Easy Guide: Installing Plastic Bath Panel Clips

how to fit plastic bath panel clips

Bath panels are used to hide the underside of a bathtub, which is often unfinished. They are usually made of acrylic or wood and can be easily installed. Before installing a new bath panel, it is important to measure the space accurately and cut the panel to size if necessary. The process of fitting plastic bath panel clips involves positioning the clips underneath the top edge of the tub, with the screw hole facing inward and the humped part facing down. The panel is then pushed into place, sliding under the edge of the tub and securing it with the clips. It is important to ensure that the panel is level and secure before finalizing the installation.

shunpoly

Prepare the bath panel by cutting it to size, if necessary

Before installing a bath panel, it is important to prepare it by cutting it to size, if necessary. This ensures a clean and tidy finish that hides the underside of your tub.

First, measure the length and height of your tub. Use a tape measure and run it along the top edge of the bath where the panel will go. Then, measure from the floor up to just under the top edge of the bath. These measurements will give you the length and height needed for your bath panel.

If you are installing a wooden panel, it is recommended to have a wooden plinth, which allows you to adjust the height and assists with any slanting. You can fit the plinth behind the panel to add depth or in front to create a "skirting" look.

Next, cut the bath panel to size with a handsaw. If you are using a wooden slab, you may need to trim the edge to place it properly on an uneven floor. Additionally, trim the surface of the panels if they need to fit around pipes or a skirting board. Ensure that any trimming is done at the end closer to the wall, and apply a coating to protect the trimmed area from moisture and decay.

If you are installing a corner bath panel, you will need to cut the floor batten and plinth at the open end to allow for the end panel to be fitted.

Once your bath panel is cut to size, you can proceed with the installation, using clips or other methods to secure it in place.

shunpoly

Measure the space between the underside of the bath and the floor

Before you start fitting your plastic bath panel, it's important to measure the space between the underside of the bath and the floor. This will ensure that your new panel fits perfectly and securely. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, grab your measuring tape and run it along the top edge of the bath, where the panel will be placed. This measurement will give you the required length of the panel. Next, measure from the floor up to just under the top edge of the bath. This will give you the required height.

Now, you'll want to prepare the wooden slab that will be attached to the bottom of the panel. Measure the space between the underside of the bath rim and the floor using your measuring tape. Cut the wooden slab to fit this space. If your floor is uneven, you may need to trim the slab accordingly.

Once you have the measurements, attach the wooden slab to the bottom of the panel towards the back. Use a 12mm screw to secure it in place. This will ensure the panel sits securely and at the correct height.

By taking these measurements and attaching the wooden slab, you'll ensure that your plastic bath panel fits snugly and securely in place, creating a seamless finish for your bathtub.

shunpoly

Attach a slab to the bottom of the panel

Bath panels are used to hide the underside of a bathtub, which is often unfinished. They are usually made of acrylic or wood and are straightforward to install.

Before installing a bath panel, it is important to ensure that the panel fits without the clips in place. If the panel fits, the next step is to attach a slab to the bottom of the panel.

First, measure the space between the underside of the bath rim and the floor using a measuring tape. Next, get a slab, preferably a wooden slab, and attach it to the bottom of the panel towards the back. Fit the slab into the space you measured earlier using a 12mm screw. Drill three holes, each 12mm from the edge, at the lower edge of the slab. Then, drill two holes at each end of the panel, also 12mm from the edge, to align with the batten.

If the floor is uneven, you may need to trim the edge of the wooden slab with a saw so that it sits properly. If the panel needs to fit around pipes or a skirting board, trim the surface of the panel as needed.

shunpoly

Secure the panel to the bath using the clips

To secure the panel to the bath using the clips, start by placing the panel into the opening on the side of the bath. Tip it under the top edge and slide it into place at the bottom. Ensure that the panel fits without the clips in place first.

Next, find the clips that came with your panelling. Position a clip underneath the tub's upper edge with the opening of the clip facing out and the flat side of the clip up against the underside of the tub edge. Hold the clip in place and drill a screw into the clip's hole to attach it to the tub. Place at least one clip in the middle and one on each end.

Push the panel into place using the clips. Slide the panel towards the tub, ensuring that it is even on both ends. The top of the panel will slide just under the edge of the tub. Listen for a "clicking" noise as the panel fits into place. Press gently on various parts of the panel to ensure it's secure.

Alternatively, you can attach the clips to wooden blocks on the underside of the bath rim. The panel is then held in place between the clip and the block.

shunpoly

Seal the panel with silicone to prevent water damage

To prevent water damage, seal the panel with silicone. This is an essential step to ensure that the area is fully waterproofed and to prevent rot and mould.

Firstly, you will need to purchase a sanitary silicone sealant. This type of sealant is specifically designed to resist large amounts of water and is more resistant to damp environments. It is also mould-resistant.

Before applying the silicone sealant, ensure that the area is completely dry and free of dust. This will allow the sealant to adhere properly. You should also remove any old or cracked silicone with a utility knife and cover the surrounding area with painter's tape.

Once the area is prepared, carefully squeeze the caulking gun until a small amount of sealant appears. Continue applying pressure as you line up the sealant with the desired crevice. Repeat this process until the area is covered, using beads of sealant about the length of a pencil.

Finally, remove the painter's tape and allow the silicone to dry completely.

Frequently asked questions

First, ensure that the panel fits without the clips in place. Next, position a clip on one of the wooden pads found on the underside of the bath lip. The screw hole should be facing the inner side and the humped part facing downwards. Screw the clips into place underneath the top edge of the tub.

Try loosening the clips and then insert the panel. If you need to, you can always use a bead of silicone on the base and sides of the panel instead of clips.

If you don't want to use clips, you can use a bath panel fixing kit or build a wooden frame for sturdier panels.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment