the wall studs.
This is an ideal choice for those who want a quick and easy installation.
No matter which approach you choose, make sure you follow manufacturer instructions and take all necessary safety precautions to ensure a long-lasting and safe installation.
How to update bathroom tiles on a budget?
Updating bathroom tiles on a budget doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable ways to give your bathroom a much-needed makeover and freshen up the look of your tiles.
One affordable option is to paint your existing tiles. This is a great way to give your bathroom a facelift without having to buy new tiles. Just make sure you use a bathroom-specific paint and prep the tiles properly before applying the paint.
This includes cleaning the tiles and applying a primer to ensure that the paint will adhere properly. You can add a design or pattern if you are feeling creative.
Another budget-friendly option to update bathroom tiles is to opt for tile decals. These are an affordable way to give your bathroom a new look, as tile decals usually cost much less than new tiles. Tile decals are also easy to install and come in a variety of colors and styles to choose from.
This can help to refresh and add character to your bathroom tiles.
For a more permanent fix, consider re-grouting your bathroom tiles. This is a much more economical option than replacing the tiles, as you’ll just need to buy new grout and sealant. Make sure that you follow the necessary steps when re-grouting, such as cleaning and drying the tiles before applying the grout and sealant.
This will ensure that the grout adheres properly and that your bathroom tiles last as long as possible.
Finally, you could also look into replacing some of your tiles. This is the most expensive option of all, but it can still be done without going over budget. Consider shopping around for second-hand tiles or on discount websites to save money.
You should also look into alternative materials, such as marble boards, which may be less expensive than traditional tiles.
There are plenty of budget-friendly options for updating bathroom tiles. From painting and decals to re-grouting and replacing some tiles, you can give your bathroom a much-needed makeover without having to spend too much money.