5 Easy Ways to Decorate a Tub Surround

The lavatory is a sanctuary, a spot to calm down and rejuvenate after an extended day. Some of the essential components a WC is the tub, and the encompass could make all of the distinction within the general feel and appear of the house. Nonetheless, adorning a bathtub encompass could be a daunting process, particularly should you’re undecided the place to begin. Listed below are just a few suggestions that will help you get began:

First, think about the model of your toilet. If in case you have a conventional toilet, you may need to select a encompass that’s manufactured from pure supplies, reminiscent of marble or tile. If in case you have a extra modern toilet, you may need to select a encompass that’s manufactured from a extra fashionable materials, reminiscent of glass or metallic. After you have chosen a cloth, you can begin to consider the design. If you need a traditional look, you may need to select a encompass that’s easy and chic. If you need a extra fashionable look, you may need to select a encompass that’s extra elaborate and attention-grabbing.

Lastly, do not forget the ending touches. Just a few well-chosen equipment can actually make a bathtub encompass pop. For instance, you may need to add a bathe curtain that enhances the encompass. You may additionally need to add just a few candles or vegetation to create a extra spa-like environment. With somewhat planning and energy, you possibly can create a bathtub encompass that’s each stunning and practical.

Putting in Backer Board

Backer board gives a strong, waterproof base on your tub encompass. It helps to forestall moisture from penetrating the wall and damaging the framing. There are two principal kinds of backer board: cement board and drywall. Cement board is extra waterproof than drywall, however it’s also costlier and tough to chop.

To put in backer board, following these steps :

Measure and minimize the backer board. Measure the world you need to cowl and minimize the backer board to measurement. Use a straight edge and a utility knife to make clear cuts.
Apply thin-set mortar to the wall. Utilizing a notched trowel, apply a layer of thin-set mortar to the wall. The mortar ought to be unfold evenly and ought to be about 1/4 inch thick.
Press the backer board into the mortar. Place the backer board onto the mortar and press it into place. Use a degree to make sure that the backer board is flat and sq..
Safe the backer board with screws. Drive screws via the backer board and into the wall studs. The screws ought to be spaced about 6 inches aside.
Let the mortar dry. Enable the mortar to dry utterly earlier than continuing. This will likely take a number of hours or in a single day.

Sort of Backer Board	Benefits	Disadvantages
Cement board	Waterproof	Sturdy	Costly
Drywall	Cheaper	Straightforward to chop	Not as waterproof as cement board

Making use of Thinset Mortar

Thinset mortar is a kind of adhesive used to put in ceramic and porcelain tile. It’s produced from a combination of cement, sand, and water, and it’s utilized to the again of the tile earlier than it’s set in place. Thinset mortar gives a robust bond between the tile and the substrate, and it additionally helps to degree the tile and stop it from cracking.

To use thinset mortar, you will want the next instruments and supplies:

Notched trowel
Thinset mortar
Bucket
Sponge

To use thinset mortar, observe these steps:

Combine the thinset mortar in accordance with the producer’s directions. The mortar ought to be blended till it’s clean and creamy, and it ought to be thick sufficient to carry its form while you apply it to the again of the tile.
Apply the thinset mortar to the again of the tile utilizing a notched trowel. The notches within the trowel will assist to unfold the mortar evenly and to create a robust bond between the tile and the substrate.
Set the tile in place on the substrate. Press the tile firmly into the mortar to make sure a great bond.
Use a sponge to wash up any extra mortar from the floor of the tile. The mortar ought to be cleaned up as quickly as doable to forestall it from hardening.

Here’s a desk summarizing the steps for making use of thinset mortar:

Step	Description
1	Combine the thinset mortar in accordance with the producer’s directions.
2	Apply the thinset mortar to the again of the tile utilizing a notched trowel.
3	Set the tile in place on the substrate.
4	Use a sponge to wash up any extra mortar from the floor of the tile.

Setting the Tile

Some of the widespread methods to brighten a bathtub encompass is with tile. Tile is a flexible materials that can be utilized to create a wide range of seems to be, from traditional to fashionable. Additionally it is sturdy and simple to wash, making it a terrific selection for a loo.

To set tile, you will want the next supplies:

Tile
Skinny-set mortar
Grout
Trowel
Grout float
Tile spacers

After you have gathered your supplies, you possibly can start setting the tile.

Put together the floor. The floor you’re tiling have to be clear, clean, and freed from particles. If the floor shouldn’t be degree, you could must degree it utilizing a self-leveling compound.
Apply the thin-set mortar. Utilizing a trowel, apply a skinny layer of thin-set mortar to the floor. Be sure you unfold the mortar evenly and work in small sections.
Set the tile. Place the tile on the mortar and press it down firmly. Use tile spacers to make sure that the tiles are evenly spaced.
Grout the tiles. As soon as the tiles are set, you possibly can apply grout to the joints between them. Grout is a skinny, cement-based materials that may assist to seal the joints and maintain water from seeping via.
Clear the tiles. As soon as the grout has dried, you possibly can clear the tiles with a humid sponge. Be sure you take away all the extra grout from the floor of the tiles.

