What is a Tub Surround: How to Choose a Tub Surround For Your Bathroom

After purchasing a new bathtub or even sprucing up an existing bath space, you may find that your bathtub doesn’t quite match the aesthetics of your bathroom. Moreover, there seems to be a great deal of space between your walls and the bathtub itself. Well, fear not, as bathtub surrounds are designed to fix that very problem-creating an area that supports your bathtub, protecting your bath space from water overflow and water damages while creating a more complete look and feel.

• What is a tub surround?
• What are tub surrounds made of?
• How many square feet is a standard tub surround?
• Installation – new vs existing
• Using a pre-brought kit vs hiring a professional
• How much does it cost to replace a tub surround?

What is a Tub surround?

A bathtub surround describes the area around your bathtub-specifically the tiles or walls that encompass or surround the exterior of your bathtub. The surround is important for not only aesthetic purposes-it also functions as a buffer for any excess water from continual shower or bath use and for structural integrity between the walls and your tub. In simpler terms, think of it as a vertical bathtub for your walls, as it is non-porous and will not trap water inside. If your surround is made up of simple drywall, please consider swapping it out for a new surround that is non-porous so that you do not have to deal with the possibility of structural damage down the road.

What are Tub Surrounds Made of?

Similar to bathtub materials, surrounds are constructed from non-porous materials so that water may not carry a potential danger of creating structural damage. Common surround materials include acrylic, cultured marble, composite stone, fiberglass, and solid surface. The important factors to note when choosing the correct material for you is the price range, the flexibility of the material, and sturdiness.

Lifespan-10 years

Common Bathtub Surround Options

When planning your bathroom upgrade, choosing the right bathtub surround is just as important as selecting the tub itself. The material you choose affects not only the look of your bathroom but also its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall cost. In 2025, homeowners can choose from a wide range of surround materials—each offering its own balance of beauty, function, and price. Below are the most popular options and what you should know about each.

Fiberglass Surrounds

Fiberglass remains one of the most affordable and practical bathtub surround options for homeowners seeking a simple, budget-friendly solution. These surrounds are made from lightweight molded plastic reinforced with glass fibers, which makes them easy to install and ideal for DIY projects. Fiberglass surrounds resist mildew and are easy to clean with regular bathroom cleaners, requiring very little upkeep over time. However, their lower price does come with tradeoffs—fiberglass can scratch, fade, or dull after years of use, and it lacks the visual polish of more premium materials. Despite these limitations, fiberglass is a reliable choice for guest bathrooms, rental properties, or anyone who wants a quick and inexpensive refresh.

Acrylic Surrounds

Acrylic surrounds have become one of the most popular modern choices for homeowners who want durability and a sleek, polished appearance. Made from heat-formed acrylic sheets bonded to a reinforced backing, these surrounds offer a glossy, long-lasting finish that resists yellowing and cracking. Acrylic is more resilient than fiberglass, making it better suited for high-traffic bathrooms and everyday family use. It also retains heat well, which adds comfort during baths. While slightly more expensive, acrylic surrounds strike an ideal balance between cost, aesthetics, and longevity. The only real drawback is that installation can be a bit more precise, as improper handling may lead to cracking or uneven seams. For most households, though, acrylic remains the sweet spot between affordability and modern style.

Solid Surface Surrounds

Solid surface surrounds—made from engineered materials like cultured marble or composite stone—bring a sense of sophistication to any bathroom. These surrounds are molded into large panels, creating a seamless appearance that eliminates the grout lines found in tiled walls. The non-porous surface resists stains, mold, and moisture, making maintenance effortless. Because they can be refinished if scratched, solid surface surrounds often last for decades. The main consideration is cost: these materials are heavier and typically require professional installation, which increases labor expenses. Still, many homeowners view the investment as worthwhile for the clean, high-end aesthetic and long-term durability they provide. Solid surface surrounds are especially popular in upscale remodels and master bathrooms where a spa-like look is desired.

Tile Surrounds

Tile surrounds are the go-to choice for those who want to fully customize their bathroom design. Whether you prefer classic white subway tile or intricate mosaics, tile allows for endless creative possibilities. Ceramic and porcelain are the most common materials, offering excellent water resistance and timeless appeal. With proper sealing and maintenance, a tiled surround can last for decades and significantly increase your home’s resale value. The tradeoff is that tile installation is labor-intensive and requires precise waterproofing. Grout lines must be cleaned and resealed periodically to prevent mold growth. While tile surrounds typically cost more in both materials and labor, they offer unmatched visual flexibility and remain one of the most luxurious and design-forward choices available in 2025.

