What You Need to Know About Bathtub Surrounds?

An elegant bathtub surround hides all unsightly installation elements and is an interesting decoration for any bathroom. The right one will create a pleasing space for bathing. So, which surround should you choose? You can choose a pre-made surround that fits a specific model of the bathtub or make one yourself using ceramic tiles. In this article, we present valuable information about bathtub surrounds that everyone considering this solution should remember.

Pre-made Bathtub Surrounds

Manufacturers often offer pre-made surrounds for specific bathtub models. They are most commonly made of white acrylic, so they do not leave much room for creativity in terms of bathroom design. This is a classic type of bathtub surround and therefore not very innovative. However, they are very elegant and blend well into any interior. Moreover, their installation is very quick and easy. Pre-made plastic panels are installed using clips or connectors included in the set. Another advantage of this solution is easy access to the elements beneath the bathtub in case of a malfunction. With ease, you can dismantle the surrounding elements and reassemble them after the repair. Thus, this type of bathtub surround is highly practical.

Gypsum Board Surround

A very popular method is to use gypsum boards to surround the bathtub. For installation, you will primarily need metal profiles, materials such as putty, sanitary silicone, and acoustic tape. It is important to remember that green boards, which are impregnated against moisture, are meant for bathrooms. Gypsum boards should be placed on a frame (the frame thickness is 5.5 cm or 6.5 cm). The prepared surface should be leveled or puttied. Then we can proceed to laying ceramic tiles, which are easy to keep clean. Additionally, there is a vast selection of patterns and sizes, so we can easily match them to the room's decor. This bathtub surround, the visual appeal of which depends solely on our creative ingenuity!

Masonry Bathtub Surround

Another method is to surround the bathtub with aerated concrete tiles. This material can be easily shaped, allowing for perfect fitting to the shape of the bathtub. Furthermore, it allows for the creation of practical shelves. Blocks are joined with adhesive mortar and then secured with a primer. The prepared surface can then be finished with ceramic tiles. Such a bathtub surround is solid and durable.

Styrofoam Surround

Flexible styrofoam supports are lightweight and very easy to install. They provide excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. A styrofoam bathtub surround is used in the case of bathtubs adjoining the wall. The pre-made surround can be finished with glazed tiles or ceramic tiles. This surround is best used if we have an oval or round bathtub due to the flexibility of the material.

When deciding on a bathtub surround, it is necessary to create inspection openings, which will make it possible to repair the components located under the surround. It is important that the inspection opening is positioned to ensure convenient access. Additionally, it should be remembered that the junction between the bathtub edge and the wall should be sealed to prevent water from getting under the bathtub.

Bathtub Surround and Its Shape

Rectangular Bathtub Surround

Rectangular bathtubs are the most popular solution because they are functional and comfortable. Surrounding a rectangular bathtub is not difficult. Here, a pre-made bathtub surround, a surround made of aerated concrete blocks, as well as styrofoam and gypsum board are suitable. In the case of rectangular bathtubs, we have immense flexibility, and the surround can be made from virtually any material. For instance, large-format tiles are becoming increasingly popular as a finish. An interesting idea is to finish the bathtub surround with wide wooden planks.

Corner Bathtub Surround

A corner bathtub is one of the most practical bathtubs, as it works well in both large and small bathrooms. A corner bathtub surround can be made from styrofoam supports or aerated concrete blocks. When it comes to finishing, it will be more time-consuming, as for direct laying, smaller-sized tiles or mosaic plaster on a flexible mesh are best. This involves laying individual tiles, which should have a width of 10-12 cm. Thus, they need to be cut, and the edges should be well sanded to ensure that the edge does not have sharp edges.

How to Surround an Oval Bathtub?

An oval or round bathtub is somewhat more difficult to surround due to its rounded edges. Using a pre-made surround for an oval bathtub is the simplest solution. They are usually made of acrylic in white color. Another good material is styrofoam, as it will handle the rounded shape of the bathtub. This surround can be finished with narrow wooden elements or ceramic mosaic.

A bathtub surround is a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution that allows for a beautiful finish of the bathtub. Create a practical and cozy bathing area in your bathroom using the material that suits you best. However, regardless of which type of bathtub surround you choose, you must remember to leave an inspection opening so that in the case of a malfunction, repairs can be easily carried out.