Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - tub surround over tile?
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05-24-00, 12:42 PM
After looking at tub surrounds and their minimal thickness, what are the advantages/disadvantages of installing a new tub surround over the existing ceramic tile? I have 1/2 to 3/4 inch contoured edge along the length of the tub where it meets the tile. Other than removing a recessed soap dish, the walls are relatively plum. I'm still doing research but would like to start this project by the end of June. In advance, thanks for your suggestions.
05-25-00, 04:31 PM
There is nothing that says a tub surround can't go over tile. Most are installed using a construction adhesive supplied as part of the kit.
First look at the type kits, you like, determine what that manufacturer recommends or prohibits.
Get a general idea of what is involved. There are usually little handouts on the products.
The contoured edge you describe may have to be removed and the area filled. Ensure the size is large enough and be knowledgeable about any cutting or fitting that must be done.
Can that particular product be cut and if so what is involved? Some products tend to chip if cut with a saw.
If you are not installing it yourself, get the person who will be involved with the planning before purchasing anything.
The tough thing on some of the surrounds is getting the trim to look good. Some kits do not include trim to finish off where it meets the ceiling or end points on the walls.
Removal of the soap dish shouldn't be a problem but the patch for that area should be planned in advance.
This seems to be a simple project but there are enough variables to get into trouble.
Most retrofit surrounds are usually a three piece kit bought off the shelf. Usually there is some trimming involved.
There are one piece kits which are usually used for new work.
A one piece could be used in your case but the fit must be near perfect or the surround made custom. These tend to be the best, are the most expensive and are usually installed with the purchase.
The custom installations are worth the extra money in my opinion for retrofit work. They go in very quickly, are the most trouble free and have the best appearance.
The trick in these projects is not really the installation but in the planning and purchasing of suitable product.
Surrounds are usually of vinyl or fiberglass. They can be scratched but are usually easy to clean. Their color can fade with time. Part of it is like anything else, the grade and quality purchased.
Best of luck
First look at the type kits, you like, determine what that manufacturer recommends or prohibits.
Get a general idea of what is involved. There are usually little handouts on the products.
The contoured edge you describe may have to be removed and the area filled. Ensure the size is large enough and be knowledgeable about any cutting or fitting that must be done.
Can that particular product be cut and if so what is involved? Some products tend to chip if cut with a saw.
If you are not installing it yourself, get the person who will be involved with the planning before purchasing anything.
The tough thing on some of the surrounds is getting the trim to look good. Some kits do not include trim to finish off where it meets the ceiling or end points on the walls.
Removal of the soap dish shouldn't be a problem but the patch for that area should be planned in advance.
This seems to be a simple project but there are enough variables to get into trouble.
Most retrofit surrounds are usually a three piece kit bought off the shelf. Usually there is some trimming involved.
There are one piece kits which are usually used for new work.
A one piece could be used in your case but the fit must be near perfect or the surround made custom. These tend to be the best, are the most expensive and are usually installed with the purchase.
The custom installations are worth the extra money in my opinion for retrofit work. They go in very quickly, are the most trouble free and have the best appearance.
The trick in these projects is not really the installation but in the planning and purchasing of suitable product.
Surrounds are usually of vinyl or fiberglass. They can be scratched but are usually easy to clean. Their color can fade with time. Part of it is like anything else, the grade and quality purchased.
Best of luck