How to Install Tub or Shower Surround Panels With Adhesive

Prepare the Walls

Adhesive surround kits can be installed over just about any flat wall surface in good condition. But because the panels are glued, the walls need to be clean so that the adhesive will make good contact. Walls that are damaged will also need to be patched first.

After cleaning and repairing the wall surfaces, remove all the handles and trim work for the tub and shower valves. Using a utility knife and plastic putty knife, cut caulk seals around the tub or shower base and scrape away the old caulk. Chemical caulk remover can help remove any stubborn caulk residue. To properly install the new wall panels, you will need smooth, flat edges on the bathtub or shower base.

Draw a level line around the three walls at a height marking the top edge of the surround panels. This may vary depending on your kit; most use panels that rise to about 72 to 80 inches above the floor. When finished, you should have guidelines drawn on three walls.

Test-Fit the Panels

If you are lucky, the panels of the surround kit will fit the existing space perfectly, since they are typically sized to fit stock bathtub and shower bases. But it is also possible you will need to trim panels to fit, so it's critical that you test-fit the surround panels before you begin the installation.

Set the panel for the back wall (the wall opposite the faucet valves) against the wall, with the top edge flush against the level guideline drawn on the wall. Tape the panel in place with strips of masking tape.

Next, place the side panel, then the front panel on the walls, using masking tape. If faucet and shower stems are extending out of the wall, this may require that you cut the holes for the front panel at this time (see below).

Check the fit of the panels along all edges. It's not uncommon for a tub or shower base to be out of level, so if necessary, you may need to trim the bottom of the panels and make adjustments to fit.

Cut the Panels, if Necessary

If the test-fitting process shows that cutting is necessary, use masking tape to mark cutting lines on the panels. Remove the panels, then use a jigsaw with a fine-tooth panel blade to cut the panels to the necessary size. When finished, smooth any rough edges with sandpaper.

Test-fit again to make sure all panels fit.

Cut Holes for the Faucet and Shower

Cutting holes for the faucet and shower head requires careful measurement of the front wall, then transferring those measurements to the front surround panel.

On the plumbing wall, note the horizontal and vertical distances of the faucet stems and shower head stub-out, measuring from the wall corner and from the edge of the tub or shower base. Transfer these measurements to the front surround panel.

Use a drill and hole saws to cut holes for the faucet valves and shower head on the front surround panel. The holes should be large enough for the valve stems to fit easily, but small enough that the trim plates (escutcheons) will completely cover the holes. Some pros like to cut holes with the drill set to reverse rotation because this makes for cutouts with smoother edges.

Test fit all panels one last time to make sure they fit perfectly into the alcove.

Apply Adhesive to the Back Wall

Begin the installation of the back wall—the one opposite the faucet valves.

Using a panel adhesive specially designed for your type of panels, apply zig-zag beads of caulk over the back wall. Then, use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly over the wall surface. Make sure to keep the adhesive inside the marked lines.

Position the First Panel

Carefully position the back panel and press it against the wall so the entire panel makes contact with the adhesive. Pull the panel slightly away from the wall for about 30 seconds. This allows the solvents in the adhesive to slightly dissipate and improves adhesion.

Press the panel back firmly against the wall to adhere to it. Use a damp rag to wipe down the face of the panel and ensure that all portions of the panel are firmly bedded in the adhesive.

Position the Remaining Panels

Repeat the previous steps for the remaining surround panels, following the particular instructions of your kit. Some 5-panel kits are designed so that the corner panels are installed after the flat panels are in place. In this instance, a bead of silicone is usually applied over the back edges of the corner panels before they are pressed into place. These corner panels typically overlap the edges of the flat panels.

Caulk the Joints

Let the panel adhesive dry for at least 24 hours, then use a high-quality silicone kitchen/bath caulk to seal around the top of the surround panels, the seams between the panels, and the bottom edge where the panels meet the tub or shower base. Smooth out the caulk bead, and use a damp cloth to remove any residue from the surface of the panels and from the tub or shower base.

Finish the Installation

Install the shower handles, shower head, tub spout, and escutcheon plates according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that escutcheons cover the holes, then caulk around the fixtures.

Install the shower rod and curtain (or the shower door). Wait another 24 hours for the caulk to fully cure before using your tub or shower.