Installation Instructions for Swanstone Tub Walls

Unpack the kit and make sure that the panels are the correct size and in good condition. If the panels must be stored prior to installation, make sure that they are lying flat.

Prepare the site for panel installation. Turn off the water supply and make certain that all plumbing and electrical work in the wall is completed. These tub panes can be installed over a number of wall types, including sheet rock, wood, cementboard, plaster, cement or concrete, old tile and Masonite. Install wallboards if there is not an existing wall where the tub walls will go. Regardless of the wall material, the surface must be clean and smooth. All but tiled walls must also be treated with at least one coat of primer or sealer. Make sure that the mounting surface is free of residue like dirt or film.

Measure and cut the back panel to fit the back wall. Either take detailed measurements of the back wall or use a piece of cardboard for a template. A perfectly precise cut is not necessary, as the corner molding will be able to cover up to a half-inch gap in each corner. Place the back wall panel finished side up on a flat surface and trace the template or draw lines that reflect the measurements of the side wall. Place masking tape on the panel where the saw will cut and use a circular saw to cut the panel.

Fit the cut back panel to the wall and make any additional adjustment cuts as needed.

Cut the side panels to fit their respective walls, if needed. Either use a cardboard, transfer measurements or hold the panel to the wall and scribe where the panel must be cut to fit. Cut these panels in the same manner as the back panel by covering the cut line with masking tape and using a circular saw on a flat surface. Dry-fit the panels and make adjustments as needed.

Measure where the openings for the shower head and faucets are on the wall and transfer these measurements to the panel.

Cut holes for the shower head and faucets. Place masking tape on the finished side where the saw will contact the panel and use a saber saw, hole saw or router to cut the holes.

Clean the back of each panel using denatured alcohol or another cleaner that's not oil-based.

Apply silicone glue to the back of each panel. Place the silicone in 1 1/4-inch dots every 8 to 10 inches.

Install the panels, beginning with the back panel. Firmly press each of the panels against the wall and apply pressure to the entire panel surface to create a secure and even bond.

Install temporary bracing to hold the panels in place until the silicone sets. Align two or three two-by-fours vertically against each wall panel and wedge three two-by-fours horizontally between each vertical two-by-four and its partner on the opposite wall. Place small wooden blocks between the vertical rear panel braces and the horizontal wedges to hold the back panel in place.

Remove the braces after at least 24 hours.

Install corner moldings, if desired. Measure the corners and cut the corner moldings to this size. Dry-fit the moldings and make any necessary adjustment cuts. Clean the panels and moldings with a solvent that's not oil-based. Apply silicone adhesive in a zigzag pattern to the back of the molding and press it into place. Remove any excess silicone and use pieces of masking tape to hold the corner molding in place.

Apply silicone sealant to all joints and openings according to manufacturer instructions and let the silicone set for at least a day before using the shower.