How to Remodel a Tub Surround
- 1). Turn off the water to the bathroom.
- 2). Place a piece of cardboard in the bottom of the tub. Cover the rest of the tub with the drop cloths to protect the tub from scratches and damage during the tile installation.
- 3). Remove the existing tub surround. Work carefully with a hammer and a pry bar to remove the tile, fiberglass or plastic tub surround.
- 4). Measure the tub surround. Transfer the measurements to the cement backerboard. Cut the backerboard to size with the utility knife. Screw the backerboard into the wall studs with exterior-grade screws and a drill with a driver bit, or a screwdriver. Seal the backerboard seams with fiberglass mesh tape and a smooth coat of thin-set mortar, applied with the trowel. Allow the mortar to dry overnight.
- 5). Place the tiles on the floor to determine your layout. Make a pencil mark on the backerboard where you will start laying the tile.
- 6). Spread the thin-set mortar on the wall with a notched trowel. Press the tiles into place in the mortar. Begin at the bottom of the wall above the tub and work up. Place tile spacers in between the tiles. Cut tiles with a tile cutter as needed. Tile the entire surround. Let the mortar dry for 24 hours.
- 7). Spread grout over the tiles with a rubber grout float. Remove the extra grout from the top of the tiles with a dampened grout sponge. Let the grout dry for 24 to 48 hours.
- 8). Spread a bead of caulk along the gap between the surround and the tub. Smooth the grout with your finger. Allow the caulk to dry overnight.
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