Tub surround replacement in Dallas: new walls around the tub you keep

Acrylic and Solid-Surface Panel Surrounds

Panel surrounds cover the three walls with a few large sheets instead of hundreds of grout joints, so there is almost nothing to regrout. Acrylic panels are light and quick; solid-surface panels are thicker, feel more like stone and can be trimmed to fit out-of-square walls. We still replace soft board and seal the substrate before the panels go up, and every joint and the tub edge are sealed with the manufacturer's system. Most panel surrounds are finished in two or three days.

Planning range, bathtub surround installation: $1,112 to $2,099 per surround before premium tile.

Tiled Surround Over New Backer Board

A tiled surround gives the widest choice of size, color and pattern. The old tile and board come off, cement board or foam board goes on the studs, and a sheet or liquid membrane is lapped down over the tub flange so water running down the wall ends up in the tub, not behind it. Porcelain is set with full thinset coverage, grouted and sealed, and the edges are finished with trim. Expect four to five days including cure time for the membrane and grout.

Surround With Niches and Grab Bar Blocking

With the walls open, it costs little to add what the old surround lacked. A recessed niche between the studs replaces a hanging caddy, and solid blocking behind the tile lets grab bars go in now or later without drilling into hollow board. We can also move the valve up for a taller showerhead, add a handheld on a slide bar, or replace a worn valve while the wall is open. Niches are waterproofed as part of the same membrane.