Choosing a new tub surround for your bathroom can be an exciting project, but there are a few key factors to consider before making this investment. A tub surround serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, so take the time to evaluate your needs, budget and style preferences. By doing your homework ahead of time, you’ll end up with a tub surround that enhances your bathing experience and matches the look you want to achieve.
Types of Tub Surrounds
When beginning your tub surround search, you’ll first want to understand the main options available. The most common types of tub surrounds include:
Fiberglass
Fiberglass tub surrounds consist of molded panels made from a combination of fiberglass, resins and gel coat. This material is lightweight yet durable, water-resistant and easy to clean. Fiberglass surrounds come in one-piece or multi-panel options with trim kits to finish off the edges. The molded design provides a built-in alcove for soap, shampoo and other shower essentials.
Pros
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Budget-friendly option
- Easy DIY installation
- Smooth, seamless finish
Cons
- Limited color and style options
- Prone to discoloration over time
- Not as customizable as tile
Acrylic
Acrylic (or PVC) tub surrounds are made from plastic resin materials. Like fiberglass, acrylic surrounds are available in one-piece units or multiple panels. The material is moisture-resistant and easy to keep clean. Acrylic surrounds offer more creative freedom than fiberglass, with options like integrated shelves, soap dishes and even LED lighting.
Pros
- Highly customizable aesthetic
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Easy DIY installation
- Affordable option
Cons
- Not as durable as tile
- Limited warranty period
- Prone to discoloration over time
- Seams may separate over time
Cultured Marble
Cultured marble is made from crushed marble blended with polyester resins. This material can be molded into a seamless, one-piece tub surround with the look of natural stone. Cultured marble is durable, easy to clean and resists moisture damage.
Pros
- Elegant, natural marble look
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Moisture-resistant
- Easy maintenance
- Seamless installation
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy to install
- Limited color options
- Not DIY friendly
- Prone to cracks and chips
Tile
Tile tub surrounds provide the most design flexibility, available in endless colors, textures, sizes, shapes and materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass, stone and more. Tile is durable, easy to clean and stands up well to moisture. The grout lines do require more scrubbing to keep clean and mold-free. Professional installation is recommended.
Pros
- Highly customizable in style and design
- Durable, long-lasting material
- Withstands moisture and daily wear
- Easy to clean smooth surface
- Natural material options
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Professional installation required
- Grout requires maintenance
- Not a seamless look
- Tile can crack or chip
Measure Your Space
Once you’ve explored the main tub surround options, it’s time to break out the measuring tape. Carefully measure the length, height, depth and any unique contours of your existing bathtub and surrounding walls.
This will tell you the precise dimensions needed for your new surround. Keep the following in mind:
- One-piece surrounds are only available in standard sizes, so your tub alcove must match those exact measurements.
- Multi-piece surrounds offer more flexibility if your space is an unusual size.
- Measure from multiple points to account for any uneven surfaces.
- Note details like the faucet location, built-in soap dishes and where the surround meets the walls.
- If updating a surround over your existing tub, confirm it is still in good condition without any leaks or damage.
Accurate measurements ensure your new tub surround will fit correctly within your bathroom layout. If the dimensions are off, you may end up needing to do additional work like moving plumbing or removing tile. Getting it right the first time prevents wasted money and headaches down the road.
Material Performance
While you likely have aesthetic preferences for your new tub surround, don’t overlook the importance of choosing a material built to last. Consider how well each option will hold up to moisture, daily use and cleaning products over time.
Moisture Resistance
Since your tub surround will get splashed and damp on a regular basis, moisture resistance is key. Tile, cultured marble, acrylic and fiberglass surrounds are waterproof and prevent leaks, damage and mold growth. Some materials are more prone to discoloration from moisture over time.
Durability
Pick a material able to withstand scrapes, bumps and active family use without cracking or chipping. Tile, cultured marble and fiberglass are very durable options. Acrylic can also be durable, but lower quality products may be more prone to damage.
