Bathtub surrounds
Stylish Ideas & Practical Tips
Installing a bathtub surround
How to properly install a bathtub surround also depends on the type of bathtub you have. If your bathtub has a support frame, the surround can be attached directly to it. If, on the other hand, your bathtub has legs, there are two particularly common methods:
Bath mat
Installing a bathtub skirt is a particularly easy way to cover your bathtub. Since these are sold ready-made, you simply need to make sure it is compatible with your existing bathtub. Installation is then carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Plan blocks
Planblock tiles offer a durable solution. The advantage here is that you can customize them to fit your tub and the specific layout perfectly. If, for example, you’re planning to tile a Corner bathtub that’s set into a niche, this custom solution is often the best option. Here’s how to proceed:
Step 1
First, check the exact measurements and make sure all the pipes are completely sealed. To do this, fill the tub with water.
Step 2
Cut the concrete blocks to size according to the measurements you have taken.
Step 3
You can now install the stones using thin-set mortar or concrete adhesive. Start with the bottom row, working from one corner to the other.
Overview of Materials
Once the foundation for the bathtub surround has been laid, the question arises as to which material is best suited. There are a whole range of options here:
Tiles
A classic look that fits perfectly into most bathrooms. Tiling around a Bathtub is done just like regular tiling. The advantages include the usual durability and moisture resistance.
Vinyl
If you're going for a seamless bathroom, you should cover the bathtub without tiles. Vinyl is a versatile material for this purpose, as it can be easily adapted to different styles and is well-suited for wet areas. Additionally, covering the bathtub with vinyl creates a particularly seamless transition between the floor and the tub.
Wood & Wood-Look Finishes
Cladding a bathtub with wood is particularly well-suited for a natural-style bathroom, as it creates a lively, warm atmosphere. If you’re primarily concerned with aesthetics rather than using real wood in the bathroom, you can opt for a wood-look bathtub cladding instead.
Natural stone
Natural stone or porcelain tile create a rustic yet cozy look in the bathroom. This creates a lively atmosphere that also pairs beautifully with plants.
Style Worlds – Ideas & Inspiration
The right material should be chosen not only for practical reasons but also for aesthetic ones. There are numerous ideas for cladding a Bathtub. The following are particularly effective:
Industrial style
Combined with dark faucets and metal accents, the bathtub can become a real eye-catcher in an industrial-style bathroom. A concrete-look finish is a great choice for the tub surround. For a loft-style look, a brick-look finish is also a good alternative.
Natural & warm
Wood and organic shapes give the tub surround a cozy charm. This makes it a particularly good fit for a Japanese or Scandinavian bathroom.
Luxurious
If you're looking for a bathtub surround for a luxury bathroom, marble is a classic choice. In addition to the material, you should also consider additional features such as niches and built-in lighting to make the tub a visual highlight.
