When it comes to decorating the walls around a bathtub, the possibilities are endless! The most common choice is to simply paint the walls with a color of your choice, but you could also choose to wallpaper the walls or install tile.
If your style is more eclectic, you can hang mirrors and/or artwork, hang shelves, add decorative molding, or display plants. If you prefer some more functional accents, try installing a tension rod with curtains to enhance your privacy.
Incorporating a few floating shelves would also be a good way to add additional storage space in your bathroom. If you’re looking for something a bit more dramatic, consider installing a shower niche for housing your shampoo and shower products, or even a statement tile wall or ceiling that provides a unique, eye-catching visual piece.
However you choose to decorate, it’s important to choose something that won’t be affected by moisture or humidity from regular baths, showers, or steam.
What is the material for bathtub surrounds?
The most common material for bathtub surrounds is tile, and often times the same tile that is used for the bathroom’s existing floor. In addition to tiles, acrylic, shower wall panels made of laminate, and cultured marble are popular choices for tub surrounds, depending on the desired look and your budget.
Tiles come in a variety of materials, such as ceramic and natural stone, and in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They can be used to create intricate patterns and designs to make the bathroom look more ornate.
While tiles are a timeless classic and often considered the most luxurious option, they do require upkeep, since grout can tend to break down over time.
Acrylic is a more affordable way to go, and there are many different styles and colors to choose from. Its smooth texture and easier maintenance make it an attractive option.
Shower wall panels, made of laminate, are a modern and convenient option, as they are easy to install and can be quickly wiped down for cleaning. They are also very customizable with many materials and colors to choose from.
Cultured marble is a slightly more expensive option and can be used to create walls and shelving that match the vanity top or sink. It is relatively low-maintenance, however it can scratch easily, so it is best to avoid abrasive cleaners and scrubbing pads.
What can I put on my bathroom walls instead of tiles?
Some great non-tiling options to consider for your bathroom walls are: tile board panels, wall murals, stone, marble, mosaics, wallpaper, bead board, faux brick, magnetic paint, stainless steel wall panels, reclaimed wood, and even fabric.
Tile board panels are chip- and moisture-resistant, making them a good choice for bathrooms. They come in a variety of styles and colors, including faux marble and stone, and realistically imitate traditional tiles.
If you have a larger budget, wall murals come in a variety of styles and can bring a unique and personalized touch to your bathroom. Stone, marble, and mosaics are timeless options for creating a luxury look in your bathroom, and are often more affordable than people anticipate.
Wallpaper, bead board, and faux brick can also evoke a unique and stylish atmosphere, as well as provide texture, whereas magnetic paint and stainless steel wall panels help make for an interesting and cost-effective alternative to other options.
For an eye-catching, rustic-chic look, consider using reclaimed wood, or, if you’d like a softer feel, fabric can be used as wall art panels in your bathroom. No matter what you decide to go with, your walls are sure to look amazing.
How do you waterproof a wall around a bathtub?
Waterproofing a wall around a bathtub involves taking steps to protect the wall from water infiltration and damage. The first step is to clean the wall of any dirt and debris, then install a vapor barrier such as a layer of 6 mil plastic sheeting on the wall to protect it from water vapor.
Next, a cementitious waterproofing product, such as Red Guard or Novalink, should be applied with a paint roller or trowel. It should be applied within a day or two after applying the vapor barrier and be allowed to cure for 24-48 hours before applying any additional layers.
After the waterproofing layer has cured, a sealant should be applied to all external joints, seams, or cracks in the wall, such as tub corners, sink faucets, or backsplash sections. Once the sealant has had time to dry, a second layer of waterproofing should be applied.
This layer should be allowed to dry thoroughly before adding any tiles or grout. Finally, a quality grout and tile adhesive should be used to install any tiles or other finishings around the bathtub.
Following these steps should effectively waterproof the wall around your bathtub and help protect it from significant water infiltration and damage.
How can I cover my bathroom walls cheaply?
One of the best and most cost effective ways to cover up your bathroom walls is to use wallpaper. There are so many different options depending on your budget and style, including self-adhesive contact paper, repositionable wallpaper, fabric-backed vinyl wallpaper, or even traditional paper wallpaper.