Tile Sort	Execs	Cons
Ceramic	Sturdy, simple to wash, vast number of types and colours accessible	Could be chilly and laborious underfoot
Porcelain	Sturdy, waterproof, stain resistant	Dearer than ceramic
Pure Stone	Lovely, distinctive, sturdy	Could be costly, requires sealing
Glass	Modern, fashionable, simple to wash	Could be fragile, tough to put in
Metallic	Sturdy, waterproof, rust resistant	Could be costly, could be chilly and laborious underfoot

Grouting the Tile

As soon as the tiles are in place, it is time to grout them. Grout is a paste-like materials that fills the areas between the tiles and helps to maintain them in place. It additionally helps to seal the tiles and stop water from seeping via.

To grout the tiles, you will want the next supplies:

Grout
Grout float
Bucket of water
Sponge

Comply with these steps to grout the tiles:

Combine the grout in accordance with the producer’s directions.
Apply the grout to the tiles utilizing a grout float.
Work the grout into the areas between the tiles, ensuring to fill them utterly.
Take away any extra grout from the tiles utilizing a sponge.
Enable the grout to dry for twenty-four hours.
As soon as the grout is dry, seal it with a grout sealer. This may assist to guard the grout from stains and mildew.

Grouting the tile is an easy course of, however it’s essential to take your time and do it accurately. If the grout shouldn’t be utilized accurately, it may well crack or crumble, which is able to enable water to seep via and injury the tiles.

Grout Sort	Really useful Use
Sanded Grout	For joints wider than 1/8 inch
Unsanded Grout	For joints narrower than 1/8 inch
Epoxy Grout	For prime-traffic areas or areas which can be uncovered to water

Sealing the Floor

As soon as the caulk is utilized, it is time to seal the floor. This may assist to guard the caulk from moisture and mildew, and it’ll additionally give it a completed look. There are a number of several types of sealants accessible, so select one that’s particularly designed to be used with caulk.

To use the sealant, merely observe the producer’s directions. Be sure you apply the sealant evenly and in a skinny layer. As soon as the sealant has been utilized, enable it to dry utterly earlier than utilizing the bathe or bathtub.

Ideas for Sealing the Floor

Listed below are just a few suggestions for sealing the floor of your tub encompass:

Use a high-quality sealant.
Apply the sealant evenly and in a skinny layer.
Enable the sealant to dry utterly earlier than utilizing the bathe or bathtub.
Reapply the sealant each few years to maintain it contemporary.
If you happen to see any mildew or mildew rising on the sealant, clear it off instantly with a bleach answer.

Desk of Sealant Varieties

Sort of Sealant	Execs	Cons
Silicone	– Waterproof – Versatile – Sturdy	– Could be tough to use – Could be costly
Acrylic	– Straightforward to use – Cheap – Not as sturdy as silicone	– Not as waterproof as silicone – Can yellow over time
Latex	– Straightforward to use – Cheap – Not as sturdy as silicone or acrylic	– Not waterproof – Can crack over time

Including Accents

Accent items are the ending touches that take your tub encompass decor from unusual to extraordinary. Listed below are just a few concepts for including accents to your tub encompass:

Crops

Crops add a contact of nature and freshness to any house. Select vegetation which can be tolerant to humidity and low gentle, reminiscent of ferns, succulents, or orchids. Place your vegetation on a shelf or in a planter on the ground.

Candles

Candles create a heat and welcoming environment. Select candles with scents that promote leisure, reminiscent of lavender or chamomile. Place candles on the counter, on the ground, or in a candle holder on the wall.

Paintings

Paintings can add a private contact to your tub encompass. Select art work that displays your model and pursuits. Hold art work on the wall, place it on a shelf, or lean it in opposition to the wall.

Mirrors

Mirrors could make a small house really feel bigger and brighter. Place a mirror on the wall above the bathtub or on the counter. You may also use a mirror as an ornamental accent by putting it on a shelf or leaning it in opposition to the wall.

Storage Baskets

Storage baskets are a good way to maintain your toilet organized and tidy. Select baskets which can be produced from supplies which can be proof against moisture, reminiscent of plastic or wicker. Place baskets on the ground, on a shelf, or in a cupboard.

Towels

Towels are an important a part of any toilet. Select towels which can be mushy, absorbent, and sturdy. Hold towels on a towel rack, on a hook, or on a shelf.

Tub Mats

Tub mats assist to forestall slips and falls. Select a shower mat that’s produced from a cloth that’s non-slip and absorbent. Place a shower mat on the ground exterior of the bathtub.

