How to glue a border to a bathtub: analysis of installation rules + installation instructions

There is always a characteristic gap along the interface between the side of the bathtub and the wall. Its size depends on the quality of installation of the container, the evenness of the walls, and the characteristics of the sanitary bowl. Regardless of whether this gap reaches a whole centimeter or is a tenth of a millimeter, it freely allows water to pass through.

Agree, it is not very pleasant to periodically or constantly conflict with neighbors from the apartment located below regarding constantly flooded ceilings. But to avoid negative situations, it is enough to close the gap with a flexible or rigid border. It will hermetically seal the joint and effectively design the perimeter of the bowl.

We will tell you in great detail how to glue a border to a bathtub. All options for sealing and decorating the gap between the bowl and the wall are collected and systematized for you. In addition to valuable recommendations, visual photo guides and video instructions are included.

Types of borders

Depending on the material and degree of reliability, cladding curbs can be divided into the following groups:

• Flexible self-adhesive tape is a plastic baseboard for a bathtub, usually sold in rolls of 3 m. A layer of sealant, an adhesive substance under the protective tape, is applied to the inside. There are corner and figured cladding. The figured tape has two longitudinal notches in the middle. The central part in this case does not contain an adhesive layer.

Advantages: ease of installation (no additional materials or special skills required), low cost, flexibility (can be used with unevenness up to 8 mm), fungicide content, which prevents the development of mold and fungal formations.

Disadvantages: short service life (no more than two years), suitable for temporary sealing, unpresentable appearance, may change color with prolonged exposure to tap water.

• Plastic corner. It has a more rigid texture and has silicone inserts at the edges, which provides better adhesion at the joints. Can be mounted under or on top of cladding.

Advantages: ease of installation, it is not necessary to have a perfectly flat surface (can be glued on uneven surfaces up to 4 mm), longer service life compared to self-adhesive tape (up to 6 years), there are corner parts.

Disadvantages: when exposed to tap water, plastic baseboards in the bathtub turn yellow over time, can crack under mechanical stress, and are not resistant to household chemicals.

• Ceramic borders, stone and porcelain stoneware borders are usually produced as finishing accessories for tiles; they can be purchased in a set of suitable texture and color.

Advantages: long service life, do not change color over time, optimally suited for finishing in combination with ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware, resistant to household chemicals and mechanical stress, the highest level of waterproofing, the bathtub looks more attractive.

Disadvantages: high cost, can only be attached to flat surfaces, cutting requires a special tool, installation requires skill.

How to calculate the required amount and what to cut with

Ceramic border has positive aspects in application:

• The composition does not contain toxic compounds; even at elevated temperatures and humidity, compounds hazardous to health are not released into the air.
• It is easy to clean using detergents without damaging the surface.
• Durable material, does not deform under load.
• There are no flammable compounds in the components, therefore, upon contact with open fire, it will not ignite.
• The surface is water-repellent as it is coated with enamel.
• With proper use, the service life reaches 15 years.

A border is a corner of different shapes, widths, colors, made of ceramic material. Installation of such a product requires care and nuances in handling such material. If used incorrectly, it will split before fastening begins.

Before purchasing a product, you need to calculate how much it will be needed. To determine, the length of the seam is measured (with a tape measure, centimeter), which is divided by the length of one strip of the product.

You should not take such material end-to-end, as damage to the element may occur during operation and it will take time to purchase a new one.

The process of cutting the required length or forming an angle occurs using a grinder or pliers. A diamond wheel is installed on the grinder. The grinder will allow you to make a smoother cut, which does not require special formation of evenness in the future. The place where the biting was done with pliers should be leveled. Such a tool requires skill in handling, since biting off a part can lead to damage to the original material.

Border adhesive

Unlike a self-adhesive border, when installing ceramic and plastic cladding, it is better to purchase an adhesive sealant. Conventional adhesive for installing plumbing elements contains silicone. It may darken over time due to the formation of microcracks in it. They appear when, during operation, a micro-displacement of the bathtub or shower bowl occurs.