With self-adhesive contact paper, you can cover up all your walls in one easy step and it is also quite affordable. Repositionable wallpaper, on the other hand, is slightly more expensive but it allows for more intricate designs and comes in many unique and stylish designs.
Fabric-backed vinyl wallpaper is a great way to get a more professional look and also lasts longer due to its waterproof properties. Of course, if you’re looking to get a really professional looking finish, then traditional paper wallpaper is your best option, although it may take more time to install and also cost more money.
But don’t forget, whichever option you decide, make sure to line up each sheet of wallpaper carefully to ensure perfect coverage.
What can be used instead of tiles?
These can include things like wood paneling, stone veneers, wood or stone laminates, wallpaper, fabric, wall and floor coverings made from cork, bamboo, grasscloth, and other natural materials, and metallic finishes like stainless steel or aluminum.
Vinyl is also popular for floor and wall coverings, and is available in a variety of patterns and colors. Another great option is painting, which can be custom colored as well as be used to create unique textures with special painting techniques.
For a higher-end look, plaster or stucco are also used on walls and ceilings.
Can you put peel and stick on bathroom wall?
Yes, you can put peel and stick on bathroom walls. Peel and stick is a type of adhesive that has a sticky backing that can easily be applied to any surface. Peel and stick is often used in areas like bathrooms and kitchens, as it can quickly and easily create a splash of color and style.
It is also a great way to temporarily enhance the look of an area, as it can be easily removed and changed. When applying peel and stick to bathroom walls, it is important to ensure that the surface is clean and dry to get the best and most durable result.
Additionally, it is important to choose a product that is suitable for the environment and that is waterproof, as bathrooms tend to be damp and humid.
How can I update my bathroom without removing tiles?
Updating a bathroom without removing tiles is easy and can be achieved in a few simple steps:
1. Start by giving your tiles a deep clean. Scrub hard to remove any dirt, mold, mildew or other debris that has built up over the years. This can be done with a scrub brush and some soapy water.
2. Repaint the walls if they are looking a bit drab. Choose a bright, fresh color to bring new life to the room. Make sure to use a paint specifically made for use in bathrooms and be sure to use a sealer to protect the walls from moisture.
3. Replace all of your faucets and fixtures with more modern ones. This can be done easily with a few simple tools and doesn’t require you to remove any tiles. Consider replacing any worn out, outdated knobs and handles with new modern ones.
4. Switch out light fixtures and switchplates. You can find a variety of stylish options to help give your bathroom a facelift without having to remove or replace any tiles.
5. Replace the hardware on vanities and cabinets. If your bathroom is a bit dated, replacing hardware with something more modern can make a big difference, instantly updating the look and feel of the room.
6. Accessorize. Add some stylish and modern accessories such as a new shower curtain, bathmat, towels and other decorative items. Doing this will give your bathroom a new, contemporary look without having to remove any of the tile.
Is it outdated to tile bathroom walls?
No, tiling bathroom walls is certainly not outdated. In fact, tile is one of the most common bathroom wall covering materials due to its versatility and durability. Tile is available in a variety of colors, shapes, and textures, making it an ideal choice for many bathrooms.
Tiled walls are easy to clean and maintain, as they are moisture-resistant and can withstand many cleaning chemicals and products. As well, tile can last for decades when cared for properly, adding to its cost-effectiveness money saving in the long run.
Tiling can be used to express personal style, whether you prefer classic subway tiles or more intricate patterns and mosaics. Ultimately, the choice between tiling or any other covering material depends on individual preferences and budget, but tiling is still a popular choice for bathroom walls.
Do peel and stick tiles last in bathroom?
Yes, peel and stick tiles can be a good long-term option for bathrooms. They are typically made of durable materials such as vinyl that can hold up against moisture and staining, and they’re designed with special backing that makes them water-resistant and prevents them from shrinking, curling, or bubbling.
Most peel and stick tiles are also more resistant to mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues than traditional ceramic tiles. Additionally, the adhesive used for peel and stick tiles is made to be extra strong, so you can be sure that the tiles won’t fall off due to humidity or heat.
All of these factors combine to make peel and stick tiles a great option for bathrooms, as they are designed to last.
How do I make my bathroom walls water resistant?
