Bathtub Surround Installation DIY Guide

You can install a tub surround kit over your regular walls, whether they be tile or any other hard, solid material. Typically, you want to consider bathtub surround installation if the current walls of your bath area are dated or unattractive.

Generally, you'll need a small screwdriver, pencil, pocket knife, tape measure, level, and a jig saw. You'll also want to make sure that you have an installation kit, adhesive with the proper applicator, coarse sandpaper, and caulk.

When using a tub surround installation kit, each will have their own directions specific to that product kit. You want to make sure that your read the directions carefully and thoroughly.

You'll want to following the following general directions when installing your tub surround.

First, you'll want to remove the spout, faucet handles, and all accessories from around the bath tub, and set them aside.

You'll want to go ahead and repair the damaged areas on the current walls that surround the tub, and if you will be installing over ceramic tile, you'll want to use the coarse sandpaper to enhance the grip abilities of the adhesive.

Clean the area between the tub and the wall, and re-caulk if you need to.

Next, you'll want to mark the bathtub surround installation area, including the location of the faucet, spout, and whatever else will stick out of the wall; cut out the areas on the template and use them to mark the location on the tub surround panels and use the jig saw to cut out the holes.

You'll want to next hold the panels in place according to the manufacturers instructions and mark the location of the top and sides on the wall so that you can make sure that the panels will be level.

Next, apply the adhesive according the the manufacturer's directions, paying close attention to the time you should expose the glue before affixing the panels because if you don't allow enough time, the adhesive will not bond properly.

Once you attach the panels to the wall, according to the manufacturer's instructions, you'll want to let the tub adhesive dry properly before turning on the water. Go ahead and replace the faucet, spout, and other accessories at this time.

Lastly, you'll want to seal all the joints with caulk and letting that dry before turning on the water to the tub.

Bathtub surround installation is a pretty easy do it yourself project. Just make sure that you have help with the project, and if you get lost call a professional. Source: Bathtubinstallationinc dot com, Louis Zhang