As a result, the baseboard peels off at the fastening points. Every 4-5 years, it is recommended to remove the fittings between the bathtub and the wall to dry, disinfect and replace the adhesive component. To avoid this:

• Carry out installation with a special sealant for aquariums, which contains antiseptic additives and prevents the development of microorganisms.
• Use an adhesive composition from a well-known manufacturer. The name must say "sanitary".
• The cost of a good sealant based on MS polymers, for example, the Moment brand, starts from 350 rubles. for 280 ml. This glue does not lose its hydrophobic properties even after several years; the adhesive seam remains flexible, which prevents the formation of microcracks.

How to glue molding to a bathtub

Most often, craftsmen advise laying moldings using sealants with silicone. However, any sealant darkens from water and after a couple of years lags behind the wall. For these purposes, it is necessary to use sealants intended for aquariums. Thanks to special additives, they do not darken and are not susceptible to fungus and mold. Especially if the composition includes MS polymers (Moment, Crystal).

It is better to use white or transparent ones with high hydro-repellent properties.

The ceramic border can be glued using epoxy resin or a special moisture-resistant solution.

If there is no sealant, liquid nails or tile adhesive will do. The plinth can only be installed on a dry, clean and grease-free surface.

Surface preparation and preliminary work

To reliably install a bathtub curb, the surface must be very carefully prepared. The strength of the corner fastening directly depends on the quality of the preliminary work.

If the bathtub is new, just wipe its sides and adjacent part of the wall with a damp cloth to remove dust and minor dirt.

To prevent lint and other fabric particles from remaining under the baseboard, choose a lint-free material to clean the surface.

If the bathtub has been used and has remnants of the previous sealant:

• It should be removed with a spatula and these areas should be cleaned with an abrasive material.
• Thoroughly clean the surface from soap deposits and a possible layer of fungal deposits. To do this, use special detergents. You can use a mixture of citric acid and soda in a ratio of 1:2.
• Dry the entire cleaned perimeter with a hairdryer.
• Degrease with alcohol (the bath should be completely dry).

Where to buy a quality bath corner

Currently, the corner can be purchased at construction markets, in huge construction stores and, of course, in online stores.

In an online store there is no opportunity to take a good look at the product in order to determine the quality and make sure that the desired pattern or shade is correct. In construction markets, goods are often stored in incorrect conditions, which can subsequently affect the quality and service life. This is especially true for self-adhesive models, which must be stored in dry and warm rooms. It turns out that large hardware stores are most convenient in this regard. Here you can view the product, check the quality, consult with a specialist and purchase additional items if necessary. The storage conditions for the goods are decent and the goods can be changed if necessary. Most importantly, you don’t have to wait days and weeks for the goods to be delivered.

Polymer materials are used to produce self-adhesive curb tape.

DIY border installation technology

After completing the preliminary work, you can begin the main stage. Do not delay installing the corners after cleaning the perimeter. Dust and dirt may begin to accumulate on the surface.

Depending on the type of finishing elements selected, the following tools may be needed:

• Adhesive material and sealant.
• Border or self-adhesive tape.
• Level.
• Masking tape.
• Roulette.
• Abrasive material.
• Rubber spatula.
• Mounting blade.
• Bulgarian.
• Pliers.
• Hair dryer.

Original solution

If you want aesthetics, plastic corners for the bathroom for some reason do not suit you, pay attention to... borders for kitchen units. Essentially these are the same plastic corners, they can be smooth or convex, equipped with corner elements and plugs to aesthetically cover the cut ends.

Their distinctive feature is that they all come with an elastic band, which additionally protects against leaks.

It is mounted in the same way as regular plastic corners.

The only drawback of such designs is that they cannot be bought everywhere. In kitchen showrooms, corners are often sold only as a set with the kitchen. But sometimes they can still be ordered separately. As an independent product, they can be found in large construction hypermarkets.

Useful tips

• When purchasing ceramic skirting boards, check the batch series and production date. Since products from the same manufacturer may differ slightly in color.
• When installing a border on an acrylic bathtub, you need to fill it with water to half the volume so that the bowl drops down a little. Do not drain the water until the glue is completely dry.
• Defects and wall relief of more than 5 mm when installing a ceramic profile must be leveled using acrylic-based mounting mixtures.
• To prevent the curb on the bathtub from peeling off longer, install forced ventilation in the bathtub.
• To remove old seam sealant, use special solvents. In order not to damage the top layer of the acrylic bowl, you should treat a small, inconspicuous area of ​​enamel.
• The wall and sides can be treated with a special antiseptic impregnation to prevent fungal deposits.

