Replacing Your Tub Surround? Everything You Need to Know for a Successful DIY Bathroom Update

Is your plastic tub surround looking a little sad, with cracks, stains, and mildew that just won‘t budge? As a home improvement expert who has helped dozens of homeowners update their surrounds, I‘m here to walk you through this project from start to finish.

With the right approach, a few key tools, and a weekend of work, you can replace your outdated surround with a sparkling new one that will bring your bathroom back to life. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll share step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and things to look out for to ensure a smooth, successful DIY tub surround installation.

Choosing the Right Tub Surround Material

The first decision is choosing what material you want to update your surround with. Here‘s a quick comparison of your options:

Material	Cost	Durability	Ease of Cleaning
Acrylic	$$$	20+ years	High
Fiberglass	$$	15-20 years	High
Polystyrene	$	10-15 years	Moderate

As you can see, acrylic tub surrounds are worth the extra investment since they are extremely durable and easy to keep clean. I always recommend opting for acrylic if it fits within your budget.

Step 1: Remove the Old Surround

Before starting demo, be sure to turn off the water supply and drain the tub. Wear safety goggles, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself throughout the process.

To remove panels:

• Cut through any caulk sealing them using a utility knife. Go slowly to avoid scratching the tub.
• Locate the screws, liquid nails, or other adhesive fastening the panels.
• Carefully detach each panel, starting at the top and working down. Pry off with a putty knife or screwdriver.
• Dispose of the old panels according to local regulations. Many facilities accept fiberglass and plastic.

"Taking off the old surround was messy but satisfying! The plastic panels practically crumbled apart since the moisture had totally deteriorated them." – Lacy, DIYer

With the surround gone, take time to inspect the walls and plumbing. Look for leaks, damage, or any issues that need addressing before mounting the new panels.

Step 2: Prep the Installation Area

Now that the old surround is removed, proper prep ensures your new panels mount securely.

• Repair any damage to the drywall or wall surfaces.
• Use painter‘s tape and plastic sheeting to cover the tub and protect from drips.
• Ensure the walls are smooth, clean, and free of soap residue or oily film.
• Check that walls are plumb and surfaces are flat so panels sit flush.

Pro tip: Minor gaps or unevenness can be corrected using shims during installation, but it‘s best to remedy major issues beforehand.

Step 3: Dry Fit the New Panels

Always do a dry fit without any adhesive first. This allows you to:

• Ensure the sizing is accurate and the panels align properly
• Test fit-and-finish trims to see how they‘ll cover edges
• Make any adjustments before final mounting

Dry fitting first saves lots of headaches down the road!

Step 4: Apply Adhesive

With everything fitting perfectly in the test run, now add your adhesive. For the back wall panel:

• Run a continuous bead of panel adhesive around the perimeter of the back side.
• Or apply dots of adhesive every 4-6 inches across the entire back surface.

Follow the manufacturer‘s instructions for application amount and technique.

Pro tip: Most recommend panel adhesive, but you can also use silicone or polyurethane-based tub and tile caulk. Avoid standard latex-based caulks which can deteriorate over time.

Step 5: Mount the Back Panel

Once adhesive is applied, it‘s time to mount the main rear panel:

• Have a helper hold the panel centered and level against the wall.
• Starting at the top, press firmly at the center and smooth towards the edges to avoid trapping air.
• Work down the entire panel, applying even pressure across the surface.
• Immediately wipe away any adhesive that squeezes out along the seams using a damp rag or mineral spirits.

"I used a smoothing tool as I worked down which let me really put force across the whole surface. The panel stuck like glue!" – Mark, contractor

Repeat this process to install any adjoining side or front panels, using shims as needed to ensure seams are tight.

Step 6: Seal All Joints

Once the tub surround panels are securely mounted, it‘s crucial to seal:

• Perimeter edges where the panels meet the walls
• Seams where panels intersect
• Inside and outside corners

Use a flexible polyurethane caulk rated for kitchen and bath applications. Take your time applying a smooth, consistent bead that fully seals all edges and seams.

Caulking prevents water intrusion which can cause swelling, warping, and delamination over time.

Step 7: Finish the Outside Edges

For a clean, built-in look:

• Apply trim strips to cover panel edges around three sides.
• For the bottom, use an aluminum J-channel or L-channel.
• Carefully caulk each seam between trim pieces and panels.

Finishing the edges gives your surround a polished, high-end appearance.

Maintaining and Caring for Your New Surround

With proper care, an acrylic or fiberglass tub surround should last 15-25 years! Follow these maintenance tips:

• Use non-abrasive cleaners only. A homemade mix of vinegar and water works well for regular cleaning.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and scouring pads which can scratch the finish.
• Rinse off any soap residue immediately after bathing.
• Wipe spills right away to prevent staining.
• Re-apply fresh caulk every 1-2 years around the tub, faucet, and seams.
• Limit movement of hard, sharp objects near the tub. Dropping items can chip or crack the surround.

Routine cleaning and sealing will keep your surround looking like the day it was installed!

DIY Tub Surround Replacement – Cost Breakdown

Here‘s a realistic cost breakdown for a DIY tub surround project:

• Acrylic surround kit (walls + front) – $300-700
• Adhesive and caulk – $50
• Basic tools if needed – $50
• Total: $400-800

As you can see, replacing the surround yourself is very affordable, saving at least 50% over pro installation which can cost $1,000-2,000. And you get the satisfaction of a successful DIY!

Expert Tips to Ensure Tub Surround Installation Success

After helping dozens of fellow DIYers with their tub surround projects, here are my top pro tips:

• Choose acrylic or fiberglass for maximum durability and water resistance.

• Dry fit panels first before adhering to check sizing and alignment.

• Take your time applying adhesive for full coverage and a strong bond.

• Thoroughly seal all seams and edges with a flexible polyurethane caulk.

• Protect walls, floors, and the tub during demo – things will get messy!

• Wear protective gear like goggles, gloves, and a N95 safety mask. Dangerous fumes can be released cutting fiberglass.

• Ventilate the bathroom well and turn on fans to avoid inhaling particulates.

• Be prepared for existing hidden issues behind walls to crop up – budget and schedule accordingly.

• Watch online video tutorials to visualize the process before tackling yourself.

With the right materials, safety precautions, and techniques, you can achieve gorgeous, spa-worthy results and check DIY tub surround replacement off your home improvement bucket list!

Ready to Refresh Your Bathroom?

I hope this complete tub surround replacement guide gives you the confidence to take on this project yourself and save a bundle in the process. Remember, the key is proper planning, high-quality materials, meticulous installation, and sealing all seams completely.

If you commit to following each step and don‘t cut corners, you‘ll be thrilled when you reveal your brand new, luxurious-looking tub surround. No more ugly mildew stains or splintering plastic!

As a fellow DIYer, I‘m always happy to answer any other questions you may have. Just shoot me an email and I‘ll be glad to help you create the bathroom of your dreams.

You‘ve got this!