What is a Tub Surround?

If you’re researching quick and easy bathroom renovation ideas, the words "tub surround" might have popped up more than a few times. But what is a bathtub surround? And how can it help you transform your bathroom from outdated to fresh and inviting?

A bathtub surround is a structure that wraps around the walls surrounding your bathtub to create a smooth, water-resistant barrier that protects the walls from moisture and splashes, but also adds a modern touch. A new surround can completely transform your bathroom, making it look brighter and more polished. Plus, it helps keep the space cleaner and more resistant to water damage.

Read on to discover the answer to “what is a tub surround?” and how to choose the right one for your bathtub.

Understanding What a Tub Surround Is

A bathtub surround is both a decorative element and a practical barrier that lines the walls around your bathtub to create a clean, watertight seal.

Definition and Purpose

Tub surrounds are essentially fitted structures that wrap around the bathtub area, extending up the walls to guard against splashes, spills, and steam. They are typically made from materials like acrylic, fiberglass, or even tile and are designed to keep water off your walls and help prevent moisture damage and mold buildup.

Different Types of Tub Surrounds

Bathtub surrounds come in a variety of materials and designs to suit every style and budget. Prefabricated surrounds are often made of fiberglass or acrylic and are a quick and straightforward option, perfect for those who want to avoid lengthy installations.

Tile surrounds are a more customized option that can add a touch of luxury and offer endless options in terms of color and pattern. Solid surface surrounds, like cultured marble, have a sleek and modern appearance, while PVC panels are a budget-friendly choice that’s still very effective in protecting your walls.

Bathtub Surround Materials

Choosing the right material for your tub surround is key to balancing durability, aesthetics, and budget. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options, including their strengths and considerations.

Acrylic Tub Surrounds

One-piece acrylic tub surrounds are a popular choice for their combination of affordability, durability, and easy upkeep. The non-porous surface resists mildew and mold, making it a breeze to clean. Unlike some materials, acrylic won’t chip or crack easily, offering a long-lasting solution for busy bathrooms. And it’s lightweight, which means installation can often be quicker and minimizes the disruption to your daily routine.

But not all acrylic is created (or installed) equally. Bath Fitter offers a seamless one-piece acrylic solutions with custom-fit installations. Our surrounds are designed to fit perfectly over your existing tub, giving your space a brand-new look without the lengthy renovation process.

Tile Tub Surrounds

Tile surrounds are great if you’re looking for a customized look. With nearly endless options in colors, shapes, and patterns, tiles can transform your tub area into a true design statement.

However, the charm of tile comes with some heavy maintenance requirements. Unlike acrylic, tiles have grout lines that need regular cleaning and occasional re-sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Tile is also more likely to chip or crack following an impact. It’s also one of the more expensive options for a surround.

Fiberglass Tub Surrounds

Fiberglass tub surrounds are a great choice for those seeking a cost-effective and lightweight option. They’re typically available in prefabricated kits, making installation quick and straightforward. Fiberglass is resistant to moisture, and its lightweight nature means it’s easier to handle during the installation process.

The downside is that fiberglass is more prone to scratching and cracking than other materials like acrylic. While it’s an affordable option upfront, if not properly maintained, it may require repairs or replacement sooner.

Why Choose a Tub Surround?

Tub surrounds are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to refresh their bathrooms, not only because they blend practicality with style, but also because they provide a durable solution that protects your space for the long haul. Here’s why they’ve become such a popular option in bathroom renovations.

Protection Against Water Damage

One of the biggest advantages of a bathtub surround is its ability to protect your walls from water damage. By creating a barrier between your walls and the constant splashes from showers and baths, tub surrounds help prevent moisture from seeping into the structure of your bathroom. This minimizes the risk of mold and mildew growth, which can be costly and time-consuming to address.

Enhancing Bathroom Style

What’s better than adding a feature that can protect your bathroom in the long run? Adding one that looks great while doing it. With dozens of materials, colors, and finishes to choose from, surrounds create a clean, polished look that instantly modernizes the space. Whether you want a minimalistic aesthetic or a more custom, luxurious feel, a new surround can transform your bathtub area and make it the visual centerpiece of your bathroom.

Choosing the Right Bathroom Tub Surround

Selecting the perfect tub surround means finding a balance between style, function, and the unique needs of your space. Here’s how to pick the right one for your bathroom.

Assessing Your Space

Before deciding on a bathtub surround, take a close look at your bathroom’s layout and size. The dimensions of your space will play a big role in determining the type of surround that will work best. For smaller bathrooms, a simple, clean-lined acrylic or fiberglass surround can create an open feel without overwhelming the room. If you have more space to work with, a custom tile surround can bring in texture and personality to make the most of the larger area. 

Matching Surrounds with Bathroom Decor

A tub surround should complement the rest of your bathroom’s design and bring harmony to the space. So, consider your existing color scheme and the materials already present in your bathroom. If you have a space look with sleek lines, a smooth acrylic surround might be the perfect match. Think about the overall vibe you want to create—whether it’s calming and neutral or bold and dynamic—and choose a tub surround that enhances that vision.

Installation and Maintenance of Tub Surrounds

Getting a new tub surround can feel like a big decision, but the remodeling process doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you need to know about the installation process and keeping your bathtub surround looking great over time.

Easy Installation

One of the greatest things about installing a new bathtub surround is that it won’t disrupt your routine for days on end. With Bath Fitter, the process is designed to be as quick and efficient as possible. 

Our custom-fit acrylic surrounds are made to fit over your existing tub, eliminating the need for messy demolitions. This allows for a clean, quick installation, often completed in as little as one day. Our approach means less downtime and fewer headaches, so you can get back to enjoying your updated bathroom sooner.

Low Maintenance Benefits

Another perk is the low maintenance required. Acrylic surrounds are non-porous, which means they naturally resist mold, mildew, and stains—no need for heavy scrubbing or specialized cleaners. This makes them an ideal choice for busy families and retirees who want a bathroom that looks great without the extra upkeep. Simply wipe down the surface with a gentle cleaner, and it’ll stay looking as fresh as the day it was installed. 

Cost Considerations for Tub Surrounds

Investing in a tub surround is a great way to refresh your bathroom without a full remodel, but it’s important to understand what you’re paying for and how to budget for this upgrade. These are the key aspects that influence the cost of a new bathtub surround and how to make the most of your investment.

Factors Affecting Price

Several elements will impact the overall cost of a tub surround, starting with the material you choose. Prefabricated acrylic and fiberglass surrounds tend to be more budget-friendly, while custom tile or solid surface options can be on the higher end due to their bespoke nature.

The size of your bathtub also plays a role—larger tubs or custom-shaped spaces may require additional materials or special adjustments. Customization options, like adding built-in shelves or decorative trim, can also influence the final price.

Comparing Cost and Longevity

While upfront costs are important, it’s also worth considering the long-term savings that come with a high-quality tub surround. Durable materials, like acrylic, can save you money in the long run thanks to their longevity and minimal maintenance needs. Investing in a better-quality surround now means you’re less likely to face repairs or replacements down the road, keeping your bathroom looking great for years.

Make Your Bathroom Your Own With Bath Fitter

A tub surround is the perfect chance to refresh your bathroom’s look and feel with a solution that’s built to last. And with Bath Fitter, you get the best of both worlds: a custom-fit tub surround that’s designed to protect your space and a stylish feature that adds value to your home—all with a lifetime warranty that gives you the peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected for as long as you have it. 

Ready to start your bathroom transformation? Book A FREE CONSULTATION, and let’s bring your vision to life with a beautiful, low-maintenance tub surround that perfectly fits your needs.