Installing tub or shower surround panels with adhesive can give your bathroom a quick and easy makeover. These panels provide a waterproof, low-maintenance alternative to tile without the hassle of demolition or re-tiling. With some preparation and the right techniques, DIY installation of surround panels is totally doable. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before starting any project, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials and tools. Here’s what you’ll need to install tub or shower surround panels:
Materials
- Surround panels – Match the size of your tub or shower area. Options include plastic, acrylic, or composite panels.
- Adhesive – Panel adhesive designed for bath surrounds. Look for waterproof formulations.
- Sealant – 100% silicone caulk for sealing edges and joints. Match the color to your panels.
- Backerboard – Cement backerboard panels to create a waterproof base (if there is no existing waterproof surface).
- Fasteners – Screws for securing backerboard and trim pieces. Corrosion-resistant options are best.
- Trim – Matching trim pieces to finish panel edges around windows, doors, and corners.
Tools
- Safety gear – Gloves, eye protection, knee pads
- Utility knife – For cutting panels and trim to size
- Circular saw – For cutting backerboard (if needed)
- Drill/driver – Cordless drill for installing backerboard and trim
- Hole saw – For drilling plumbing holes in panels
- Level – To ensure panels are plumb
- Tape measure
- Caulk gun
- Grout float – For pressing panels into adhesive
- Silicone smoothing tool – To smooth silicone caulk
With all your supplies gathered, you can start prepping for installation.
Preparing Wall Surfaces
Proper prep is crucial for getting panels to adhere correctly. Follow these steps:
Remove Existing Materials
If the old tub surround is tile, fiberglass, or another material, completely remove it. Use a putty knife, hammer, and pry bar to take off tile. For fiberglass, a circular saw with a specialty blade works well. Wear safety goggles and gloves during demo.
Once removed, inspect the wall to ensure it’s in good condition for new panels. Look for moisture damage, mold, or drywall in poor shape. Address any issues before moving on.
Create a Waterproof Base
Surround panels require a waterproof substrate to adhere to. Cement backerboard is ideal. If walls are already cement board or watertight acrylic, they can be used as-is.
Measure and cut cement board panels to size using a circular saw. Apply waterproof cement board adhesive to studs and screw panels in place. Seal seams with silicone caulk.
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Use a detergent solution to wash walls and scrub off any grime or residue from old materials. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
Wipe down the entire surface with denatured alcohol just prior to installation. This removes any remaining soap scum or oils for best adhesion.
How to Cut Surround Panels
Surround panels must be cut to fit your exact tub or shower dimensions. Follow these steps for trimming panels accurately:
Measure Precisely
Use a tape measure to carefully measure the length and height of each wall surface from multiple points. Transfer measurements to panels and double check for accuracy.
Mark Cut Lines
Use a square and pencil to mark straight cut lines on the backside of panels. For notches around plumbing, hold panel up to wall and trace outline.
Cut with a Utility Knife
Place panel on a cutting mat or flat scrap wood. Use a sharp utility knife and metal straightedge to score cut lines several times.
Break panel along score line by gently bending. Make any final trims needed with knife.
For plumbing cutouts, drill a starter hole inside outline first with a 1/8″ bit. Saw out hole staying just inside pencil line.
Be extremely careful handling cut panels to avoid cracking corners or edging. Also have edge trim pieces ready to protect raw edges.
Applying Adhesive for Surround Panel Installation
With measured and cut panels, it’s time for adhesive application. Be sure to:
- Carefully follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for setup, use, and cure times.
- Apply adhesive in a zig-zag pattern using the recommended trowel size.
- Spread adhesive evenly over the entire back of the panel in a thin, consistent layer.
- Immediately install panels after applying adhesive for best bond strength.
- Press panels firmly to spread adhesive evenly and remove air bubbles.
- Use provided braces or tape panels until adhesive cures fully.
- Never apply adhesive to the wall surface. Always adhesive the back of the panel itself.
Pro tip: Wipe away any excess squeezed out adhesive immediately using a damp sponge and water.
Installing Surround Panels in Sequence
The proper install sequence is important for getting seams right. In general, follow this order:
1. Back Wall Panels
Start by installing the back wall panel first since it provides support for side walls. Cut plumbing holes if needed.
