- First, you’ll need a plan. Measure your space and find the tub and shower surround that suits your needs.
- Next, time to demo. Most tub and shower surrounds require direct-to-stud installation, which means you’ll have to remove existing drywall in order to access the studs. ...
- Once your drywall is cut, work your way from back to front. ...
- Move on to the sides. Install the next side without plumbing on it. Lock this into the back wall panel you just set and level it in place. ...
- Head to the opposite side (the side with the plumbing) and measure carefully to drill spaces for the tub or shower valve and spout, if needed. ...
- Install the final wall by lining up the holes you’ve just drilled with the plumbing fixtures and lock it into place, being sure it’s leveled. ...
- Finish the project by reinstalling plumbing fixtures as needed and caulking the plumbing trim to prevent leaks.
How do you install a direct to stud shower base?
In a regular remodeling project with a direct-to-stud-kit, you first install a shower base or bathtub and then finish the wall with the surround kit. Attach the panels directly to the studs. Note that you don’t need a drywall cement board as in the case of glue up install.
Are shower surrounds glue up or direct to stud?
And while most shower walls and surrounds are glued to the wall, there are some options that install direct-to-stud, which is a more complex installation. This brings about the need to understand exactly the difference between Glue up vs. Direct to Stud shower surround.
How do you attach a shower surround to the wall?
Have someone help hold it in place while you check to see how it fits against the walls and the edge of the tub or shower base. Once the panel is oriented properly, drill pilot holes through the surround's flanges where the panel meets the center of the studs, and use nails or screws to secure it to the wall.
How to install drywall in shower?
drywall joint compound 1 Prepare the Shower Area " 2 Pre-Fit the Shower " 3 Mark and Drill Holes for the Valves " 4 Marking and Removing Panels " 5 Install the Base " 6 Insert and Attach the Back Panel " 7 Insert and Attach the Side Panels " 8 Install the Plumbing Panels " 9 Caulk and Seal " 10 Finish the Room " 11 Check Out the Finished Project "
Can you install a direct to stud shower on drywall?
Most tub and shower surrounds require direct-to-stud installation, which means you'll have to remove existing drywall in order to access the studs.
What does direct to stud shower mean?
In a typical remodeling project using a direct-to-studs surround kit, you first install a bathtub or shower base, then finish the wall with the surround kit, attaching the panels directly to the studs, with no need for drywall or cement board as a backer.
How do you drywall around a direct tub stud surround?
0:1610:16How to finish Drywall around tub or shower surround - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipA corner bracket a tearaway corner bracket with a two and a quarter inch flange. That actuallyMoreA corner bracket a tearaway corner bracket with a two and a quarter inch flange. That actually allows you to cover that up i've never used this product.
What goes behind shower walls?
Rigid air barrier materials for use behind showers and tubs include fiber-cement, fiber-reinforced gypsum, glass mat gypsum, or fiber mat-reinforced cementitious backer panels.
How do you fill the gap between shower surround and drywall?
1:513:53Drywall gaps around tub and shower surrounds, How to fix them - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipEverything needs something to bond to mix up some 20-minute speed set joint compound. And press itMoreEverything needs something to bond to mix up some 20-minute speed set joint compound. And press it into the gap keeping it flush with the drywall.
What do you put under shower base?
The best type of mortar to use underneath a shower base is a mixture of Portland cement and sand. This mortar will both support the weight of the shower and provide a barrier that helps prevent water damage to the floor underneath.
Do you need green board behind shower surround?
Non-paper-faced fiber-reinforced gypsum board, moisture-resistant gypsum board, or “green board” products are also not recommended behind tub surrounds (BSC 2009a).
Do you put drywall behind a shower surround?
0:111:28Do You Drywall Behind Tub & Shower Enclosures? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI do this behind the enclosure all the way up to get myself a nice level wall. And it works perfectMoreI do this behind the enclosure all the way up to get myself a nice level wall. And it works perfect and I get no water penetration ever in my bathtubs.
What kind of drywall do you use in a shower?
Green. Green drywall is a type of drywall that's mold resistant and is used in applications where moisture can be an issue—so most commonly, bathrooms. To maximize the mold resistance, use mold-resistant drywall mud, aka joint compound. Green drywall generally costs about 20% more than regular drywall.