The best way to make your bathroom walls water resistant is to apply a waterproof sealant or paint. A variety of products are available for this purpose and you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
For example, an acrylic sealant will provide a semi-permanent, water-resistant barrier that dries quickly. This type of product is usually resistant to mold and mildew, as well as grease and dirt buildup.
If you’re looking for a product with greater durability, a polyurethane paint or sealant is probably your best choice. These products are waterproof, and they’re often applied with a roller or brush.
For optimal protection, it’s always a good idea to test the product on a small area of the wall before applying it to the entire surface. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the product, as incorrect application may lead to water damage.
Some products require multiple coats and can take several hours or days to dry completely. It’s also important to apply sealant to any areas of the wall that are exposed to excess moisture, such as corners and along areas where the wall meets the floor.
Regular maintenance and cleaning can greatly extend the life of your waterproof sealant or paint.
Do you need to waterproof a tub surround?
Yes, it is important to waterproof a tub surround to help protect it against water damage. There are a variety of different methods to waterproof a tub surround including applying a special waterproof paint, using a spray-on waterproof liner, or adding a sheet membrane.
Each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, so it is important to consult with a professional to help determine the best option for your particular needs. If you choose to use a waterproof paint, it will need to be applied to all surfaces of the tub surround that will be in contact with any water.
If you use a spray-on liner, it should be applied in multiple layers and must be allowed to properly dry in between applications. When adding a sheet membrane to the tub surround, make sure to completely seal the edges with a waterproof caulk and fill any seams or holes with a waterproof sealant.
Although waterproofing a tub surround can be quite time consuming, it is definitely worth the effort to help protect your tub and the surrounding area from water damage.
How do you seal where tile meets a bathtub?
To seal where tile meets a bathtub, it is important to use a non-sanded grout. This grout is especially formulated to provide a waterproof seal and should be chosen based on the type of tile being used.
After the tile has been installed around the bathtub, grout can be applied in between the tiles to seal the seams. It is important to use a tool such as a specialty grout float and make sure to smooth the grout into all the edges.
Once it is smoothed and excess grout is wiped away, it should be left to dry for around 24 hours. Finally, a grout sealer can be applied to protect the grout and ensure a waterproof seal between the tile and bathtub.
This grout should also be left to dry overnight before use. Following these steps will ensure a proper seal and waterproof protection.
How do you finish edges of tub tiles?
finishing the edges of tub tiles is an important part of a finished tiling job. It is essential to have aesthetically pleasing finished edges, as tiles in a bathroom often act as accents in the decor of the room.
The first step to finishing the edges of tub tiles is to identify the material of the tiles. If the tiles are ceramic or porcelain, they will likely require a bullnose trim. This is a piece of ceramic that matches the tiles and is installed on the very edge of the tub perimeter.
Bullnose trim pieces can be found in the same size and color of the tile, and are typically fairly inexpensive.
If the tub tiles are natural stone, such as marble or granite, a different type of trim should be used. For these stones, a pencil trim is the most common choice. Pencil trim pieces are usually made of the same material as the tiles, so the color and texture will match.
Also, they are typically very thin and installed on the outside edge of the tiles.
For tubs with no tiled walls, a simple tile trim can be used. This type of trim piece is made of metal and is generally installed on the edge of the tub. It will provide a nice finished look, and it is often available in different colors.
Finally, it is important to use a good quality mortar and grout when finishing the edges of tub tiles. It is the glue that holds the tiles together, and it can be difficult to remove if too much is used.
Make sure to use the proper amount of mortar and grout when installing the trim pieces, and make sure to wipe any extra away from the tiles before it dries. With these steps, you will be sure to have a finished edge that looks great and lasts for years to come.
How do I fill the gap around my tub?
To fill the gap around your tub, you’ll need to use a flexible caulk. Start by cleaning the area around the gap to make sure that it is free of dirt and debris. Once it’s clean, use a utility knife or sharp putty knife to gently remove any old caulk or paint that might be present.
Then, using a caulk gun, apply a bead of flexible caulk around the gap. Start by applying a thin bead around the edges, then run a thicker bead through the center. Once the caulk is in place, use a caulk finishing tool or your finger to spread it evenly, making sure to press it into the gap.
Allow the caulk to dry completely before using the tub or shower.