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Frequently Asked Tubliner Questions

 

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Acrylic tubliners, shower liners and wall systems over the last several years have quickly become the ideal option over typical bathroom remodeling. Though a more expensive option than refinishing, they typically have a longer life span. We usually recommend in addition to considering your budget, you also determine the length of time you will be in your residence. Contact your local Surface Specialists franchisee who can help you determine if refinishing or a tubliner system is the best option for your project. Acrylic Tubliner System
 
Refinishing Tubliner
 

What is a bathtub liner?

It is a new ¼ inch thick acrylic bathtub custom-molded to fit directly over your existing tub. Through pictures and measurements taken by our qualified technicians, your tub liner is made by thermo-forming the acrylic sheet directly over an existing mold of your bathtub model, ensuring a perfect fit to your tub.

How does it work?

The liner is cut to fit tight against your tile and all the way down to the floor by our trained installers. Adhesives bond the liner to the tub, and once it is set in place, a special 100% silicone sealant is used around the entire tub. Extra adhesives are also applied around the drain and overflow areas to ensure a water-tight seal.

What is included in the price?

A standard 4½, 5 or 5½ foot tub liner that is set into three walls, a new chrome drain plug and overflow cover, a molded slip-resistant bottom, the initial call and installation.

What about the walls?

We also offer a three piece wall system which is designed to go right over your existing tile. It extends from the floor to the ceiling in one piece. We remove and reinstall your existing plumbing fixtures and install a flush mounted soap dish made out of of the same material as the wall. Other color matched caddies and accessories are also available for an additional charge.

Why do you use a three piece wall system? I have heard of a one piece system which does not have any caulk. Wouldn't that be better?

No, a one piece system is not better. Not all existing tub walls are the same dimensions and they can vary quite a bit from builder to builder, house to house, bathroom to bathroom, etc. Therefore, the same one or two molds will not fit every tub surround in the country. Most likely a one piece system will either either have to be forced into place or lots of additional adhesives may have to be "built up" behind the system to fill in the gap between it and the wall. With our three piece system, each panel is measured and cut to fit exactly over your existing wall and ensures the best fit possible. Additionally, in terms of caulk, as long as you have a separate tub and wall system, you will always have at least one caulk line between the tub and the wall system. Therefore, even with the one-piece wall system you do not eliminate the caulk line.

Is it cheaper to replace my old tub?

You can purchase a new bathtub for anywhere from $100-$800 depending on the quality and style. The added expense is when you consider the removal and replacement of the old bathtub. In most cases, one or two rows of tile must be removed to get at the tub lip for removal. Should one tile crack or break and you cannot match the tile, you are looking at replacing the tile walls, too. Most importantly, you need to be able to get the old tub out of the bathroom and the new tub in. Our liner weighs approximately 40 pounds and can be carried in upright and set into place.

What colors are available?

Liners are available in White, Almond, Biscuit, Gray, Pearl and Pewter. Walls are available in White, Almond, Biscuit, Pearl, Pewter, Silver/White Marble, Almond/White Marble, Beige Granite, Gray Granite, and White Granite. Simulated Wall Tile is also available in all colors with 4x4 or 8x10 tiles. Though you may view sample colors on-line, the true effect and beauty of these samples is best seen in person during an in-house presentation.

What should I use to clean the tubliner and walls?

You should use Dawn dish soap, Spic & Span, Glass Plus, 409, Fantastik, Scrub Free, Vinegar and water, or a 10%Bleach/90% water mixture. 

What cleaners CANNOT be used on tubliners and walls?

Do NOT use anything that is not safe for Acrylic! Any product that is “left on” the acrylic: aerosol propellants (Dow Scrubbing Bubbles) Ammonia-D (some Windex products), acetone (nail polish remover), scouring pads, powder or crystal drain cleaners. These will VOID your warranty

How much time is involved?

A consultation will be scheduled within 7-10 days from your call to take pictures and measurements. Your custom-made tub and wall system will be installed 4-5 weeks later. 

What is the installation time?

It will take less than a day to install and you may use it once the silicone caulking sets, usually within three to five hours. 

How much does a tubliner and wall system cost?

Each of our franchisees sets their own pricing, so you will need to contact the franchise location in your area directly for an estimate. Though rough estimates can be provided over the phone, due to the customization of the tubliners an on-site visit prior to ordering will be necessary for color selection, accessory selection and for photos and measurements to be taken. 

Where can I find more information and see additional photos?

Visit the Acrylic Tubliner page on this website and/or call your local Surface Specialists Franchisee.

All franchise locations are Independently Owned and Operated. They may not offer all services shown.
For services available and estimates in your area contact your l
ocal franchise directly
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  For additional franchising information please contact amy@surfacespecialists.com
621-B Stallings Road • Matthews, NC 28105 • Phone: 866-239-8707 • Fax: 704-821-2097

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