How Many Square Feet Is a Standard Tub Surround? (Find Out Now!)

Measuring for a new tub surround is easier than you think. First, place your tape at the top of the tub. Then find the width from one end to the other. Next, measure the distance from the top of the surround to the ceiling. Now you have the numbers for your calculation.

Finding the area of an object is simple. It doesn’t even take any special skill or tools. Here’s the formula to help you out:

Area = Length (L) x Width (W)

The area of your unit represents how big it is. So, don’t forget to compare that to the area of the space. Remember, some models are bigger or smaller than average. That means you should choose a few alternatives just in case things don’t measure up.

Also, keep in mind that you can pan the unit to the ceiling or cut it short. Most people leave a gap of about 70 inches. Whatever the case, be sure to measure twice, so you only have to buy once. And get help from a professional if you think you need it.

Installing your new tub surround isn’t as time-consuming or expensive as it used to be. Today, you can pop a new unit right on top of an old one. The solution is called a “bathtub liner,” and it even covers the walls. Plus, you don’t have to replace anything to get it in and it could be less expensive.

In fact, you only have to remove the knobs and fixtures to put a new tub surround over an existing unit. You can even keep the same plumbing if you want to. Meanwhile, installing a liner instead of taking out the old tub is a quick and cost-effective option. And in most cases, you can get the whole thing done in one day.

TIP: Hire a licensed plumber to help you move or repair pipes and fixtures because, in some states, it’s the law.

If you have to install drywall behind your new tub surround, it might affect the measurements. Luckily, you may not have to. It all depends on the type of unit you choose.

Acrylic and fiberglass models often come with flanged edges. Those edges attach right to wall studs. So, you end up putting in drywall to hide those enclosures. And that means you might have to rip out what’s already there first.

Unlike a tub liner, fiberglass and acrylic units sit on top of the bare studs. That means you’ll have exposed beams and electrical components if you don’t reinstall new drywall.

NOTE: Most drywall sheets measure about 1/2-inch thick. Try to accommodate for that when you’re finding the dimensions of your unit.

One-half of an inch probably won’t throw off your measurements too much. So, does this mean you can just slap some regular drywall behind the tub and call it quits? No. You have to use a special kind of cement board to keep moisture from seeping into your walls.

Don’t worry. The cement board isn’t any thicker than the regular stuff. But using it is especially important if your tub has tiles or caulked joints. Regardless, never use paper-faced drywall. That’s because the paper attracts moisture instead of repelling it.

Related Questions

How Much Does a Tub Overlay Cost?

Bathtub overlays can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500. Plus, you have to also pay for installation if you don’t do it yourself. Professional installation can add up to $3,000 to the total price. That means you’ll end up paying between $1,800 and $4,500 on average.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Tub Surround?

Each home renovation project is different. But most people can install the average tub surround in about 1 to 3 days. However, that timeline depends on several factors. For example, it may take half of a day just to remove the existing tub.