Easy Maintenance
Choose a smooth, non-porous material that won’t easily collect grime and soap scum. Surrounds like acrylic, fiberglass and tile can be easily wiped clean. Materials like grouted tile and textured surfaces require extra scrubbing and cleaning effort.
Longevity
Higher quality materials installed properly should last for many years. Tile and cultured marble will generally outlast acrylic or fiberglass surrounds, which have a shorter lifespan before needing replacement.
Ease of Installation
Depending on your DIY abilities, you may want to tackle installing your tub surround yourself or leave it to the professionals. Assess the following factors:
Skill Level Needed
Fiberglass and acrylic surrounds usually only require basic DIY skills for installing the panels and trim. Tiling requires greater expertise in surface preparation, precise tile cutting and proper grouting technique.
Time Commitment
A DIY surround installation typically takes 2-3 days from start to finish. The process involves careful prep work, applying adhesive, setting panels, and allowing adequate drying time between steps. Rushing through stages can lead to a poor quality result.
Tool Requirements
For acrylic or fiberglass surrounds, you’ll need basic tools like a utility knife, caulk gun, level, drill and taps for mounting. Tiling requires a wet saw for cutting, trowel, grout float and sponges in addition to safety gear.
Help Needed
The large size and weight of surround panels often make DIY installation very difficult alone. Having an extra set of hands helps maneuver the pieces into place safely. Some one-piece cultured marble units may require professional equipment to lift and position without damage.
If the scope of the installation seems beyond your experience, don’t be afraid to call in a professional. You’ll avoid aggravation and have the peace of mind that your surround will be fitted correctly on the first try.
Complement Your Style
With so many options for colors, patterns, shapes and textures, it’s fun to choose a tub surround that showcases your design taste. Think about the style of your bathroom and whatlook most appeals to you.
Color Scheme
Tub surrounds come in neutral hues like white or bisque to bold, vibrant shades of blue, green and beyond. Choose a color that aligns with your existing color palette or makes a statement, like an emerald green glass tile surround.
Material Type
Do you prefer an organic look? Consider wood-like porcelain tiles or polished natural stone. For an ultra-modern feel, opt for glossy acrylic panels or sleek glass mosaic tile. The material possibilities are endless.
Patterns and Textures
Make your tub surround truly unique with special details. Try a mosaic tile layout, inlaid metal medallions, or whimsical fish scale-shaped tiles. Contrasting grout colors also add visual interest. Distressed finishes like crackle glaze ceramic bring texture and rustic charm.
Special Touches
Look for surrounds with integrated shelving, soap dishes, grab bars and even mood lighting for an extra wow factor. Accent tiles along edges or as bands across the surround can provide another pop of color and style.
Estimate Your Investment
The cost of your tub surround will depend on the material, size, customization and installation. On average, pricing breaks down as:
- Fiberglass or acrylic: $500 – $2,000
- Cultured marble: $2,500 – $4,500
- Ceramic or porcelain tile: $2,000 – $5,000
- Stone, glass or metal tile: $3,000 – $7,000+
Keep the following cost factors in mind:
- One-piece is usually cheaper than multi-panel styles
- Thicker and higher quality materials cost more
- Unique shapes, patterns and detailing add cost
- Time and labor for professional installation
- Any repairs needed to existing tub or walls
Setting a clear budget helps narrow your options. Remember you’ll also need to factor in costs for supplies like mortar, grout, adhesive and sealants as well as new shower accessories.
Common Concerns
Some common questions and concerns often come up when shopping for a new tub surround. Knowing the answers ahead of time makes the process smoother.
Are surrounds difficult to clean and maintain?
Non-porous surround materials can be easily wiped down. Grout does require regular scrubbing and sealing. Avoid textured surfaces prone to collecting dirt and mildew.
Do I need to replace my existing tub?
