How to Build a Tub Surround
Just like the kitchen, the bathroom is often one of the most heavily used areas of the home, and after time, it can definitely show it's age. It's easy to bring new life to your old bathroom just by installing a new tub surround. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Putty Knife
- Surround Kit
- Pencil
- Utility (Razor) Knife
- Drill & Bits
- Jig or Hole Saw
- Gloves
- Level
- Adhesives
- Tape
- Caulking
Instructions
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How to Build a Tub Surround
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Put a layer of newspapers, cardboard, or a few towels in the bottom to prevent damage to the bathtub from falling tools or debris. An old blanket may work as well. Take off the existing faucets and fixtures with a wrench or screwdriver. If you intend on reinstalling these items, put them in a safe place along with all screws and gaskets that are removed.
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2
Get rid of any existing wall tiles or surrounds. Scrape off leftover mortar or adhesives with a putty knife. If there is any rotted or softened wood or backer, repair it as needed. Make sure there are no rough, sunken, or damp areas remaining. Don't forget to remove any remaining caulking or mortar where the old sidewalls met the tub. If necessary, clean the larger fallen debris from the bottom of the tub without removing the layer that was put down for protection.
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3
Create a guide to help in positioning the faucets. Use the cardboard that came with the surround. Hold it against the wall where the faucets are located and make a mark at the center point where the items will stick out through the wall. Draw a circle equal to the circumference of your faucets and/or handles around the center mark. Use the utility knife to cut out the holes in the cardboard. Put the cardboard back up against the wall and double check that the template is correct. If it is not, correct as needed. Then use the cardboard as a guide to mark the holes in the actual surround. Use the drill to make a starter hole and the jig or hole saw to cut the circles out.
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4
"Dry fit" the pieces together by placing in the location that they will be installed to ensure they will fit. Wear gloves when placing the panels to avoid injury. Check that all pieces are plumb and level. You may need to trim a piece so that it will fit. Since cutting tools and methods will vary according to the surround that was purchased, it is best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more detail on trimming.
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5
Remove all the pieces that were "dry fit." Make sure to note which piece will be installed where. Then apply any necessary adhesives. Be aware of the length of time needed exposure for the adhesive to properly cure. Attach the panels in the order stated in the instructions. Use tape if desired to help keep the panels in place until the adhesive sets.
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6
Allow a minimum of 24 hours for the adhesive to dry (or more depending on the brand that was used). Reinstall the previous faucets and fixtures or install new ones. With a dry rag, wipe off any fingerprints or loose debris left from construction then caulk all seams. Allow the caulk plenty of time to dry before use.
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Tips & Warnings
Read all manufacturer instructions. Plan for an alternate bathing facility. Have a helper.
Have ample ventilation when using adhesives. Keep children and pets out of work area.
