Why Proper Installation of Bathroom Liners is Important
Remodeling a bath may look like a simple task, but there are a lot of lessons that can be learned by not understanding the importance of the job. Here are a few examples of why the proper installation of bathroom liners is so important.
Size and Proportion of Bath Tub
There does not seem to be a universal size and shape for bath tubs. This means that sizing a tub for a liner can be very difficult. Having a custom liner molded for your bath tub is almost as costly as having a new one installed. Also, only a bath tub that is supported by a wall is a good candidate for a liner. Free-standing tubs cannot be fitted with a bath tub liner.
Hardly Ever an Exact Fit
Although exact measurements are taken for a tub mold, there is always that chance that there will be a tiny amount of space between the original tub and the liner. This leads to a soft-pocket feeling from the trapped air between the 2 structures. Also, no matter how well a liner appears to be sealed, there is still a chance that water or moisture can creep between the tub and liner, resulting in a mold or mildew problem. If the water is significant, there can be a squishy feeling from the trapped water and a rank odor can develop.
The Best Lining Material
There are two different types of material used for bathroom liners. Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, a flexible plastic, similar to what your present tub may look like. However, this material has a higher susceptibility to cracking and damage. Some people believe that this material also looks inferior to other types of bath room liners.
Acrylic liners are longer lasting than PVC. The material is thicker, firmer, and more tolerant to heavy use. However, the price is significantly higher. All in all, if you are going to expect your tub liner to last for any amount of time, selecting the acrylic material is much more to your advantage.
If there is an accidental tear or cut in either one of these materials, there is no way to repair. Care must be taken in measuring, placing, and sealing a bath tub liner.
Lining the Walls
Lining bathroom walls is by far simpler than lining a tub. It is much easier to keep moisture out of the space between wall and lining due to simple gravity. However, without a sufficient amount of the right adhesive used in the right places, your lining can take on a bowed look.
Correct Sealing Directions
Once the lining has been properly placed around the walls of the tub and all of the bubbles have been removed, all open edges have to be sealed. It is obvious that the area along the tub is susceptible to moisture. Taping and sealing well is a priority. One area that is often neglected, however, is all of the small cracks around the faucets. Just because there is trim that fits over the opening, does not mean that water cannot leak behind the wall. Always make sure that all cracks are sufficiently sealed and dried before finishing up with hardware.
Always keep sharp tools away from your liners and measure 2 or 3 times before cutting. Also keep the bathroom well ventilated when using sealants and allow ample drying time before getting any of the surfaces wet.
