QA

Quick Answer: How To Install A Tub Surround

Do you need drywall behind tub surround?

The short answer to the question is, “It’s not recommended.” However, this answer only really only suffices if you’re converting a room that was never a bathroom into a wet space. Drywall on its own is not suitable for use in bathrooms because it is prone to absorbing moisture and thus losing structural integrity.

Can you put a tub surround over existing tub?

Tub surrounds can sometimes be installed over existing tile, but only when conditions are right. The old tile area needs to be smaller than the kit and you’ll need to build up the surrounding wall to the level of the tile, usually with 1/4-in. drywall. First, tape cardboard over the tub to protect it.

How long does it take to install tub surround?

For a typical tub with a tile tub surround to be removed and the walls of the surround replaced you are looking at at least 3 days for simple tile, although there are ways to shorten this. It will take about a half day to get rid of the old one.

Do you need cement board behind tub surround?

ANSWER – No there should not be a gap between the top of the bathtub flange and the backer board on the wall. There should be a moisture barrier behind the backer board that is installed in a weather lapping manner starting at the tub flange working up the wall.

What can I put behind my tub surround?

Install cement board or an equivalent moisture-resistant backing material on walls behind tub and shower enclosures composed of tile or panel assemblies with caulked joints. Don’t use paper-faced backer board, i.e., paper-faced drywall, behind seamed tub and shower enclosures.

How many tubes of glue do I need for a tub surround?

A typical surround will require approximately 3 tubes of adhesive for installation.

How much does a tub surround cost?

Cost To Install Tub Surround The average cost to install a tub surround is $600 to $1,800 for the materials and labor. The labor cost to replace a tub surround is $300 to $600. Basic acrylic and fiberglass tub surrounds cost $200 to $1,000, while solid surface surrounds cost $600 to $2,000, plus installation.

Can I install Bath Fitter myself?

Bathtub liners have to be custom made to fit, so even if you install one yourself, it could involve long waiting periods. You can hire a pro to do it, or you may choose to do it yourself with a bathtub refinishing kit. To prepare the area, first turn off the water source, clean the tub and remove any existing caulk.

Should you caulk a tub surround?

If the tub/tile connection is caulked the water cannot wick out through the bottom grout joint and moisture builds up and is able to feed the mold that eventually develops. So if you have a tile tub enclosure—-keep the grout well repaired—-but don’t caulk the connection and the enclosure will behave itself much better.

How long does it take to tile a tub surround?

Expect to spend about 20 minutes per square yard to prepare and set the tile, and make sure you’re comfortable with using hand tools, a cordless drill, and trowels. Depending on the size of your shower and your expertise level, the project can be accomplished in a few days.

What goes behind a shower wall?

In showers, the standard substrate is tile backer, also called cement board or cement backer board.

How much does it cost to replace a tub shower combo?

The average cost to replace a bathtub and surround is $1,500 to $11,000. Installation tends to run the least if you choose a combo with built-in shower and surround.

How long does it take a professional to tile a shower?

Professionals can have your bathroom tiled in as little as 4 to 8 hours. Hiring a professional will cost you. At $10-$20 per square foot, your tiling job just became a whole lot more expensive. Hiring a professional may save you time, but you can save money by doing the job yourself.

Should you put plastic behind shower walls?

They are required beneath your shower pan and behind your shower walls. Moisture barriers can be made of polyethylene or a membrane that is rolled directly onto the drywall. No matter what they are made of, without them, your shower is subject to moisture damage.

Can I use green board for shower walls?

It means “Greenboard” can still be used in bathrooms (and other areas), it just cannot be used as a backer for tile in a shower or tub surround. It can be used in areas not subject to direct water exposure (tub/shower surround), and areas of noncontinuous high humidity (bathrooms).

Can you use cement board for shower walls?

Cement boards can be used in a shower because they can be exposed to water and moisture without warping, rotting, and deteriorating. It also does not promote the growth of molds and mildew. Cement boards are also a good substrate to use for tiles, which are commonly installed in showers as well.