Sustaining Your Tub Encompass

Common upkeep is essential to maintain your tub encompass trying its greatest and stop expensive repairs down the street. Listed below are some suggestions for sustaining your tub encompass:

1. Clear Usually

Use a gentle cleansing answer and a mushy fabric to wipe down your tub encompass repeatedly. Keep away from harsh chemical substances or abrasive cleaners, as these can injury the floor.

2. Forestall Stains

Clear up spills and splashes instantly to forestall them from staining your tub encompass. If a stain does happen, take away it promptly with an appropriate cleansing product.

3. Keep away from Harsh Chemical compounds

By no means use harsh chemical substances, reminiscent of bleach or ammonia, to wash your tub encompass. These chemical substances can injury the floor and trigger discoloration.

4. Seal Usually

The grout between your tiles can entice moisture and dust, resulting in mildew and mildew progress. To forestall this, seal the grout repeatedly with an appropriate sealant.

5. Use Bathe Curtains or Doorways

Bathe curtains or doorways assist maintain water from splashing onto your tub encompass. This may also help stop water injury and marking.

6. Restore Cracks or Chips Promptly

If you happen to discover any cracks or chips in your tub encompass, restore them promptly to forestall water from seeping behind the tiles.

7. Defend from Moisture

Moisture is the enemy of tub surrounds. Maintain your tub encompass dry through the use of a fan or opening a window when showering.

8. Verify for Leaks

Verify your tub encompass repeatedly for leaks. Leaks may cause water injury and mildew progress.

9. Deep Cleansing and Grout Refresh

Each few months or as wanted, give your tub encompass a deep cleansing. This includes utilizing a stronger cleansing answer and a stiff brush to take away any cussed dust or cleaning soap scum. You may additionally need to refresh the grout by making use of a brand new coat of sealant. Here is a extra detailed information for deep cleansing and grout refreshing:

Step	Directions
1	Combine an answer of 1 half white vinegar to 1 half water in a sprig bottle.
2	Spray the answer onto the bathtub encompass and let it sit for quarter-hour.
3	Scrub the bathtub encompass with a stiff brush.
4	Rinse the bathtub encompass totally with clear water.
5	Apply a brand new coat of grout sealant to the grout traces.
6	Let the sealant dry for twenty-four hours earlier than utilizing the bathtub.

Troubleshooting Widespread Issues

Tiling Round Corners

To tile round corners, minimize the tiles at a 45-degree angle utilizing a moist noticed. Be certain that the cuts are clear and exact for a seamless end.

Sort of Tile	Chopping Software	Chopping Technique
Ceramic	Moist Noticed	Rating and snap
Porcelain	Moist Noticed	Straight minimize
Pure Stone	Tile Cutter	Dry minimize

Grouting Gaps

To grout gaps between tiles, use a grout float to use the grout combination. Press the grout into the gaps and take away any extra. Enable the grout to set for the really helpful time earlier than cleansing the floor.

Discoloration and Staining

To forestall discoloration and marking, seal the tiles and grout after set up. Use a penetrating or topical sealer designed for the precise sort of tile or grout.

Mould and Mildew Progress

To forestall mildew and mildew progress, maintain the toilet well-ventilated. Use an exhaust fan or open a window throughout showers. Moreover, clear the tiles and grout repeatedly utilizing a gentle cleaner.

Cracked or Damaged Tiles

If a tile cracks or breaks, it may be changed. Rigorously take away the broken tile and change it with a brand new one. Grout the brand new tile and seal the world.

Free Grout

If grout turns into unfastened, it may be repaired by eradicating the previous grout and making use of new grout. Use a grout elimination software and observe the grout producer’s directions.

The right way to Beautify a Tub Encompass

The bathtub encompass is an often-overlooked space of the toilet, however it may be a terrific place so as to add some model and character. With somewhat creativity, you possibly can remodel your tub encompass right into a murals. Listed below are just a few concepts:

Use tile. Tile is a traditional selection for tub surrounds, and it is available in all kinds of colours, shapes, and sizes. You’ll be able to create a easy subway tile encompass, or you will get extra artistic with a mosaic tile design.

Paint it. If you happen to’re on a finances, portray your tub encompass is a good way to replace its look. You should use a strong coloration, or you will get artistic with a stencil or mural.

Add some molding. Molding can add a contact of class to your tub encompass. You should use it to create a body across the tub, or you need to use it to create a extra elaborate design.

Hold some art work. Paintings is a good way to personalize your tub encompass. You’ll be able to cling a print, a portray, or perhaps a {photograph}. Select one thing that you just love and that displays your model.

Individuals Additionally Ask

How do you adorn a small tub encompass?

If in case you have a small tub encompass, you need to use among the identical concepts as for a bigger encompass. Nonetheless, you could need to select smaller tiles or a extra compact design. You may also use mirrors to make the house look larger.

What’s one of the simplest ways to brighten a bathtub encompass with tile?

The easiest way to brighten a bathtub encompass with tile is to make use of a water-proof adhesive and grout. You also needs to seal the grout to forestall water injury.