Surround type

[larrybr45]

I am just not satisfied with the abs typical 1-5 piece surrounds I find for the 54" x 27" tubs for my manufactured home either online or at local mobile home parts store.

Is there a more durable alternative available at say Lowes, Menards etc. that would be used in this standard MH tub size somehow? Has anyone ever done this before?

thanks

[David Oxhandler]

The standard type tub surrounds work very well if they are installed correctly. While they appear to be somewhat flimsy prior to installation you need to understand that it is not a structural component but are there to act as a waterproof layer over the wall boards and flashing over the tub lip. Take a look at typical roof flashing... it is rather thin and serves strictly to deflect water from places you dont want it go.

I dont like sealing the tub surround, especially at the bottom. I like to leave it so that any water that gets behind the surround can escape out the bottom. Trapped water will cause mold. Paint the wall board with several coats of a high quality water resistant paint prior to installing the surround. Use a surround that is taller than the shower spout so it is difficult for much water to get behind the surround.

Your other alternative is to replace the entire tub with a one piece tub. This becomes a very expensive and complex project. If your going to do this spend the extra money and buy a fiberglass tub rather than ABS. In most one piece installation you need to be prepared to disassemble your entire bathroom, including removing the toilet and vanity and possibly opening up one of the walls in order to fit the one piece into its location.

Before you start any tub project read the entire online guide Replacing a Manufactured Home Bathtub by Mark Bower. It offers a step by step method for replacing your tub and surround complete with photos of the significant steps and great suggestions that will help prevent you from having to go back and do any part of this job twice.

SAMPLE FROM ARTICLE Along with the glue, you may also wish to install plastic rivets to help secure the tub surround to the wall. First picture shows what a plastic rivet looks like. Next predrill the hole. The hole does not need to be drilled into a stud. Then put a dab of caulk in the predrilled hole and insert the rivet all the way into the hole. Finally, tap the pin flush into the head of the rivet. That's it!

If your into handling you manufactured home repairs on your own consider Mark's Manual for Manufactured Home Repair & Upgrade   If you in a hurry to get started you can download the e-book version

You can now find all the parts you will need for this project including a selection of quality surrounds online