Stone Surrounds

For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury and durability, natural or engineered stone surrounds—such as marble, granite, or quartz—deliver unmatched elegance. Stone instantly elevates a bathroom, turning a simple bathtub area into a high-end focal point. It’s extremely durable, heat-resistant, and long-lasting when properly sealed. The natural veining and texture give every installation a one-of-a-kind appearance. However, this beauty comes at a premium: stone is heavy, expensive, and requires expert installation to ensure proper support and waterproofing. Occasional sealing is also necessary to prevent staining and preserve its finish. Despite the higher upfront investment, stone surrounds are an excellent choice for homeowners designing a luxury or spa-inspired bathroom that prioritizes timeless design and enduring performance.

Bathtub Surround Options Comparison 

Material	Cost Range (Installed)	Durability	Maintenance Level	Aesthetic Appeal	Ideal For
Fiberglass	$900–$1,500	Fair	Low	Basic	Budget or rental bathrooms
Acrylic	$1,200–$2,500	Good	Low	Modern	Family bathrooms
Solid Surface	$2,000–$3,500	Excellent	Low	High-End	Upscale remodels
Tile	$2,500–$5,000+	Excellent	Medium	Customizable	Primary bathrooms
Stone	$4,000–$8,000+	Exceptional	Low–Medium	Luxury	Designer or spa-style baths

What Is the Best Sealant for Your Tub Surround?

When sealing your bathtub or shower area, it’s crucial to choose a material that can stand up to moisture and temperature changes. Although caulk and sealant are often mentioned interchangeably, they each have unique properties that make them suitable for different parts of your bathroom.

Caulk is typically latex- or acrylic-based, while sealant usually refers to silicone-based compounds. Both prevent leaks and mold growth, but their flexibility, durability, and ease of use vary greatly.

Caulk vs. Sealant: Comparison Table

To help you decide between latex caulk and silicone sealant, here’s a quick comparison of how they perform in key areas such as flexibility, durability, and water resistance.

Feature	Caulk (Latex/Acrylic)	Sealant (Silicone-Based)
Primary Use	Walls, trim, and minor gaps	Bathrooms, tubs, sinks, and wet areas
Water Resistance	Moderate	Excellent
Flexibility	Low – may crack with movement	High – maintains elasticity
Durability	3–5 years	10–20 years
Paintable	Yes	No
Application Difficulty	Easy	Moderate to hard
Cleanup	Water	Solvent (like mineral spirits)
Odor Level	Low	Strong during curing
Best For	Dry or semi-moist areas	High-moisture, humid environments
Cost	Lower	Higher

Pros and Cons of Caulk (Latex/Acrylic)

Latex or acrylic caulk is a popular choice for homeowners because it’s easy to work with and ideal for aesthetic finishing. However, it’s not as durable or water-resistant as silicone, making it best suited for low-moisture areas.

Pros:

• Easy to apply and clean up: Can be applied smoothly and cleaned with water before drying.
  
• Paintable: Ideal for color matching walls, trims, or surrounds.
  
• Low odor: Emits minimal fumes, making it safer for indoor use.
  
• Adheres well to porous surfaces: Works well on drywall, wood, and tile grout lines.
  
• More affordable: Generally less expensive than silicone sealant.
  

Cons:

• Less flexible: Can crack or shrink over time as the surface expands or contracts.
  
• Limited water resistance: Not ideal for areas with constant exposure to moisture.
  
• Shorter lifespan: Typically needs reapplication every few years.
  
• Can mold or mildew faster: Especially in damp environments if not properly maintained.
  
• Not ideal for high temperatures: May degrade near heat sources like steam vents.
  

Pros and Cons of Sealant (Silicone-Based)

Silicone sealant is the go-to choice for high-moisture environments like bathrooms and kitchens. It provides a watertight, flexible bond that lasts for years, even under constant humidity and temperature changes.

Pros:

• Superior water resistance: Excellent choice for bathrooms, showers, and around tubs.
  
• Highly flexible: Expands and contracts without cracking, even with temperature or humidity changes.
  
• Long-lasting: Can maintain adhesion for up to 10–20 years with proper care.
  
• Mold and mildew resistant: Most formulas include antimicrobial properties.
  
• Ideal for non-porous surfaces: Bonds well with glass, ceramic, and metal.
  

Cons:

• Cannot be painted over: Once cured, paint won’t adhere properly.
  
• Difficult to apply cleanly: Requires steady application and often professional tools for smooth results.
  
