Omar Khalid
Installing a plastic bathtub surround is a great way to refresh the look of your bathroom without breaking the bank. Bathtub surrounds are available in a variety of materials, including plastic, acrylic, and fiberglass, and can be installed as a DIY project with the right tools and some basic plumbing and carpentry knowledge. The process involves removing the old tub and shower, preparing the wall surface, applying adhesive to attach the panels, sealing the joints, and finishing the plumbing. With a range of price points and installation methods, bathtub surrounds offer a simple solution to transform your bathroom and protect it from water damage.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the installation area
Before installing a plastic bathtub surround, there are several steps you should take to prepare the installation area.
First, you should remove the spout, faucet handles, and any accessories, such as a soap dish or grab bar. If you are working with a bathtub, cover it with a drop cloth to prevent chips or scratches during installation. Next, if you currently have tile, it is recommended that you remove it before installing the bathtub surround to prevent mould growth. Wear a face mask and protective clothing when removing tiles. If you encounter mould, scrub it away and let the area dry thoroughly before covering it with insulation and a vapour barrier.
After removing any tiles, repair any damaged spots on the walls. To ensure that the surround properly bonds to the wall, clean the walls and apply a primer to the backer board. Let the walls dry. If you are installing a shower surround, install the shower pan first.
If you are installing a direct-to-stud surround, you will need to strip the walls down to the studs around where the surround will sit. This may require a pry bar and reciprocating saw, depending on the type of wall surface. It is often best to cut out an area of the wall slightly larger than the surround to make it easier to anchor the flanges to the studs.
Finally, measure the approximate length and width of your existing bathtub, adding about 3/4 inch extra at each wall. Your measurement should be close to one of the standard tub sizes, which are typically 5 feet long and 30 inches wide. Shop for a surround kit that matches this size.
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Apply adhesive to the panels
When applying adhesive to the panels, it is important to work methodically and quickly. The adhesive should be applied to the back of each panel, and you should only apply adhesive to one section at a time. Use a trowel to spread the adhesive over the entire surface of the panel, keeping it inside the lines.
Once the adhesive is applied, you will need to work quickly so that the adhesive does not have time to develop a skin. Position the panel on the wall, lining up your lines as you want them, and press it to the wall. Then, carefully pull the panel away from the wall for about one to three minutes—this will activate the adhesive properly. After this time, re-apply the panel to the wall and press it firmly in place.
Clean up any excess adhesive with mineral spirits and a damp rag. You can use masking tape to help hold some edges tight until the adhesive dries. The drying time is typically around 6-12 hours, but you should always check the manufacturer's instructions for exact drying times.
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$370
$489.99
Install the panels
Before installing the panels, ensure that you have prepared the wall surface. The wall should be dry, mould-free, and in good condition. If you are installing a direct-to-stud surround, you may need to strip the walls down to the studs. If you are installing an adhesive-type surround, you may need to remove existing tiles, repair any damaged spots on the walls, and apply a primer to the backerboard.
When installing the panels, start with the back wall panel. Position the panel on the tub and level it, ensuring that it fits properly against the walls and the edge of the tub. Drill pilot holes through the surround's flanges and use nails or screws to secure the panel in place.
For the final panel, which contains the plumbing fixtures, you will need to drill holes for the tub or shower valve and the tub spout. Measure carefully and transfer these measurements to the panel. Select the appropriate hole saw bit and set the drill to rotate in reverse to prevent the teeth from ripping the panel. Drill the holes in the panel and install the faucet valve and tub spout.
Apply adhesive to the perimeter of the panel, across its centre, and around each opening. Slide the panel over the spout pipe and faucet, arching the bottom of the panel against the wall. Apply gradual upward pressure until the entire panel is stuck in place. Finish by installing the tub spout and faucet trim, using the manufacturer-supplied adhesive caulk to fill the gaps between the walls and panels.
Once the panels are attached, seal the joints with silicone or caulk. Allow the sealant to dry for at least 12 hours before using the shower or tub.
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Seal the joints
Sealing the joints is an important step in installing a plastic bathtub surround, as it helps to prevent leaks and water damage. Here is a detailed guide on how to seal the joints effectively:
Before sealing, ensure that the wall surface is dry, mould-free, and in good condition. It is recommended to paint the walls before installing the tub surround. Once the tub surround is installed, apply a bead of silicone sealant to all the joints in the panels. This includes the seams between the panels and the top edges where the tub meets the surround. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time, which is typically around 12 hours.
When working with the plumbing fixtures, such as the faucet valve and tub spout, carefully drill holes in the surround panel using a drill and hole saw. Choose the appropriate size of the hole saw bit to accommodate the trim screws and shower valve. After drilling, spread a bead of silicone around the edge of each hole to create a watertight seal.
For the fixture seams, such as the joint between the tub and the surround, use a small tube of white kitchen-and-bath silicone caulk. This type of caulk is specifically designed for use in wet areas and will provide a durable seal. Allow the caulk to dry completely before using the shower or tub, following the manufacturer's recommended drying time.
By following these steps and allowing adequate drying time, you can ensure that the joints in your plastic bathtub surround are properly sealed, preventing leaks and maintaining the integrity of your installation.
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Finish the plumbing
Once you have installed the bathtub and the wall panels, you can finish the plumbing. This is the final step of the installation process and involves the following:
First, spread a bead of silicone around the edge of each hole in the surround and install the faucet plate and tub spout. Be careful not to bow the surround inward when tightening. Next, cut the new drain line and overflow to length and hook them up to the P-trap and tub. Before you begin this step, ensure that you have some experience working with plumbing and P-traps.
Then, run water into the tub to test for leaks. If you find any leaks, you may need to apply a sealant or caulk to the affected areas and let it dry before running another test. Finally, if you are installing a shower surround, remember to install the shower pan first.
After completing the plumbing, you can apply a final silicone sealant to the joints and along the top edges of the tub where it meets the surround panels. Allow the silicone to dry for at least 12 hours before using the shower or tub.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to measure the length and width of your existing bathtub, allowing about 3/4 inch extra at each wall.
After measuring, shop for a tub surround at home centres or kitchen and bath speciality stores.
The final step is to seal all the joints with caulk and let it dry for 12 to 24 hours before using the tub or shower.
