Doubt the Grout

Ask yourself this, do you really have the time or the energy to add cleaning the grout around your tub or shower to your "To Do" list? There's enough things on that list that you have to do, but certainly don't want to. Is there a way around it, short of paying someone else to do it? The answer is yes and the solution is a bathtub surround.

A tub or shower panel is an easy maintenance replacement for ugly, old or cracked tiles. It provides a smooth, even surface without all of the nonsense that comes with grout, such as cracks that function as a ripe breeding ground for mildew. Grout is messy to apply and stains easily as it is a porous substance. Those pores in grout are hard to clean and bleach is harsh on your hands and the environment. Not to mention that even after you clean it, it's still a moist and warm environment. It's still a nursery for little spores.You'll be free of that with a tub surround. A bathtub surround will give your bathroom a fresh, modern appeal.

As mentioned before, the materials used to make these surrounds are non-porous, so that makes them easier to install. Also, the variety of materials available also ensures that you'll be able to find something that will not only fit your taste and style, but your budget as well.

There are a few drawbacks to tub surrounds. While it has a more contemporary visual appeal, with tiles if they crack, you can replace them. If the tub surround is damaged, the effort and cost of repair will depend on the damage and will be considerably more. While damage is a concern, tub surrounds are stoutly constructed and damage is unlikely. Also, when it's time to sell your home, some buyers will still prefer the vintage look of tile.

It's a great DIY project, with easy and simple instructions. Even someone new to DIY home renovation will be able to install it without damaging the underlying building materials of his or her home. Water damage can sometimes be an issue with tile installation, but as long as you follow the instructions, it's not likely with a tub surround. Initial tub surround installation is also much easier than tile.

The range of materials used to construct these tub surrounds can be anything from acrylic, synthetics or granite. The various values of these materials cause the price spectrum to vary widely from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. If you choose a model that is lower on the price spectrum, you'll find that the investment is comparable to what it would cost to install new tiling. The variety of materials offers so many choices as to budget, style, and taste, you're sure to find something that meets all of your needs.

Say good-bye to that stained, outdated grout and tile. It's hello to your new, low maintenance tub surround and hello to an empty slot on your "To Do" list.