• Strong odor during application: Needs proper ventilation until it cures.
  
• Harder to remove or replace: Once cured, removal can damage surfaces.
  

More expensive: Costs more than acrylic caulk upfront.

How many square feet is a standard tub surround?

Your average bath surround will measure in around 1,920 square feet. This number will generally differ depending on the size of your bathtub and the space you have available in your bathroom. Typical pre-constructed surrounds have a length of 60 inches, a height of 32 inches and a width of 32 inches-this generally can fit a small to moderate sized bathtub. This extends to higher or larger sizes which come in with a length of 60 inches, a height of 72 inches and a width of 60 inches. These numbers are for pre-constructed surrounds, but for the purposes of tiling, you need to measure the width and height of your three surrounding walls to determine how much tile is appropriate or needed for your surround. As there is no uniform size for your bathroom space, it is important to measure out how much tile is necessary keeping in mind that there will be a certain amount of ‘waste’ as tile doesn’t always fit in perfectly.

Typical Pre-Fabricated Surround Sizes

Pre-fabricated surrounds are designed to fit standard tubs and come in fixed panel sizes. Common dimensions include:

Surround Type	Length (inches)	Height (inches)	Depth/Width (inches)	Approx. Coverage (sq ft)	Fits Tub Size
Small (3-piece surround)	60	32	30	~40–45 sq ft	60″ x 30″ standard tub
Standard (full-height surround)	60	60	32	~65–70 sq ft	60″ x 32″ tub
Tall (shower-tub combo surround)	60	72	32	~80–90 sq ft	60″ x 32″ tub
Large/Luxury surround	60	72	36–60	~90–110 sq ft	Deep or oversized tubs
Custom tile surround (to ceiling)	60–72	84–96	32–48	~100–130 sq ft	Freestanding or oversized alcove tubs

Measuring for a Custom or Tiled Surround

If you’re installing a tiled surround, you’ll need to measure the height and width of each of the three surrounding walls individually:

1. Measure the back wall (width × height).
   
2. Measure both side walls (depth × height) and multiply by two.
   
3. Add all three areas together to get your total square footage.
   

For example, if your surround is 60″ long by 32″ deep and tiled up to 60″ high:

• Back wall: 5 ft × 5 ft = 25 sq ft
  
• Two side walls: 2.7 ft × 5 ft × 2 = 27 sq ft
  
• Total = ~52 sq ft of tile needed, plus 10–15% extra for waste and cutting.
  

Quick Tip: Always Add for Waste

When purchasing tile or wall panels, plan for about 10–15% extra material to accommodate for cuts, pattern alignment, or damaged pieces. It’s better to have a few extra tiles on hand than to run short during installation.

Tub surround costs

As discussed above, this price will differ largely depending on whether you are DIY or hiring a professional to replace your bathtub and surround. 

Price Range of Tub Surrounds (2025 Update)

As of 2025, the cost of a tub surround typically ranges from $350 to $1,800, depending on the material, size, and whether it’s a pre-fabricated or custom installation. Prefabricated acrylic surrounds remain the most affordable option, while premium solid-surface or tile surrounds are at the higher end of the price range.

If you’re replacing both the bathtub and the surround, expect an additional $500 to $2,500+ for the tub itself, depending on the material (fiberglass, acrylic, or stone resin) and design (standard vs. deep soaking). Professional installation adds $800 to $2,000 in labor, bringing the total for a full replacement project to anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000+.

Despite the initial expense, a well-installed surround can significantly extend the life of your bathtub, protect your walls from moisture damage, and enhance your bathroom’s visual appeal. Investing in durable materials upfront also helps minimize maintenance and long-term repair costs.

Average 2025 Tub Surround Cost Breakdown

Type of Surround	Material	DIY Cost Range	Installed Cost Range	Notes
Basic Prefabricated Surround	Acrylic or Fiberglass	$350–$700	$800–$1,500	Lightweight, easy to install, limited design variety
Mid-Range Surround	Composite or Cultured Marble	$700–$1,200	$1,200–$2,000	More durable, available in multiple finishes
High-End Custom Surround	Tile, Stone Resin, or Solid Surface	$1,200–$1,800+	$2,000–$3,500+	Premium appearance, customizable design
Full Bathtub + Surround Replacement	Varies by material	$1,200–$2,500+	$2,500–$5,000+	Includes new tub, wall surround, and professional labor

Is DIY Worth It?

