Tub surround around existing tub?
#1
06-21-15, 09:28 PM
Tub surround around existing tub?
Hello,
I have a cast iron tub in bathroom. It is in pretty good shape, but the tile around it is old. I am going to have tub refinished. Is it an option for me to get some kind of tub surround for my existing tub? If so, any good manufacturers? It seems like they are all sold as a tub + surround kit. Should I go 3 piece, 5, or 1 piece? I appreciate the help!
I have a cast iron tub in bathroom. It is in pretty good shape, but the tile around it is old. I am going to have tub refinished. Is it an option for me to get some kind of tub surround for my existing tub? If so, any good manufacturers? It seems like they are all sold as a tub + surround kit. Should I go 3 piece, 5, or 1 piece? I appreciate the help!
#2
06-22-15, 03:22 AM
Does the tub have a rim lip around three sides? Have you considered re tiling the walls once it is in place? A 5 piece unit would be easier for one person to handle, but IMO a backer should be in place rather than just stud walls. Sheetrock isn't a good backer. Water resistant sheetrock may be a choice, but concrete backer is probably best. It helps to stiffen up the walls once you glue them up.
#3
06-22-15, 05:22 AM
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There are Acrylic Tub Liners available that fit your old tub perfectly. The tubs are manufactured using the original tubs. The manufacturer has every tub ever made pretty much. Unfortunately this is not do it yourself. The link will give you some ideas though if you want to replace the tub yourself and add the wall panels.
Bathroom Remodeling - Shower Liners - Bath Liners - BCI Acrylic
Bathroom Remodeling - Shower Liners - Bath Liners - BCI Acrylic
#4
06-22-15, 06:12 AM
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If I do a surround I use a nail on, not a glued on.
There at least 4 times thicker then a glued on, easy to install.
No backer needed.
There is no reason if you go with a glued on that sheetrock will not work as a backer.
Any Lowe's or Home Depot has both style surrounds in stock.
There at least 4 times thicker then a glued on, easy to install.
No backer needed.
There is no reason if you go with a glued on that sheetrock will not work as a backer.
Any Lowe's or Home Depot has both style surrounds in stock.
#5
06-22-15, 02:22 PM
I have some questions based on the responses:
1. Is it common for cast iron tubs to have the lip on 3 sides or uncommon?
2. How do I know who the tub manufacturer is?
3. Can I put cement backer or green board behing a "nail to stud" acrylic surround or does it have to go straight to stud?
Thanks!!
1. Is it common for cast iron tubs to have the lip on 3 sides or uncommon?
2. How do I know who the tub manufacturer is?
3. Can I put cement backer or green board behing a "nail to stud" acrylic surround or does it have to go straight to stud?
Thanks!!
#6
06-22-15, 02:31 PM
1) Just depends on the design of the tub. Being cast iron isn't a design.
2) Sometimes a stamping on the overflow cover, or on an outer edge. It may just be decal, so it could be gone.
3) Unlike Joe, I prefer backing to any plastic surround. You will find it flimsy, no matter how thick it is. CBU always a good choice. It will certainly depend on the manufacturer's suggestion, as always.
2) Sometimes a stamping on the overflow cover, or on an outer edge. It may just be decal, so it could be gone.
3) Unlike Joe, I prefer backing to any plastic surround. You will find it flimsy, no matter how thick it is. CBU always a good choice. It will certainly depend on the manufacturer's suggestion, as always.
#7
06-22-15, 03:44 PM
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1. Is it common for cast iron tubs to have the lip on 3 sides or uncommon?
Yes, it is common for all tubs.
2. How do I know who the tub manufacturer is?
It doesn't matter if you only want a surround.
I mentioned tub manufacturer because a tub liner is custom molded at the factory according to very precise measurements made by trained techs in the field.
The measurements are not to mold the tub, they only verify correct mold is being used and your tub is one of the thousands that they have exact molds for. It basically identifies your tub.
This tub liner process is not available to do yourself. The walls are available many places.
Yes, it is common for all tubs.
2. How do I know who the tub manufacturer is?
It doesn't matter if you only want a surround.
I mentioned tub manufacturer because a tub liner is custom molded at the factory according to very precise measurements made by trained techs in the field.
The measurements are not to mold the tub, they only verify correct mold is being used and your tub is one of the thousands that they have exact molds for. It basically identifies your tub.
This tub liner process is not available to do yourself. The walls are available many places.
#8
06-26-15, 03:54 PM
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Hi, I have installed surrounds The best one I found was a Sterling by Kohler 3 piece, grab bar, I think it was fiberglass, it mounted directly to the studs. I mounted on a tub in good shape about 40 years old ( cast iron). I bought it at Lowes. Their display included the tub you could buy. You can get the surround without the tub.
Good Luck Woodbutcher
Good Luck Woodbutcher
