As you step into your shower and see its dreary and aging walls, you may start to feel uneasy and uninspired. You know it’s time for a change. One of the most effective ways to upgrade your shower’s look is by installing new shower walls. Glue up shower walls not only look stylish, but they are also affordable and easy to install. But you may be wondering: where do I start? Fear not! In this handy guide, we will show you step-by-step how to install glue up shower walls like a pro. With a little effort, you can transform your shower into a luxurious oasis that you’ll never want to leave.
Before You Begin
Before beginning your project to install glue-up shower walls, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials to complete the job. Additionally, prepping your shower walls and measuring them accurately are crucial steps in ensuring a successful installation. If you’re unsure about any of the steps involved, it’s always a good idea to research and familiarize yourself with the process. Need some additional guidance on working with adhesive? Check out our article on what kind of glue to use on laminate cabinets.
Tools and Materials
To ensure a successful installation of glue up shower walls, you’ll need to have the right tools and materials on hand. Here is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
| Tools | Materials |
| – Measuring tape | – Shower wall panels |
| – Straight edge or level | – Adhesive (recommended: peel and stick adhesive) |
| – Circular saw or jigsaw | – Silicone caulk |
| – Notched trowel (to spread adhesive) | – Construction adhesive (if peel and stick adhesive is not used) |
| – Drill or hole saw (for cutting holes for fixtures) | – Gorilla tape or clamps (to hold panels in place while adhesive sets) |
| – Caulk gun | – Rubbing alcohol and rags (to clean walls before installation) |
Before you start the installation process, double-check that you have all of the necessary tools and materials. Missing even one item on this list can cause delays or errors in your installation. And remember, if you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a professional.
Prep Your Shower Walls
Properly prepping your shower walls is essential to the success of your glue up shower wall installation. To prep your walls, you will need the following tools and materials:
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Tape measure | Trisodium phosphate (TSP) |
| Pencil or marker | Scrub brush or sponge |
| Saber saw or circular saw | Plastic sheeting |
| Level | Caulk remover |
Before you begin prepping your shower walls, be sure to protect your work area by covering the shower floor with plastic sheeting.
Step 1: Remove any existing caulk or adhesive
Use a caulk remover to eliminate any old caulk or adhesive from your shower walls. Make sure the walls are completely clean and free of any residue.
Step 2: Clean your shower walls thoroughly
Using a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and warm water, scrub your shower walls with a scrub brush or sponge to remove any dirt or soap scum. Rinse walls thoroughly with water and allow them time to dry completely.
Step 3: Check your walls for level
Using a level, check your shower walls for any high or low spots. If you find any, use a saber saw or circular saw to cut away any high spots. If you have low spots, fill them in with a thinset mortar and allow it time to dry.
Step 4: Measure your shower walls again
Once your walls are clean and level, measure them again to ensure that you have accurate measurements for cutting your shower wall panels.
By following these steps to prep your shower walls, you will be setting yourself up for a successful glue up shower wall installation. For more information on glue and adhesive products, check out our helpful article on what glue to use on carpet.
Measure Your Shower Walls
Measuring your shower walls is a crucial step to ensure that you have the right amount of material to adequately cover your shower walls. Here’s how to measure your shower walls:
- Using a measuring tape, measure the height of your shower walls from the top of the base to the ceiling where the glue up shower walls will be installed. Record the measurement.
- Next, measure the width of each wall panel. Record the measurement.
- Once you have both measurements, multiply the height of the shower wall by the width of each panel to get the square footage for each panel.
- Then, add the square footage of all the panels together to determine the total square footage needed for the shower walls.
- It’s always a good idea to purchase extra material in case you need to make adjustments or replace any damaged panels.
Remember to take accurate measurements and double-check your calculations to avoid running out of material halfway through the installation process.
If you need guidance on gluing other materials, check out our instructions for how to glue tile to concrete, how to glue linoleum, how to glue vinyl baseboard, how to install tongue and groove flooring with glue, how to lay vinyl flooring without glue, how to glue carpet tiles, and how to install bamboo flooring with glue.