For handy homeowners, installing a prefabricated surround can be a manageable weekend project, saving hundreds in labor costs. However, custom tile or stone installations require advanced skills, waterproofing knowledge, and precise measurements—making professional installation worth the investment to avoid leaks or uneven surfaces.

Whether your goal is aesthetic improvement or long-term durability, choosing the right surround material ensures your bathtub remains both functional and beautiful for years to come.

Installation Costs (2025 Update)

In 2025, the cost to professionally install a tub surround typically ranges from $900 to $6,000, depending on the material, size, and complexity of the installation. More intricate designs—such as custom tile or stone surrounds—can reach $8,000–$10,000+ when factoring in premium materials, plumbing adjustments, and waterproofing labor.

When hiring a contractor, it’s important to compare multiple quotes, as rates can vary based on your region and the installer’s experience. Labor costs alone generally account for 40–60% of the total price, so finding a reputable professional who offers both quality and value is key.

Average 2025 Tub Surround Installation Costs

Surround Type	Material	Average Installed Cost	Notes
Fiberglass Surround	Fiberglass or composite	$900 – $1,500	Most affordable option; lightweight and easy to install
Acrylic Surround	Acrylic panels	$1,200 – $2,500	More durable and glossy than fiberglass; resists cracking
Solid Surface Surround	Cultured marble or composite stone	$2,000 – $3,500	Offers a seamless, high-end look; moderate maintenance
Tile Surround	Ceramic or porcelain tile	$2,500 – $5,000+	Customizable design; requires precise installation and sealing
Stone Surround	Natural or engineered stone	$4,000 – $8,000+	Luxurious aesthetic; heavy material and high labor cost
Full Bathroom Remodel (Tub + Surround)	Varies	$5,000 – $10,000+	Includes new plumbing, waterproofing, and fixture upgrades

If you’re installing a new bathtub and surround together, consider choosing a matching system or manufacturer—this can help reduce fitting issues and labor time. For homeowners on a budget, prefabricated surrounds remain the most cost-effective solution, while custom tile or stone provides a long-term aesthetic upgrade that adds property value.

Installation – new vs existing tub

If you have chosen to DIY your surround install, you will first need these tools:

• Drill
• Hole Saw
• Nails and screws
• Measuring Level
• Marker
• Tape Measure
• Caulk and Caulk gun
• Tub or shower surround kit.
• Trowel

Steps to installing a tub surround

Most shower and tub surround kits afford you two different options for securing the panels-nails or glue. For installation purposes, the methods are very similar, only differing on how you wish to secure the panels themselves.

1. Remove any obstructions and prep your drywall

To allow the panels to bond properly, you need to make sure that the wall is clean to prevent any obstructions from mixing with the glue.

2. Dry fit your shower or tub enclosure

Before installing, lay your panels against your shower and make sure they fit before applying any caulk or screws.

3. Install the side panels

To create a more solid base, you want to install the side panels first by lining them up with your tub. Apply caulk on the panel in a zigzag pattern, then apply a bead on the wall, spreading it evenly with a trowel. Press firmly, releasing only after a good 1-2 minutes then applying a line of adhesive at the base before the bathtub.

4. Install the back panel

As the above step, lay a bead of caulk, making sure that the caulk stays within the panel boundaries before pressing firmly, releasing only after a minute then applying adhesive at the base.

5. Repeat process with the corner panels

Install the remaining panels in the same way, then allow adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours.

Using pre-bought kits vs. hiring professional

The immediate difference between using a kit and a hired professional is the price difference. Shower kits will run anywhere between $300-1000 depending on the material used. A professional starts between $700-1000 depending on negotiated rates, not including the cost of materials. However, you do retain the benefits of their experience and knowledge especially if you have no experience installing a tub kit surround by yourself. They also can help with any size issues or material difficulties that may occur such as something not fitting properly or if you want custom work done to the surround that you are unsure of how to approach. Many factory surrounds are typically bare, so additional shelves may be desired inside of the shower or tub walls which the professional can assist with.

Frequently asked questions

What comes in a pre-bought kit?

Pre-bought kits come with panels of your desired material that need to be glued or fastened against your drywall.

Can you put a tub surround on any tub?

Before buying a surround kit, make sure you check whether it is designed for a specific tub or base or you will be able to use it on any tub type. Checking it first will not only save you money but time as well. 

Can a tub surround go over existing tile? 

It is not a common thing that a tub surround goes over existing tile, but it’s possible. To be able to do, your old tile area needs to be smaller than the kit you’ve bought and the surrounding wall needs to be to the level of your tiles.