Installing a Tub Surround Made Easy By Illa Maden Platinum Quality Author

Installing a tub surround can reclaim a bathtub area that looks past it's prime. It doesn't have to be a difficult project if you just take it one step at a time, and in the right order. Tub surrounds are offered in in three or five piece kits. Though a three piece kit might be easier and quicker to install, a five piece kit gives you more play in the fit where walls are not square. Also consider that these often have corner shelves and soap dishes.

Tub surrounds are available in a variety of surfaces from smooth, to those that look like real tile, but without the care demands of tile. Once you have selected the surround that suits your preference, it's time to read the instructions that came with kit and see what adhesive is recommended before you proceed. You may also find other helpful tips.

The surface you install over needs to be in good condition, flat, and structurally solid. If you are installing a tub surround over drywall it should be a moisture-resistant type of drywall. If you need to replace the drywall get what is referred to as 'green' drywall which is moisture-resistant. This will save problems later, a moisture-resistant surface is a necessary step in order to get a good and long lasting installation that is trouble-free.

Remove faucet handles and spout and make sure the wall area is clean. Before you apply any adhesive you want to first place your panels up to the wall to make sure they fit. Panels are made to overlap to compensate for variance in wall size covered and because it is not uncommon that walls are not square.

Make a template where your fixture holes need to be and transfer these markings to your panel and cut the holes. Measure more than once to avoid any errors in placement.

Once you have determined placement of panels you can apply recommended adhesive. Cover edges with adhesive making sure flow is continuous and the entire edge is covered. Place your panels to wall and press firmly so adhesive will take. Reinstall your plumbing fixtures and caulk joints of panels as needed. Allow time for adhesive to cure before using shower.

It is also helpful if you can have a friend or family member lend a helping hand. This is not a difficult project, but the panels are sizable and they flex. It is much easier if you have a helper when you are trying them for fit before applying adhesive, and when you set them in place with adhesive.

The important steps for installing a tub surround include:

1. Selecting a tub surround with the surface and features you prefer
2. Reading the instructions provided with kit and checking to see that you have needed supplies and tools
3. Removing plumbing fixtures and inspecting the wall area
4. Enlisting a friend or family member to give you a hand as needed
5. Performing a dry run by fitting panels to wall before applying adhesive
6. Making a template for fixture holes and transferring to panel. Measure and check more than once. Cut holes
7. Apply adhesive, fit tub surround panels to wall and press. Reinstall plumbing fixtures and caulk
8. Thank your helper

Once you have completed installing the tub surround and done the clean up, you can stand and admire how new and up to date your bath area looks.

See our selection of tub surrounds. We have more helpful information as well as quality products to fulfill your bathroom remodeling needs.

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