Most surrounds are designed to fit over your existing tub, saving time and demolition mess. Just confirm your tub is in good shape without leaks or damage.
How do I know if my walls need work before installing?
Inspect walls for peeling paint, tile adhesive, roughness or plumbing issues. Address any problems to ensure a smooth, secure fit for the surround panels.
What about shampoo niches and storage?
Many one-piece acrylic and cultured marble surrounds have shelves built in. You can also purchase wall-mount soap dishes. With tile, you can get creative and add inset shelving.
How do I cut surround panels for an odd size space?
Use a power saw with a fine tooth blade suitable for cutting acrylic or fiberglass. Always wear proper eye and breathing protection when cutting. Use a wet saw for tile.
What thickness material should I choose?
Thicker surround panels made from reinforced acrylic or high impact polystyrene are more durable and resistant to damage over time.
Before You Buy a Tub Surround
Upgrading your tub surround is an exciting transformation for your bathroom. By knowing what to look for and understand up front, you can make the shopping and installation process smooth and hassle-free. Be sure to:
- Gather accurate measurements of your tub and space
- Determine the best material for your needs
- Choose a style that suits your design taste
- Set a realistic budget and include all costs
- Decide if you will DIY install or hire a pro
- Address any issues with your tub or walls first
With the right prep work and research, your new tub surround can be both beautiful and functional for years to come. The investment pays off in increased home value and a soothing, spa-like space you’ll look forward to escaping to daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Tub Surround
Purchasing and installing a new tub surround in your bathroom is a big project that naturally brings up many questions. Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about making this home upgrade.
What are tub surrounds made of?
The most popular tub surround materials are fiberglass, acrylic, cultured marble, and tile. Each has pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetics.
How much does it cost to replace a bathtub surround?
The average cost to replace a tub surround ranges from $500-$2000 for fiberglass or acrylic, $2500-$5000 for cultured marble, and $2000-$7000+ for tile. The final cost depends on the material, size, and complexity of your installation.
Should I get a one-piece or multi-panel tub surround?
One-piece tub surrounds allow for a quick and seamless installation, but only come in standard sizes. Multi-panel options provide more flexibility for custom sizing, but involve dealing with seams between panels.
How long does it take to install a tub surround?
A DIY tub surround installation typically takes 2-3 days. There is important prep work, precise measurement, applying adhesive, allowing drying time between steps, and carefully setting panels.
Can I install a tub surround myself?
Some acrylic and fiberglass surrounds can be installed DIY if you have basic skills. Tiling requires advanced expertise. Hiring a pro ensures proper installation, especially for one-piece units which are very heavy and difficult to maneuver.
What specialized tools do I need to install a tub surround?
For acrylic or fiberglass you’ll need a utility knife, caulk gun, drill, level, and taps. For tile, you need a wet saw, trowel, grout float, sponges, safety gear. A second set of hands also really helps during installation.
How do I cut tub surround panels?
Use a fine-tooth power saw suitable for acrylic and fiberglass to cut them to size. Always wear proper breathing and eye protection. Use a wet saw to accurately cut tile. Measure carefully to get a precise fit.
How do I maintain and clean a tub surround?
Non-porous surround materials can easily be wiped clean with soap and water. Avoid textured surfaces that allow mildew growth. Grout requires frequent scrubbing and sealing to stay clean. Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners.
What kind of warranty comes with a new tub surround?
Warranties vary by manufacturer. Acrylic and fiberglass typically have 1-5 years of coverage. Tile may have lifetime warranty. Inspect panels carefully before installation to ensure there are no defects.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a fresh new tub surround is one of the most effective ways to modernize and beautify your bathroom. Paying attention to key details like precise sizing, material characteristics, installation factors, style and cost considerations will ensure the process goes smoothly from start to finish. Do your homework up front to end up with a surround that checks all your must-have boxes for functionality, design and budget. With proper planning and expert installation, your new tub surround can transform your bath into a relaxing oasis you’ll enjoy for many years.
