Finishing a bathtub with a ready-made surround is an excellent alternative to tiling. If your bathtub has advanced features, there is a risk that after a prolonged period of use, a failure may occur. In such a case, a ready-made surround created from tongue-and-groove panels will allow for quick access to the source of the problem and for repairing the failure.
Bathtub Surround - Ready Solutions for the Bathroom
A ready-made plastic surround is the simplest and most budget-friendly way to finish a bathtub. Regardless of whether you are looking for a surround for a rectangular bathtub or if you want to enclose a corner bathtub, you can be sure that you will find tailored ready-made panels. The market offer is extremely rich and includes adjustable ready-made surrounds that can be adapted to the dimensions of a non-standard bathtub.
Color of the Bathtub Surround
The surround should be color-matched to the bathtub and other sanitary facilities such as the toilet, sink, shower base, or bidet. Maintaining a consistent color scheme effectively hides the fact that the bathtub is older than the surround. Before choosing the appropriate model, it is worth polishing the bowl and edges thoroughly to achieve the most accurate color.
Dimensions of the Ready-Made Surround
If you are buying a new bathtub, check if the manufacturer offers dedicated models of surrounds. Proven brands like Mexen create complete sets that include all the necessary assembly elements. For older bathtubs, you need to measure the length and width carefully.
Type of Installation
Some bathtub surrounds do not require drilling into walls or using anchors. The most economical option is to build a bathtub surround from drywall panels attached with special glue. Remember that in addition to the main panels, you need to install finishing elements and shelves.
Wood and Glass Bathtub Surround - Is It Worth It?
For asymmetrical or freestanding bathtubs, which serve as the centerpiece of the bathroom decor, a wooden surround is an excellent choice. Some species of exotic wood, such as merbau or teak, perform well in humid environments - of course, after being protected with oil. A wooden bathtub surround created according to an original design is an perfect choice for those who prefer Scandinavian and minimalist styles.
Proponents of non-standard, slightly futuristic solutions will surely appreciate glass bathtub surrounds. Contrary to appearances, surrounding a bathtub with glass tiles is not a "fragile" investment - tempered glass panels are practically indestructible and will maintain their modern appearance even after many years of use. Interestingly, a glass surround for a bathtub is an excellent choice for small interiors - it is well known that glass visually enlarges and brightens spaces.
Ready Surrounds Made of Stone and Lightweight Concrete - Industrial Design
A stone bathtub surround is a durable and highly aesthetic solution for medium and large interiors. The bathroom industry offers a range of ready solutions, from granite surrounds to marble bathtub surrounds. However, granite is the most popular choice among customers, whose density makes it extremely resistant to damage. On the other hand, marble is a soft material that requires periodic maintenance. Deciding on a stone bathtub surround, you should prepare for higher investment costs. While enclosing a rectangular bathtub is not particularly troublesome, a surround for bathtubs with non-standard shapes may be more challenging to finish.
Surrounds for Enamel Bathtubs - What to Choose?
For an enamel bathtub, ceramic tiles or waterproof decorative plaster are the best choices. A ceramic tile surround presents itself exceptionally aesthetically and reduces the noise from flowing water, which is particularly important in small apartments. Another interesting design solution is the use of a polystyrene surround, which is absolutely non-invasive to install. Such a surround is perfect for rectangular bathtubs - simply glue it to the substrate and then place the bathtub inside.