Do I need cement board for shower walls?
Shower walls must be backed with a waterproof backing board. Drywall is not an acceptable backer board. Even moisture-resistant drywall (green or blue varieties) will not hold up in showers. Use a true cement backer board, or try a shower backer board kit like this one.
What is the best backer board for a shower?
Cement board is a good, reliable backer board that works well on both floors and walls. Keep in mind that most tile setters err on the side of caution and brush a waterproofing membrane on top of cement board when it is in wet areas like showers or tub surrounds.
Do you need insulation behind shower walls?
Insulating behind shower walls improves moisture control, which in turn reduces the chances of mold growth. Apart from retaining heat and minimizing condensation, insulating behind shower walls also provides better acoustics by reducing annoying sounds from outdoors or between rooms.
How many tubes of glue do I need for a tub surround?
Application Tips A typical surround will require approximately 3 tubes of adhesive for installation.
What is the best material for a tub surround?
AcrylicAcrylic. The overall winner when it comes to the best type of bathtub surround, acrylic has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. It's not difficult to understand why, especially when you consider the durability, beauty, low maintenance requirements, and cost-effectiveness of this material.
What kind of glue do you use for tub surround?
LIQUID NAILS Tub Surround and Shower Wall Adhesive (LN-915) works great for most plastic tub and shower enclosures. Provides a waterproof and durable bond under extreme conditions and won't harm most tub surrounds and shower walls.
How do you glue shower walls?
2:014:11How to Install a Glue-Up Shower Enclosure - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't want the adhesive to be thicker than an eighth of an inch align the back panel with theMoreYou don't want the adhesive to be thicker than an eighth of an inch align the back panel with the marks on the wall and press it into the wet adhesive. Use a roller to apply a lot of pressure.
How many pieces are needed for a shower surround?
Most tub and shower surrounds designed for remodeling applications come in three or five pieces to make installation in tight spaces easier. The surround kits designed for attachment to studs are usually made ...
What material is a shower surround made of?
The surround kits designed for attachment to studs are usually made of fiberglass or acrylic material that is quite sturdy, sometimes featuring built-in molded shelving. Make sure to read the instructions before installing any tub or shower surround.
What is the final panel of a shower?
The final panel is the one containing the plumbing fixtures; this is usually the front wall of the shower. Before installing this last panel, it will have to be drilled for the tub or shower valve and maybe a tub spout. Take measurements off of the back wall to the center of the valve, and off of the tub or shower base to the center of the valve.
What is an alcove shower enclosure?
An increasingly popular option for the alcove enclosures for bathtubs and showers is a surround kit that uses acrylic or fiberglass panels. This type of kit is cheaper and easier to install than ceramic tile wall enclosures and is remarkably easy to maintain. There are two types of installation for tub/shower surround kits: direct-to-studs ...
Do you need drywall for a shower surround?
In a typical remodeling project using a direct-to-studs surround kit, you first install a bathtub or shower base, then finish the wall with the surround kit, attaching the panels directly to the studs, with no need for drywall or cement board as a backer. If you don't already have exposed studs, the panels can be used as a template to outline an area of the wall where you will remove the drywall. These tub and shower surrounds have top, bottom, and side flanges that are screwed or nailed to the wall studs.
Can you void a warranty on a direct to stud shower?
You may void the warranty if it isn’t done according to the manufacturer's specifications. When buying a direct-to-stud surround, make sure that you get the right size for the width of tub or shower you have. This type of surround can't be trimmed to fit in the same way that is possible with adhesive-type surrounds.
Do you need a pry bar for demolition?
This is demolition work that may require a pry bar and reciprocating saw, depending on what type of wall surface is present . Often, it is best to cut out an area of wall slightly larger than the surround, because this makes it easier to anchor the flanges to the studs.
Why is it important to seal a shower enclosure?
To avoid moisture problems and preserve the integrity of your new unit, it’s extremely important to make sure your new shower enclosure is sealed properly. Since enclosures may vary, check your manufacturer’s instructions to see what type of sealing is required for your particular unit.
What is a flange in a shower?
These panels have flattened edges, called flanges, that can be nailed directly to the wall studs.