Installing Glue Up Shower Walls
Now comes the most important part of the process – installing the shower walls. This may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily. Following the steps outlined below, you can achieve a professional-looking installation that will last for years to come. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Cut Your Panels
To begin installing your glue up shower walls, you will first need to cut your panels to fit your shower walls. This process can be done easily with the right tools and techniques. Follow these steps to properly cut your panels:
- Measure Twice, Cut Once: Measure your shower walls twice to ensure accurate measurements. Use a tape measure to measure the height and width of each wall and record these measurements on a piece of paper. Make sure to account for any curves or angles in your shower walls. Double-check your measurements before cutting any panels.
- Use the Correct Tools: The right tools will make cutting your panels much easier. A circular saw equipped with a fine-toothed blade is the best option. A jigsaw can also be used for any curved cuts. Make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting the panels.
- Mark Your Panels: Using a pencil and a level, mark your panels with the measurements you recorded. Measure and mark the panels on the backside to prevent any unwanted marks on the finished side. Double-check your measurements before making any cuts.
- Cut Your Panels: Use a circular saw to make straight cuts and a jigsaw for curved cuts. Make sure to cut along the pencil marks precisely to ensure a tight fit. Cut each panel one at a time, making sure each piece fits tightly against the shower wall before moving on to the next panel.
- Smooth Your Panels: Use sandpaper to smooth the edges of your panels to prevent any protrusions or rough edges. Don’t forget to wear gloves when using sandpaper.
By properly cutting your panels, you’ll ensure a perfect fit on your shower walls. This will not only make your installation job easier, but it will also look more professional once complete. Take your time and follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Apply Adhesive to Your Walls
Before applying adhesive, make sure to clean your walls thoroughly and remove any debris or residue. This will ensure that the glue adheres properly and creates a strong bond.
To apply the adhesive, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Start by mixing your adhesive according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to mix it well, so that it is smooth and free of lumps.
- Step 2: Apply the adhesive to the first wall with a notched trowel. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and spread the adhesive evenly over the surface of the wall. Make sure to cover the entire area where the panel will be installed.
- Step 3: Repeat this process for each wall where you will be installing panels.
- Step 4: Once you have applied the adhesive, let it dry for a few minutes, until it becomes tacky to the touch. This will ensure that the panel adheres properly when you install it.
Keep in mind that different adhesives will have different drying times, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
When applying the adhesive, avoid applying too much, as this can cause it to squeeze out from between the panels and create a messy finish. At the same time, don’t apply too little, as this can result in a weak bond and cause the panel to fall off later on.
Pro Tip: If you’re applying adhesive to a large area, work in small sections to ensure that the glue doesn’t dry out before you’ve had a chance to install the panel. This will help to ensure a strong and even bond.
Install the First Panel
When it comes to installing the first panel of glue up shower walls, following the correct steps is crucial for a successful installation. Here is a step-by-step guide for installing the first panel:
Step 1: Apply Adhesive
Apply a generous amount of adhesive (recommended by the manufacturer) to the back of the panel with a notched trowel. Be sure to spread the adhesive evenly to avoid air bubbles.
Step 2: Place the Panel
Starting at the corner of the shower, gently place the panel onto the wall, making sure it lines up with the edge of the wall and any reference lines you made during the measuring process.
Step 3: Secure the Panel in Place
Using a laminate roller, firmly press the panel onto the wall starting from the center and working your way outwards. This will help remove any air pockets and ensure proper adhesion.
Step 4: Trim Any Excess
Using a straight edge and a razor knife, trim any excess material at the top and bottom of the panel.
Step 5: Check for Levelness
Use a level to ensure that the panel is both plumb (vertically level) and level (horizontally level).
Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Dry
Allow the adhesive to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before moving on to the next panel.
Remember, taking your time and following each step correctly is key to a successful installation. Once the first panel is securely in place, you can move on to installing the remaining panels.
Install the Remaining Panels
Now that your first panel is securely attached, it’s time to install the remaining panels.
Step 1: Place the next panel next to the first panel, leaving a small gap between them. This gap will be covered by a molding later on.
