How to Finish a Sterling Bathtub Surround

Installing a Sterling brand surround around a Sterling brand bathtub is relatively simple for the experienced do-it-yourselfer. Each surround style is slightly different, so always make sure the surround kit you purchase will fit your bathtub model. Specific instructions for each model come packaged inside the surround kit, but all require you to follow the same basic steps to finish the surround, so that it is sealed well and has a professional look.

Latex adhesive caulk
Silicone caulk
Dry, clean rag

Instructions

- 1
  Install the panels and plumbing cutouts as indicated on the Sterling instruction sheet included with your surround kit.
- 2
  Open a tube of latex adhesive caulk, and apply a 12- to 16-inch bead along the gaps and joints between the walls and perimeter of the surround.
- 3
  Push the caulk into the gaps and joints with your finger. If you find the latex caulk dries quickly, apply and push as you go, around the perimeter of the surround.
- 4
  Set the adhesive caulk aside.
- 5
  Apply a thin line of silicone caulk to the joints between the bathtub fixtures and the surround, as well as any vertical seams between the surround’s panels.
- 6
  Push the silicone caulk into the joints and seams using your finger.
- 7
  Wipe away any excess latex or silicone caulking from the surround or tile, using a dry, clean rag, and allow the caulks to dry overnight before using your bathtub.

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