QA

Quick Answer: How To Install Direct To Stud Tub Surround

Can a direct to stud shower surround be installed over drywall?

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.

What is direct stud shower installation?

Most tub and shower surrounds require direct-to-stud installation, which means you’ll have to remove existing drywall in order to access the studs. We recommend cutting the drywall to roughly the size of the surround to save yourself time in patching walls when you’re finished with the installation.

What can I put behind my shower surround?

Install cement board behind tub and shower enclosures. 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.

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.

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.

Can you use plywood behind shower walls?

Plywood: Water-Prone, Not Code Since plywood is often used as an underlayment for floor tile, some do-it-yourselfers may believe that it can also be used in shower wall applications.

Do you install a tub before or after drywall?

Fiberglass and acrylic tub and shower enclosures come with a flanged edge that attaches directly to the wall studs, and the proper way to hide this flange is to install drywall over it. Consequently, enclosures are typically installed on the bare studs.

How do you finish a wall over a shower surround?

How to Protect the Wall Above the Shower Walls Cover Walls with Wallpaper. Vinyl wallpaper is a solid finish material you can use in areas with moisture. Use Moisture-Resistant Paint. Tile to Protect the Walls. Apply Cultured Marble.

How do you install a shower surround over existing tile?

Step 1: Remove Plumbing Fixtures. Step 2: Rough Up Tile Surface. Step 3: Cut and Install Apron-Trim Pieces. Step 4: Level Vertical Apron-Trim Piece. Step 5: Install Back Panel. Step 6: Apply Sealant and Position Panel. Step 7: Position Side Panel. Step 8: Make Cardboard Template.

How do you build a tub surround?

Drop in tub surround with full access Step 1: Frame out surround. Step 2: Install proper substrate on framing. Step 3: Install finished surround material. Step 4: Finish top deck. Step 5: Place tub and Shim/level. Step 6: Secure the bottom of the tub. Step 7: Install drain/overflow. Step 8: Install high flow tub filler.

What is the best material to use behind shower walls?

Acrylic is the best system to use for shower walls because it is the safest, least high maintenance, and easy to install, meaning your shower could be done in as little as one day. Acrylic is one of the most durable materials used in the shower construction industry, and for good reason.

What should be behind tub surround?

The insulation behind the tub or shower should be equivalent to the insulation in the rest of the exterior walls and should be covered with an air barrier of cement backer board, rigid foam insulation, or non-paper-faced drywall that is sealed at the edges and seams to provide a continuous air seal.

Can you glue a tub surround to cement board?

Recommended For: adhering plastic and fiberglass tub and shower surrounds to structurally sound drywall, plywood, ceramic tiles, greenboard and cement backerboard.

Does backer board go over tub lip?

The best approach when installing cement board or other tile backer around a tub is to keep the cement board out of the lip area. above the lip of the tub. Then apply a generous amount of thin-set to the bottom bathtub tile and position it 1/8 in.

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. It may be possible to refinish or reglaze the bathtub, which is easier, faster and cheaper. You can hire a pro to do it, or you may choose to do it yourself with a bathtub refinishing kit.

Can I install my own bathtub liner?

Bathtub liners are thin materials made from PVC plastic or acrylics that offer a fresh look to unattractive bathtub surfaces. Liners protect vulnerable kids or adults from accidents each time they take a bath. Installing a liner is extremely easy and doesn’t take up much of your time.