Step 2: Slide the tongue of the second panel into the groove of the first panel, making sure it’s level both horizontally and vertically. Use a level to make sure the panel is plumb and adjust it as necessary.
Step 3: Once the second panel is in place, secure it to the wall using the same method as before – starting at the top and working down, using a J-roller to ensure adhesion.
Step 4: Repeat this process for each remaining panel, making sure to leave a small gap between them for the molding.
Step 5: When you reach the final panel, you may need to trim it to fit. Measure and mark the panel to fit around any fixtures or corners, then use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut it to size.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for installing the remaining shower wall panels:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Place the next panel next to the first panel, leaving a small gap between them |
| Step 2 | Slide the tongue of the second panel into the groove of the first panel, making sure it’s level both horizontally and vertically |
| Step 3 | Secure the second panel to the wall using the same method as the first panel |
| Step 4 | Repeat the process for each remaining panel, leaving a small gap between them for the molding |
| Step 5 | Trim the final panel to fit, if necessary |
Pro tip: Before installing each panel, be sure to wipe down the adhesive on the edges of the prior panel to ensure a clean, flush fit.
Cut Holes for Fixtures
After installing all the glue-up shower wall panels, the next step is to cut holes for your fixtures. This step shouldn’t be taken lightly as mistakes could be costly, both in terms of damaging the wall panels and possibly even causing water damage if the holes are not cut correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide to cutting holes for fixtures in your glue-up shower walls:
- Gather your tools: You will need a power drill, hole saw, measuring tape, and marker.
- Determine the placement: Decide where you want your fixtures to be placed and mark their positions on the wall using the marker. Double-check the placement before continuing.
- Measure: Using the measuring tape, measure the exact diameter of the fixture you are installing; this will be the size of the hole you need to cut.
- Mark the hole: Using the marker, make a mark on the wall where you need to drill the hole for the fixture.
- Drill the hole: Attach the hole saw to the power drill and carefully drill the hole in the marked area. Be sure to keep the hole saw perpendicular to the wall and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the wall panels.
- Check the fit: Once you have drilled the hole, test the fit of your fixture. Make any necessary adjustments to the hole if the fixture does not fit properly.
- Repeat: Repeat this process for all fixtures you are installing.
Remember to take your time with this step to ensure that your fixtures are properly installed and the holes are done correctly without damaging the glue-up shower wall panels. Taking shortcuts or rushing through this step could lead to costly mistakes down the road.
Finishing Touches
With the glue up shower walls installed, you are almost there! However, the final details matter as much as the main installation process. That’s why you need to pay attention to the finishing touches. In the following steps, we will show you how to add a few simple but important final touches to make the shower walls look perfect. From applying caulk to cleaning up the workspace, these steps will help ensure that your newly installed shower walls are as functional as they are beautiful. So, let’s get started with the final steps!
Apply Caulk
After all the shower wall panels have been installed, it’s important to seal the gaps between the panels to prevent water from seeping through. To do this, you need to apply caulk.
Caulk is a waterproof sealant that is used to fill gaps and cracks. It is usually made of silicone or latex and provides excellent adhesion and flexibility. Applying caulk is a quick and easy task that can be done in a few simple steps.
- Choose the Right Caulk: The first step is to choose the right caulk for your shower walls. Look for a caulk that is labeled as “mildew-resistant” or “bathroom caulk.” These types of caulk are designed to resist mold and mildew growth in damp environments like the shower.
- Prepare the Caulk Gun: Next, prepare the caulk gun by cutting the tip of the tube at a 45-degree angle. The size of the hole you cut will depend on the size of the gap you need to fill. Cut the tip a little bigger than the gap to allow for room to spread the caulk.
- Apply the Caulk: Hold the caulk gun at a 45-degree angle and apply a steady and continuous bead of caulk along the gaps between the panels. Use a caulk smoothing tool or your finger to smooth the caulk and ensure that it fills the gaps completely.
- Clean Up: Once you have applied the caulk, use a damp rag to wipe away any excess caulk. Be sure to wipe away any smudges or fingerprints as well. Allow the caulk to dry completely before using the shower.
