Are Tub Surrounds Part of Your Bathtub Refinishing Project?

  • May 24th, 2021
Are Tub Surrounds Part of Your Bathtub Refinishing Project?

If you are doing a bathtub refinishing project then chances are that your bathtub is not the only thing that needs to be worked on. If the walls around your bathtub are in need of some help then a tub surround may be right for you. They are a great compliment to bathtub liners and even work well with other bathtub refinishing options. If tub liners meet your needs then installing a surround may be the perfect addition to complete your bathtub refinishing project.

Tub surrounds do exactly what their name implies. They make up the walls that surround your bathtub. Installation is usually a rather easy bathtub refinishing task that can be completed without a lot of time. There are however, several things to consider when deciding whether or not to use tub surrounds in your bathtub refinishing project.

First is cost. This one is an easy one. The most popular tub surrounds (typically $60 to $500) is usually less expensive than the cheapest tile installations (typically $600 to $1000) or solid surface panel installations (typically $1100 to $2000). However, the nicer the tub surround, the higher the price tag. Some can get up to over $1000.

Next, you need to choose between the different types of tub surrounds that are available. At the lower end you will find tub surrounds made from plastic, either ABS or PVC. These are rather thin and will need additional support when installed. Installation of these types of tub surrounds can be a little difficult because of how flimsy the panels can be. From there you can go with the nicer thermal-plastic tub surrounds. These surrounds typically come with formed features and will usually look nicer. At the top of the spectrum are pressed fiberglass tub surrounds. The panels that make up these kits are thicker, more rigid, and more durable than the other types of tub surrounds. Because of these qualities, the panels from these types of kits will be the easiest to install. Of course, the nicer the kit, the more it will cost you, so you will need to consult your bathtub refinishing budget when making this decision.

Once you decide what material you want your tub surround to be made from, you will then need to decide on the finish you want. While textured or high gloss tub surrounds do look nice initially, unless you have water that is not too hard and you are willing to do a lot of cleaning on a regular basis, the initial appearance will not last long. A non-textured (smooth) surface with more of a matte finish will do a much better job at concealing water spots and soap scum.

The last big decision you will have to make for you tub surround will be the number of pieces you get in the kit. Three piece kits are typically less expensive, but unless your walls are perfectly square they can be a little difficult to install. Five piece surrounds are much more tolerant to walls that aren’t perfect.

There is nothing wrong with a nice tiled bathtub enclosure. In fact many are very nice. However, if you are on a strict budget or simply want a different look than considering tub surrounds may be the right choice for your bathtub refinishing project.