A shower surround is the area above the tub line in a combination bath/shower, or the walls surrounding a walk-in shower. These come with multiple material options and can include seating options, but the one feature all shower surrounds have in common is that they’re waterproof.

DIY enthusiasts can install a shower surround themselves, using a shower kit purchased from Williams Kitchen & Bath. Here is a rough guide for how to do so.

1. Preparing the Shower Enclosure

Shut off the main water supply and remove all plumbing fixtures, including the shower head and shower valves. Take this opportunity to clean the shower alcove.

2. Installing the Panels

Dry-fit the corner panel of your shower surrounds before installing it, to ensure the fit is correct. Then, apply adhesive every 12 inches along the length and edges of the panels. Be sure to leave the panel that would cover your plumbing fixtures for last.

3. Installing Around the Pipe Outlets

Cut the shower surround panels based on where the faucet, shower head, and other fixtures are along the enclosure wall before adhering it.

4. Installing Your Fixtures

Put your fixtures into place and add silicone sealant all around the edges and underneath the fixtures.

You’ll need to allow the adhesive enough time to dry before use, so leave the shower alone for at least 24 hours before using it.

Acrylic and fiberglass shower walls do not work well with standard primer and paint. While they can be painted or repaved with waterproof epoxy paint after sanding, this can damage your shower. It will also show wear and tear quickly, especially with regular use. We recommend purchasing a new shower surround in the color of your choice rather than risking damage with a DIY paint job.

As one of the focal points of your bathroom, tub, tub-shower, and shower surrounds usually cost more to install or replace than bathroom vanities and other fixtures.

According to remodeling experts, the typical cost for installing new shower surrounds can range roughly between $3,700–11,000. 

However, the actual figure can vary depending on the amount of work you need to have done on your existing shower area, the type of material you want to install, the size of your existing shower, and where you’re located. A tub-shower combination will command a different price point than a walk-in shower within the same dimensions, especially if you want to add special features like a rainfall shower head or other plumbing fixtures.

Your shower surrounds should be able to provide waterproof protection, as well as make your whole bathroom a spa-like retreat away from the stress and daily grind of life. Here are some factors to help you choose the right shower surround for your home:

• Panel size: Most prefab shower surrounds come with four panels, while tub surrounds typically have either two or three, depending on the manufacturer.
• Material: Some people love the look of granite or cultured marble and have the means to seal it regularly, while others prefer economical acrylic and fiberglass surrounds.
• Shower surround kits: Shower surround kits fit into your current shower setup and are a great option for updating the bathroom. These generally come in four distinct varieties with varying numbers of pieces and amounts of labor involved: Tub-surround combo units, shower surround combo units, tub surround kits, and shower surround kits.

Prefabricated Shower Surrounds vs. Tile

Prefabricated shower surrounds are the types of acrylic and fiberglass shower walls that typically come in one or two pre-assembled pieces. While size and style options are more limited with prefabricated shower surrounds, these are quicker and easier to install than tile shower surrounds. Furthermore, since prefabricated shower surrounds don’t require new grout every 10 years like tile does, they require far less maintenance for the same amount of beauty.

How long your tub, tub-shower, or shower surround lasts will depend on the material used to make it. Here is the general life expectancy of some of the most common shower surround materials:

• Acrylic/fiberglass: These shower surrounds are more affordable than other options, but they also tend to be less durable, typically lasting roughly 10 years on average, or sometimes 15 with proper care and maintenance.
• Laminate: Commonly paired with plywood in shower kits, laminate shower surrounds are affordable. Similar to acrylic surrounds, they’re a bit less durable and last up to 10 years on average.
• Glass: Glass shower surround panels can last almost as long as your house can with proper maintenance. However, if treated roughly or left to develop mineral buildup, you may find yourself replacing your glass shower panels or doors within a matter of 20–30 years.
• Cultured marble: Cultured marble combines the beauty of natural stone with resins and pigments for strength. Most cultured marble shower and tub surrounds are designed to last 20 years.
• Solid surface: One of the most important benefits of solid surface materials is that they are a nonporous blend of resins, fillers, and pigments. This means that moisture won’t be able to penetrate the surface.