2. Side Wall Panels
Measure and cut side wall panels to overlap back panel. Apply adhesive and install.
3. Corner Joints and Seams
Once joined, use trim and silicone caulk to finish inside corners and seams between panels.
4. Bottom Edges
Cut panels for front walls to proper height allowing for tub lip or threshold. Adhere front panels last.
Be sure to press each panel firmly into adhesive as you go for a strong bond and no gaps between panels.
Finishing Panel Edges and Joints
For a seamless look, install matching trim pieces between panels and at exposed edges:
- Inside corners – Use color-matched corner trim mitered at 45 degrees to create a clean finish.
- Panel seams – Install J-channel or other seam trim over the joint between panels using silicone adhesive.
- Raw edges – Apply L-trim or end caps to any exposed panel edges. Mitre trim at corners.
- Bottom edge – Run bottom trim piece flat across bottom of installed panels. Seal bottom seam with caulk.
After installing trim, run a smooth bead of silicone caulk along all joints and let cure completely. Wipe away any excess.
Tips for a Successful Installation
Follow these tips and tricks to ensure your surround panel project goes smoothly:
- Carefully double check all measurements before cutting. Measure twice, cut once!
- Work slowly and methodically. Don’t rush through cutting or adhesive application steps.
- Have a helper for holding panels, drilling holes, and smoothing adhesive.
- Acclimate panels to room temperature for 24-48 hours before installing to prevent buckling.
- Make sure walls are plumb and level so panels mount flush without gaps.
- Let adhesive fully cure for 24-48 hours after install before using shower.
- Avoid cleaning panels with abrasive cleaners. Use mild soap and water only.
- Use silicone caulk to re-seal any joints or gaps that develop over time to prevent moisture intrusion.
Troubleshooting Common Surround Panel Issues
Despite careful installation, issues can sometimes pop up. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
Panels buckling – Walls not plumb. Shim any gaps between wall and panel.
Joints separating – Insufficient adhesive. Re-caulk gaps with silicone.
Leaking at plumbing – Seal holes with additional caulk.
Mold or mildew – Improve ventilation. Clean with bleach solution.
Discoloration – Chemical reaction with cleaners. Use only mild detergent.
Wall moisture damage – Seal joint/edge leaks immediately. Upgrade to cement board.
With attention to detail during installation and proper care, surround panels can last for many years of quality service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Surround Panels
What kind of adhesive should I use?
Use a panel adhesive made specifically for surround panel installation. Liquid Nails and Loctite both make reliable waterproof panel adhesives.
How long does the adhesive take to cure?
Adhesive cure times vary by product but are generally 24-48 hours. Avoid using the shower until the adhesive has fully cured.
Do I need to seal the panels?
100% silicone caulk should be used to seal all seams, edges, joints, and trim pieces. This prevents moisture getting behind panels.
What do I do about corners?
Use color-matched corner trim pieces to cover inside corners between walls. Miter edges at 45 degrees for a pro finish.
Can I install surround panels over existing tile?
No, panels require a smooth flat surface to adhere properly. All existing tile or fiberglass must be removed down to the studs or cement board.
Do I need to replace drywall before installing panels?
If existing drywall is in good condition with no leaks or damage, you can install cement board right over it to create a waterproof surface for panels.
How are the panels cut?
Use a very sharp utility knife and metal straightedge to score the backside of the panel multiple times then snap the panel along the scored line. Make final trims with knife.
How do I clean surround panels?
Use a mild detergent and soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, pads, or materials that could scratch the surface.
Conclusion
Installing tub or shower surround panels with adhesive is a relatively straightforward DIY project that can give your bathroom an instant facelift. With proper planning, materials, and installation technique, you can achieve results on par with professional installation.
Carefully prep the wall surface, measure precisely for cuts, apply adhesive properly, and take care finishing edges and seams. Following the steps outlined above will help avoid any pitfalls and ensure your new surround panels serve faithfully for many years.
The end result will be a fresh new look with no sign of grout or caulk. Just wipe clean as needed. With a long lifespan and waterproof surface, adhesive panels are a smart upgrade over tile, fiberglass, or acrylic surrounds. Just take your time and relish the satisfaction of a DIY bathroom transformation.