Bathtub surrounds may not be at the forefront of your thoughts when you're considering bathroom renovations, but their impact on your bathroom's overall aesthetic can't be underestimated. Functioning as decorative panels positioned around your bathtub, they offer more than style—these design features play a key role in ensuring the long life of your bathroom, protecting the walls from water damage, and providing a seamless aesthetic appeal.
Understanding Bathtub Surrounds: What Are They?
Bathtub surrounds are constructed from several materials, framed, or frameless, providing an elegant touch to your bathroom. The desirable material types range from acrylic to stone or tile. Known to enhance the functionality and style of your bathroom, opting for a bathtub surround isn't just a convenience; it's a design decision.
Bathtub Surround Materials: Options for Every Style
When it comes to bathtub surrounds, one size certainly doesn't fit all. There’s an array of material options out there that can complement your existing bathroom decor or that new look you're trying to achieve.
Acrylic Bathtub Surrounds
Placid and stylish, acrylic bathtub surrounds are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their sleek look, easy maintenance, and longevity. They resist the growth of mildew and mold, which is excellent for a bathroom environment.
Tile Bathtub Surrounds
The sheer variety of tile designs and patterns available make this material a versatile choice for bathtub surrounds. With the right care, tiles can last for a considerable amount of time.
Stone Bathtub Surrounds
Quartz, granite, or even marble - the range of stone bathtub surrounds are extensive. If you're seeking a touch of grandeur or a rustic appeal, stone surrounds are your go-to option.
Choosing the Right Bathtub Surround: Important Factors to Consider
Selecting the right bathtub surround for your bathroom isn't just about style. Certain key considerations including maintenance, durability, and cost will all impact your choice. Here, we delve into the more important factors.
Maintenance and cleaning ease: All bathtub surrounds require some degree of maintenance to ensure they remain clean and attractive. Some materials may require specific cleaning solutions or techniques.
Durability: Whether it's acrylic, tile, or stone, all bathtub surrounds have varying degrees of durability. Consider the lifespan of each material and its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.
Installation complexities: Do you require professional help or is it a DIY friendly job? Both can dramatically affect your renovation timeline and budget.
How to Install a Bathtub Surround: Basics
While the specifics of bathtub surround installation may vary depending on the material and the manufacturer's guidelines, here are some general steps.
Measure the space: Before purchasing your bathtub surround, it's crucial to take accurate measurements of your space to ensure a good fit.
Prepare the walls: Your walls will need to be clean, smooth, and dry.
Apply adhesive: For most bathtub surrounds, you'll apply the adhesive directly to the wall, spreading it out evenly.
Install the surround: Follow your manufacturer's instructions to place your bathtub surround panels.
Seal the edges: Once the surround is in place, you'll want to seal the edge with a waterproof solution such as silicone caulk.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bathtub Surrounds
How do I install a bathtub surround?
Installation procedures could be different depending on the type of bathtub surround. Generally, the process includes removing the old surround or tile, preparing & cleaning the walls, applying adhesive, and installing panels. It's recommended to have a professional installer or a plumber do it to ensure a proper, water-tight fit.
Can a bathtub surround be painted for a fresh look?
Yes, you can paint your bathtub surround for a fresh look. Ensure that you use a paint that's designed for bathrooms due to the high humidity and water conditions. It's also crucial to prep and clean the surround properly before painting to ensure the paint sticks properly. Always follow the paint manufacturer's instructions to get the best results.
How often does a bathtub surround need to be replaced?
With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality bathtub surround can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. You'll need to replace it when you notice signs of serious wear and tear, such as cracking, fading, staining, or peeling.
Can I install a bathtub surround over existing tiles?
Yes, you can install a bathtub surround over existing tiles if the tiles are in good condition, are not loose, and do not have any mold or mildew. However, you need to ensure that the surface is clean, free of soap scum or residue, and thoroughly dried before installation.
What’s the best way to clean a bathtub surround?
To clean a bathtub surround, use a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as they can scratch and dull the bathtub surround's finish.
How can I repair a crack in my bathtub surround?
Small cracks can be repaired with a bathtub repair kit available at home improvement stores. You should follow the recommended procedures of the product's manufacturer. However, if you have a major crack, it might be necessary to replace the entire bathtub surround.
Are bathtub surrounds waterproof?
Yes, bathtub surrounds are designed to be waterproof to prevent water damage to the underlying walls. However, improper installation can lead to waterproofing problems, so always ensure a professional does the job.
Does a bathtub surround work with a shower?
Yes, bathtub surrounds also work well with showers as they provide a watertight barrier that is crucial in a shower. It's important to note that the bathtub surround should extend well above the showerhead to effectively prevent water from reaching the underlying wall.
Can I use a bathtub surround in a bathroom without a bathtub?
Absolutely! Bathroom surrounds are not exclusive to the area of the bathtub alone. They can also be used in the shower area if your bathroom doesn't have a bathtub.
