aMASSeco Remodel for Ram.

Installing new bathtub and shower panels directly to wall studs is a project many homeowners who are experienced with home improvement tasks and tools can do themselves. Some panels come in the form of a single molded unit that fits in the bathtub or shower alcove. This type of unit is often used in new construction. The other type of wall panel, which is often used in bathroom remodels and renovations, consists of separate panels that connect together and attach to the wall to form a watertight seal. This project assumes your old bathtub surround or shower has been removed and you are renovating your tub or shower alcove with panels that connect together. These panels have flattened edges, called flanges, which can be nailed directly to the wall studs. As you work on your project, be sure to follow any manufacturer instructions that come with your wall panel kit.

	Before You Begin
	Accurate measuring is crucial for the success of your project. When measuring to cut valve and shower arm holes, measure from the back wall forward and the shower base upward. To ensure strong adhesion and prevent trapped moisture, make sure the surface of the studs you are covering is dry and free of debris. Use the cardboard box your shower panels came in to protect your floor during installation. You may also use it in Step Four to create a template for cutting the holes for the panel that covers the shower valves.

Add to Your Projects

Tools:

• Tape measure

• Keyhole saw

• Pry bar

• Hammer

• Screwdriver

• Hole saw

• Drill

• 3/16" bit

Materials:

• Shower wall set

• Caulk gun

• Galvanized roof nails

• Drywall screws

• Construction adhesive

• 100% silicone caulk

• Joint compound

Follow These Steps

Steps 1 - 9 of 9

• 1

Step One

Mark Flange Heights on Back Wall

1.	Place the back panel flat against the back wall and rest the panel on the bathtub or shower base.
2.	Mark the height of the top of the flange on the wall on both sides of the panel and draw a horizontal line across the wall at this height. Remove the screw holding the faucet handle in place.

Step Two

Mark Flange Heights and Edges on Side Walls

1.	Carefully rest a side panel on the bathtub or shower base and position it where it will interlock with the back panel.
2.	Draw a horizontal line on the wall along the top flange and vertically along the outside edge of the vertical flange.

Step Three

Remove Drywall or Tile

1.	Use a keyhole saw to cut along the horizontal and vertical lines drawn on the back and side walls, being careful to avoid cutting the studs.
2.	Use a pry bar to remove the wall covering.
3.	Remove any nails or screws from the exposed wall studs.

Step Four

Measure for Plumbing Holes

1.	Measure the location of the plumbing valves and shower arm.
2.	Transfer the measurements to the side panel that will cover the plumbing wall.
3.	Verify placement for the holes by placing the panel against the plumbing wall.

Step Five

Cut Plumbing Holes

1.	Use a proper size hole saw to cut holes for the plumbing. Be sure to make the holes smaller than the decorative trim that will cover them.
2.	Confirm the holes are accurate by placing the side panel against the plumbing wall.

Step Six

Apply Construction Adhesive to Studs

1.	Place the back panel on the bathtub or shower base.
2.	Mark the top of the panels on each stud.
3.	Remove the panel and apply a bead of construction adhesive safe for use with plastic and foamboard down each stud that comes in contact with the back panel.
4.	Lay a bead of caulk along the tub ledge.
5.	Reposition the back panel and press it firmly against the studs.

Step Seven

Pre-drill Holes

1.	Pre-drill 3/16" holes in the center of the flange at the top of the panel centered on each stud.
2.	Hammer 3/4" galvanized roofing nails through holes into the studs, being careful not crack the panel.

Step Eight

Interlock and Install Side Panels

1.	Attach the side panels to the back panel per the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a bead of silicone sealant when the panels interlock when attaching them together.
2.	Repeat the installation instructions in Steps Six and Seven to attach the side panels to the wall studs. If the panel’s outside vertical flange doesn’t fall over a wall stud, install blocking and nail the panel to the blocking.
3.	Attach the bottom of each panel to the bathtub or shower base per the manufacturer’s instructions.
4.	Install greenboard over the flanges with drywall screws. Because this piece of greenboard is very narrow, pre-drill 3/16” pilot holes in the greenboard, flange and wall before inserting any screws. Take care not to crack or damage the flange by overtightening.

Step Nine

Finishing Touches

1.	Apply any trim and silicone sealant at the connecting joints and around the edges of the installation, as needed.
2.	Use joint compound to cover any screws or nails in the wall and to cover any seams between the drywall and greenboard.
3.	Reinstall the plumbing fixtures and shower arm.