Do you need to cut holes for plumbing before dry fitting?
Before dry-fitting the remaining wall, you’ll first need to cut holes for the plumbing.
Is a bathroom a DIY project?
Bathrooms are the most common home renovation project tackled by homeowners. They’re also one of the most expensive and risky projects to DIY. If you are moderately skilled in home improvement projects and willing to take on a challenge, we’re here to help guide you through. Here are a few tips on how to install a direct-to-stud tub ...
Do you have to cut drywall for shower surround?
Most tub and shower surrounds require direct-to-stud installation, which means you’ll have to remove existing drywall in order to access the studs. We recommend cutting the drywall to roughly the size of the surround to save yourself time in patching walls when you’re finished with the installation. Once your drywall is cut, work your way ...
Prepare the Shower Area
Before attempting tub surround installation, check that your shower alcove is framed properly and in good condition. Walls should be square in both corners and plumb all the way around. Use a level to confirm this.
Pre-Fit the Shower
Dry fit your shower enclosure to make sure it’s sized properly for your space. Carefully place the shower base into the alcove. Use a level to make sure it’s even on all sides, and add shims if necessary to level it out. Place a piece of cardboard in the shower base to protect the finish.
Mark and Drill Holes for the Valves
Before dry-fitting the remaining wall, you’ll first need to cut holes for the plumbing.
Marking and Removing Panels
The flange is the part of the enclosure on the top and sides that will be attached to the studs.
Install the Base
To make leveling easier and provide additional reinforcement, place 3 or 4 mounds of gypsum plaster or bricklayer’s mortar on any low spots in the subfloor.
Insert and Attach the Back Panel
Before putting in the back and side panels, consider adding insulation and a vapor barrier. This is especially important if you live in a cold climate. Insulation will help deaden any noise made by the plumbing and insulate the outside walls from the cold.
Insert and Attach the Side Panels
Insert the side panel and make sure it is seated properly on the shower base.
Pros: Glue Up
The glue-up installation helps to achieve a flatter wall with less variance and less warping. It is also generally easier to install once prepared- we’ll discuss this in a while.
Pros: Direct to Stud Shower Surround
Direct to stud shower surround can be installed really fast. No preparation is needed as opposed to glue-up installation. You also don’t have to worry about water affecting what is behind it. The underlying materials are basically waterproof to keep the walls dry.
Glue Up Shower Surround: Installation Variations
With this option, shower wall panels may be designed or molded into a U-shape as a single unit for use in new construction.
Direct Up Shower Surround: Installation Variations
In a regular remodeling project with a direct-to-stud-kit, you first install a shower base or bathtub and then finish the wall with the surround kit. Attach the panels directly to the studs. Note that you don’t need a drywall cement board as in the case of glue up install.
Why is drywall not good for bathrooms?
Drywall on its own is not suitable for use in bathrooms because it is prone to absorbing moisture and thus losing structural integrity. Besides being structurally compromised, wet drywall can allow moisture into your house’s framework and cause long-term damage to your home.
Is drywall more difficult to install than regular drywall?
Best of all, these materials are not much more difficult to install than regular drywall, so you can still have the ease of installation that comes with drywall without the dangers of mold, mildew, and rot.
Is there a better option than drywall for a shower?
There Are Better Options Than Drywall for Your Bathroom. If you’re unsure whether the drywall in your bathroom has such a membrane, it is important to install one before you install your shower surround over drywall.
Can you put a moisture barrier on old drywall?
However, if you are going to go to the trouble of ripping down your old drywall to install a moisture barrier, it is probably worth it to simply install a better material in its place — like blueboard, greenboard, or concrete backing. These materials are far more suitable for wet areas.
Key Differences Between Glue Up And Direct To Stud Shower Surrounds
To know what’s different and whatnot, you need to know the foremost basic outlook of these two shower surroundings.
Which Shower Surround Is The Best Choice for Your House?
We already provided all the details of all the prime factors between Glue Up and Direct to Stud shower surrounds.
Pros And Cons Of Glue Up And Direct To Stud Shower Wall Surrounds
Some significant pros and cons comparison between Glue Up Vs Direct to Stud shower wall surrounds will help ease your leftover confusion.
