How can I install an easy metal tub/shower surround?

tub is in place but that's all. Need a super easy tutorial on what we need to do now.

  5 answers
  • You need to follow local building code. Check with your local permit office for details. Google and You Tube have many tutorials. Here are a few to get you started. Last thing you want is a leak and hidden mold growth which can be deadly.


    https://youtu.be/_TEVf4DubtI


    https://youtu.be/yR0kA8WAPBk


    https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/a164/1275886/

  • Lisa S. Lisa S. on Jul 16, 2019

    When you purchase the tub surround, it should come with instruction s specific to it.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 16, 2019

    You wrote “metal” tub surround. If you mean enameled cast iron like some tubs, they’re not available and would be impossibly heavy.

    Drip edges & flashing are critical details in this case. Does your tub have “flanges” to accommodate “back washing” of water where the panels meet the tub?

    If not, you’ll need to invest some time into different silicone caulk products’ abilities to be put under those panel edges as they’re being installed and then add more silicone to the exposed front.

    • Ramona Graves Sprenkle Ramona Graves Sprenkle on Jul 18, 2019

      Galvanized sheet metal or roofing metal panels. My tub does have flanges to help with water splash. Wondering if we need to put up a water barrier of some kind behind the sheets of metal? Should all of this be up before the actual fixtures are installed? Told you, needs to be easy peasy cause I don't know what I'm doing.

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Jul 17, 2019

    I've seen pictures of galvanized metal panels used for various projects. Something like that? I always thought rust would be a problem in a wet area.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 18, 2019

    This forum is known for frugality.

    Interior Shower enclosures are not the place to save $80, believe me.


    Water will wick into the drywall, toxic mold will form, rust stains running down will never end and eventually the studs & flooring will rot from mold. Galvanized steel isn’t galvanized on cut edges & drill holes.


    Why believe me?

    I was hospitalized for mold poisoning. It cost me $11K to have the previous owner’s faulty work removed & treated for mold. That’s not including what it cost to rebuild it.

    I’ve been in the architecture & construction industry for 30 years. Trust me, you don’t want metal in your shower.


    Read about Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic panels. They’re not expensive, but you must cut them outside, use the factory spec’s adhesive, use the factory trim pieces & make sure you understand drip flashing procedures. It will cost you less than ceramic tile.