Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Window in Bath Tub Surround

I have a bathroom with a full one piece tub surround. The surround is about 15 inches from the cealing. We would like to put a window in the bathroom. A small one above the surround with the amount of space including a header just wont work... Can I put a window maybe 36"X36" right in the surround? Or does the surround have to go?

Thanks

Welcome to the forums! Of all the places you don't want a window, in the bath surround is one of them. The potential for water damage is really high, and you wouldn't be satisfied with the results, considering the thickness of the surround and the wall into which the window would be installed. Do you not have an option of installing a slit window above the unit? You may consider installing a couple or three 12 x 14 windows between the studs above the surround for light. Of course they wouldn't help with ventilation.

Among the many repeat questions in the forums is "What do I do with the window in my shower?" In older construction where tubs were converted to tub/shower units, there was often a window above the tub. Once converted to a tub/shower unit, the window posed privacy issues and moisture problems around wooden window frame.

15" above the shower surround is not a practical amount of room to install windows. It is not clear whether your need is to install windows for additional lighting and/or ventilation. Of course, improved lighting/ventilation fixtures can be installed. If your desire is to bring in natural lighting, perhaps a skylight is an option.

If its just a natural light issue, perhaps a single row glass block window? Quite a bit of work for a small gain tho.

Maybe a Sola-tube style skylite?

I think I'd investigate a high quality bath fan/light combo, if its a light and vent issue.

We have a window in our main floor bath-shower.
It was there when tub surround was installed. It's been 2 years now-no problems so far...........

As Gunguy says, the Solatube is a great way to get light in a room. Just finished installing two for a client and you would be surprised at the amount of light they put out, even on a cloudy day.

Chandler

Personally, I'm a fan of the Velux Sun Tunnels(?). I know Sola-tube basically invented them and they work great, but I never liked the look of their roof reflector. They're just the name most people recognize.

What I like about all the better brands, is you can also wire a light to the inside lens, so you still get light even when they're off, if you like.

As my eyes get older, I'm all about more light!