How to Install a Shower Surround over Tile

A shower surround is a fancy way of saying a façade or cover to make an old shower look new. A shower surround is made from marine-grade plastics. It's cheaper to install a shower surround than it is to replace tiled shower walls, and you can do it yourself. You just have to take into account the material you are installing it over. Each is different, and the article below will explain how to install a shower surround over tile.

Step 1 – Remove Shower Fixtures

Before you can install a shower surround, you have to remove everything in the shower. Use the small pry bar along with the hammer to carefully remove corner shelves and soap dishes. Use the screwdriver to remove face plates that cover the drain as well as the shower head. You will need to use a wrench to remove the remaining fixtures, such as the shower head and faucet. Be very careful when you do this, as you do not want to damage the pipe in the wall.

Step 2 – Remove the Finish

Tile is very smooth, and as such, needs to be roughed up a bit in order for the shower surround to fit properly. Sanding down the tile is not that difficult, but great care has to be taken so you do not damage the tiles. A palm sander is the best sander to use for this project, and make sure you use 80-grit sandpaper. Sand the tile down until there is no more gloss left on it. Use the vacuum to remove all of the dust created from this process. You can follow up with a tack cloth to make sure you got it all.

Step 3 – Test Fitting

A shower surround comes in limited sizes, and you may need to trim it down to use it, so before you go through the process of installing it always dry fit it first. Place the surround over the shower and mark any excess as well as where the faucet and shower head are located. Remove the surround and use the saw to remove the areas you specified.

Step 4 – Pre-assembly

Many shower surround systems have to be assembled before they are installed over the existing shower. This may include corner sections that have to be connected or other sides. For this step, follow the instructions that came with your specific surround. Once the surround is assembled, you can install it.

Step 5 – Install the Shower Surround

You first have to apply the adhesive to the tile as well as the wall. When you do apply the adhesive, make sure you leave at least ¼-inch of an edge around the installation area. Once the adhesive is in place, install the shower surround. Make sure that the holes line up with the faucet, bars and shower head prior to pressing down on the surround. Caulk around the surround and replace the fixtures.