Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Installing a tub surround

I'm putting up new greenboard in the shower area and installing a tub surround as I got tired of the tile. My question is, does the new wall need to be prepped like it would need to be if I were painting or wallpapering it?

Thanks,
Karl

KombatKarl,

It sounds as if you are installing greenboard behind the tub surround. I assume this is a "panel wall kit"? You should tape all joints to minmize moisture getting back to wood surfaces. You may want to at least apply one coat of paint to areas not visual.

If this is a rigid tub surround walls, usually they are installed directly on the studs, then your greenboard is placed on all other areas around the tub surround. Then the usual tape and paint is done.

Hope this helps!

Doug,

Can the rigid tub surrounds be retrofit around an old cast iron tub or would the panel wall kits be a better choice in this situation since the existing drywall could then stay in place.

Jst,

With what you describe, a wall panel kit, a GOOD one would be your best choice to eliminate hassles.

Rigid walls kits usually apply right to the studs, then you have to do the drywall routine although they look great. I have attached a link to ASB and Swanstone, Mustee, take a look at their products for tub surround kits;

http://www.asbcorp.com/installationmanualsall.cfm

http://www.theswancorp.com/

http://www.elmustee.com/bathwall.html

When these are installed right, they will last for years!

Hope this helps!