I am installing a 5 piece shower surround and have a couple questions?
Question:1) Do the pannels come with a 'curved lip' at the top so they can 'hook' over the existing tile, or are they flat?
2) Where the panels meet the tub, is plain caulk okay to seal this edge, or is there a better method?
3) The existing shower wall has an old brass plated, recessed soap dish that will have to come out. Once I yank it out, do I need to plug the hole or just cover it over with the surround?
4) Once installed, what is the best cleaner to keep the surround clean? I know Comet would scratch it.
This job is to cover some really ugly, but VERY study existing tile from like the 60's. There are no leaks in the tile, nor cracks. I just want to cover that hideous color. The tub is in excellent shape.
Any other tips, thoughts or trick you may have would be appriciated. We're selling the house in a year and I want to do the job right the first time.
Answers:
1. No, the panels are normally always flat. Trim will be needed but is not necessary.
2. Never use plain caulk. Use only 100% silicon caulk here. It does not need to be paintable. Some come with chemicals to block mold growth as well.
3. You do not need to plug the hole if it is small and will not create a flex point that will weaken the panel.
4. The units usually have cleaning instructions that come with them. Follow those instructions, but never use an abrasive on smooth surfaces.
This job can be harder than it looks. Cutting holes for a shower head and tub tap, getting the sides to lay flat, keeping it square around the corners, etc. Take your time and use the right tool for the different jobs and you can make it work.
Another option you may want to consider is to have the tile refinished or put in a one piece "slip over" enclosure which would cover the tile and tub in one seamless application.
the panels will be flat, I'm assuming that you have(looking at the tub surround) a right, 1 in the middle and shelves for each corner making 5 pieces. you will have to make sure that the adhesive you use gets a little tacking before laying the panels into the adhesive, don't rush the work or the panels can become uneven. to be safe i would put something in the area where you are removing the soap dish. you will have to seal the shelv areas against the other panels use a 100% silicone. Home depot has a good one that I have used it's in a tube I believe it's made by GE 100% silicone II. make sure everything is completely dry or the adhesive and silicone won't work. I beleive and you can check with whom you bought the surround but i think GEL GLOSS will clean the surround.
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