Pros of Bathtub Surrounds
Easy Installation
Bathtub surrounds are relatively easy and quick to install which is a significant advantage, especially for DIY enthusiasts. Once the space is measured correctly and prepared, the surround can be installed in a few hours, saving you a lot of hassle compared to more traditional methodologies like ceramic tiles which require meticulous placement and grouting.
Low Maintenance
On day-to-day basis, keeping a bathtub surround clean is no big deal. A quick wipe down with a cleaning product suitable for the material of the surround is generally all that’s needed. They are designed to resist mold and mildew, so there are no grout lines to scrub or worry about.
Cost-Effective
In comparison to other options like tile or stone, bathtub surrounds are quite cost-effective. You will save not only on the material itself but also on installation (if you’re hiring a professional) as it is a quick and straightforward job.
Design Variety
Bathtub surrounds come in a wide variety of designs, textures, and colors. You get to choose from sleek and modern designs to a more traditional look, suiting every possible style and taste.
Durability
Most bathtub surrounds are made from durable materials like acrylic or fiberglass, which can withstand the rigors of daily use. When properly maintained, they can serve you for many years without showing signs of wear or damage.
Cons of Bathtub Surrounds
Generic Appearance
While bathtub surrounds can be made to look like a variety of materials, they still tend to have a rather generic, "mass-produced" look which some homeowners find less appealing than more custom solutions. The finish could look less refined compared to a professionally tiled surface.
Potential for Damage
Despite their durability, bathtub surrounds can get damaged. They can crack, chip or warp over time or if subjected to heavy impact. In such cases, you often have to replace large sections, if not the whole surround, which could be costly.
Lower Home Resale Value
Compared to tile surrounds, bathtub surrounds could arguably contribute less to your home's resale value. Tiles are generally seen as a more high-end, durable option, and potential buyers may appreciate the look and feel of tile over a plastic surround.
Limited Customizability
Bathtub surrounds are pre-fashioned in specific dimensions. While they do come in different designs and sizes, the customization options are limited compared to a tiled surround.
Installation Difficulties
While bathtub surrounds are easy to install, they can pose problems in bathrooms that are oddly shaped or have intricate corner work. Because surrounds are large and bulky, they can also be difficult to get into smaller bathrooms or up and down narrow staircases.
Specific Considerations for Bathtub Surrounds
Material Choice
Acrylic and Fiberglass Surfaces
Acrylic and fiberglass are the most popular materials used for bathtub surrounds. They are lightweight, durable, and economically priced. Acrylic surfaces resist scratches and are easy to clean but can yellow over time. Fiberglass is the less expensive option, but it's not as durable and can crack or chip.
Composite Surfaces
Composite surfaces are made from a blend of materials which makes them more durable than either fiberglass or acrylic alone. They're a mid-range option, often used for higher-end designs. However, they can be more susceptible to scratches and their luster may fade over time.
Solid Surface Materials
Solid surface bathtub surrounds are made from a blend of acrylic and polyester particles. They're extremely durable, easy to clean, and can mimic the look of more expensive materials like stone or wood. However, they're more expensive than other surround materials.
Ceramic Tile
These bathtub surrounds are more traditional and offer the highest level of customization. Available in a variety of colors, shapes, and patterns, they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom. They're however more expensive and require more time to install, including grouting and sealing.
Future Upgrades
Keep in mind that upgrading or changing the style of a bathtub surround is not as straightforward as changing wall tiles. Whether it's due to damage or just a style upgrade, replacing a surround can be quite a project and may require professional help for smooth execution.
Dealing with Mold
While bathtub surrounds are designed to resist mold and mildew, if water gets behind the surround, a mold problem could develop. Also, silicone caulk used to seal the surround can also become a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained.
Summary
So that's the scoop on bathtub surrounds. These handy additions offer a lot of perks, from giving your bathroom a fresh new look to easy maintenance. They come in a variety of designs, materials, and levels of complexity, so you can find a surround that suits your style, budget, and DIY skill level.
Whether you're remodeling your entire bathroom or just want an upgrade from a curtained shower, bathtub surrounds are a great choice. They're cost-effective, durable, and can even contribute positively to the overall value of your home. So not only do they make your bathroom look sleek and modern, but they're also a smart investment.
Back to bathtub surrounds, they add a layer of protection to your walls, which is why many homeowners are gravitating towards them. A well-chosen surround will last for years, and because they're so easy to clean, they'll look great the whole time too! Based on these awesome benefits, it's no wonder why bathtub surrounds have been growing in popularity.
About GVD Renovations
GVD Renovations is a Roseville, CA-based company known for top-notch home improvement and remodeling services. Established with a keen focus on transforming spaces, our professional team works tirelessly, offering exceptional kitchen and bathroom remodels, home renovations, and siding installations. Prospective clients in Roseville and the surrounding areas can count on GVD Renovations for highly efficient, quality, and breathtaking transformation embedded with style, comfort, durability, and appeal. With our passion for making your home the best version of itself, we uphold customer satisfaction at the heart of our operations. Step into the journey of turning your home renovation dreams into reality with GVD Renovations, where quality workmanship meets unbeatable service.
Tags: bathroom remodel, shower enclosures, tile backsplash,