By applying caulk, you will ensure that your shower walls are completely sealed and protected from water damage. Remember to choose the right type of caulk, prepare the caulk gun, and apply the caulk evenly and smoothly. With these simple steps, you can have a beautiful and leak-free shower for years to come.
Clean Up
Once you have finished installing your glue up shower walls, it’s time to clean up the mess you have made throughout the process. The good news is that cleaning up is relatively straightforward, and it won’t take much time or effort.
One of the most critical steps in cleaning up is removing any excess adhesive from the walls and panels. You can use a scraper or putty knife to carefully remove any adhesive that has squeezed out from between the panels. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands while working with sharp tools.
Tip: It’s a good idea to have a solvent like mineral spirits or acetone on hand to help remove any stubborn adhesive residue.
Next, wipe down your shower walls with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies to ensure that your walls are free from any debris that could compromise the integrity of your installation.
Tip: Don’t forget to clean your tools, too! Use a damp cloth to wipe down any tools that came into contact with adhesive to prevent it from hardening and becoming difficult to remove.
Finally, dispose of any waste material appropriately. Place any leftover adhesive, cut-out panels, or scrap pieces in a trash bag or other appropriate receptacle. If you are using a solvent, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper disposal.
| Cleaning Materials | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Scraper or putty knife | Carefully remove excess adhesive from walls and panels. |
| Mineral spirits or acetone | Use to remove stubborn adhesive residue. |
| Damp cloth | Wipe down shower walls to remove dust and debris. |
| Trash bag or other receptacle | Dispose of leftover adhesive, cut-out panels, or scrap pieces. |
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your glue up shower wall installation is a success from start to finish. Not only will your new walls look great, but they’ll also be sturdy and long-lasting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, with the help of this step-by-step guide, installing glue up shower walls can be an easy and affordable way to transform the look of your bathroom. By following the tips and instructions provided, you can achieve a professional-looking finish in no time.
Remember to take the time to properly prep your walls and measure accurately before cutting your panels. Applying adhesive correctly and installing each panel carefully will ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.
When cutting holes for fixtures, take a cautious approach and double-check your measurements to avoid any mistakes or mishaps.
Finally, once the installation is completed, applying caulk and cleaning up the area will add the perfect finishing touches to your newly installed shower walls.
By conducting this DIY project with confidence and precision, you can save money and achieve a stunning new look for your bathroom. Don’t be afraid to take on this challenge and start your project today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can glue up shower walls be installed over existing tile?
Yes, you can install glue up shower walls over existing tile as long as the tile is in good condition and firmly attached to the wall.
What type of adhesive should I use for glue up shower walls?
You should use a waterproof adhesive that is specifically designed for use with shower walls. Two-part epoxy and urethane adhesives are good choices.
Can I install glue up shower walls myself?
Yes, with proper preparation, tools, and materials, you can install glue up shower walls yourself. However, if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, you should hire a professional to do the job.
How long does it take to install glue up shower walls?
Depending on the size of your shower and your level of experience, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to install glue up shower walls.
What should I do if my shower walls are not level?
You should level your shower walls before installing the glue up shower walls. You can do this by using a leveling compound or shimming the walls.
What tools do I need to install glue up shower walls?
You will need a saw, adhesive spreader, caulk gun, level, tape measure, utility knife, and silicone sealant.
How do I measure for glue up shower walls?
You should measure the width and height of your shower walls, as well as any areas where fixtures will be installed. Then, add a few inches to each measurement to allow for cutting and trimming.
Can I install glue up shower walls without help?
While it is possible to install glue up shower walls on your own, it is recommended to have someone help you, especially when handling larger panels. This will make the installation process smoother and safer.
What should I do if my glue up shower walls don’t fit exactly?
You can trim the panels to fit using a saw or utility knife. It is better to cut off too little than too much, as you can always trim more off if needed.
Can I paint my glue up shower walls?
No, you should not paint your glue up shower walls. This can cause the panels to discolor and peel over time. Instead, use a silicone sealant to finish the seams and edges of the panels.