What dimensions can a tiled molding for a bath have?

Modern ceramic modules can become a designer find in the overall style of the bathroom. They are distinguished by a wide choice of patterns, colors and decor. There are three main types:

• pencil - a thin strip designed for narrow and long crevices;
• corner - the most common type, designed for sealing medium-sized joints;
• frieze - a variant of a corner and tiles in the form of an influx.

The size of pencil borders is usually 15mm in width and 20cm in length. Dimensions of a standard tiled baguette: 5.5 cm - height and depth, length - 20 cm.

The baguette can come with a set of facing tiles.

Why is it difficult to join materials?

The tiles do not absorb moisture. The slippery glazed top layer prevents the raw material from absorbing not only water, but also fixing substances. It is very difficult to attach a foreign part to a wall or floor, so professionals prefer to screw the elements. The design with screws looks rough. If the operator moves inaccurately or lacks experience, the ceramic under the drill may burst.

Connection difficulties Source kvartal-club.com.ua

Popular manufacturers of anti-wicking skirting boards

Today, popular manufacturers of skirting boards include both foreign and domestic brands and companies.

Leroy Merlin

Leroy Merlin is a famous French hypermarket chain that sells building materials and goods for home and garden. There is a wide selection of finishing materials, including all kinds of baseboard options for the bathroom.

Favorable prices and the possibility of delivery make the purchase even more enjoyable and profitable.

BNV

In 2022, the BNV online store took a leading position in the bathroom border market. The quality of the product was appreciated by customers, and high sales growth rates indicate the popularity of the company. The production is equipped with modern equipment and creates universal acrylic borders for the bathroom. There are 16 models available in different sizes and designs. A convenient way to receive it in any corner of Russia.

Borders and moldings are made to order according to individual sizes.

Mac

Polskaya is a leading global brand in the production and sale of innovative plastic profiles. Products are supplied to the markets of Europe, Asia and the USA. Their products are quick to install, do not absorb moisture, and do not contain lead.

Among the manufactured products there are self-adhesive skirting boards and tapes.

Porcelanosa Group

Porcelanosa Grupo ranks third in the ranking of the best manufacturers of sanitary ware, cladding materials, accessories for spas and hydromassage, as well as furniture. The company employs the best designers who implement the latest technologies in the creation of environmentally friendly materials used for ceramics, plumbing, and furniture. They offer non-standard solutions for the construction of modern buildings.

Today, the concern unites several companies that are engaged in production with a wide range of products. The goods they produce are aimed at creating a comfortable life for people.

The use of modern technologies, concern for the environment and high quality have helped the concern become a leader in the global market.

Such a wide selection of solutions for bathroom design will help the owner of any bathroom to choose options that suit his situation, taste and financial capabilities.

Features of installing plastic elements

It is possible to glue a plastic border under the tile and onto the tile (or other surface). In the first case, this occurs during the process of finishing the walls; the edge of the border is installed under the facing tile.

The option is certainly a good one, as it allows you to get a pleasant appearance. But there is also a minus - it will not be possible to replace or move the bathtub without compromising the integrity of the finish. In the second case, you need to attach the border for the bath after finishing the room. The bowl is placed against the wall, the gap is closed with a corner.

Borders differ in the sizes of shelves and profiles. The sides of the products are always elastic, which allows them to fit tightly along the entire surface, avoiding unwanted gaps. Simple finishing plastic has a more rigid structure that does not allow it to be attached to relief tiles.

If there are patterns, it is recommended to use PVC skirting boards with rubber sides. In places where the relief is too large, a specialized glue or moisture-resistant sealant will help.

Features of adhesive mixtures and sealants

When installing curbs, silicone sealants are usually used. However, some problems may arise: the appearance of mold, darkening of the seam. You have to regularly dismantle the corner, disinfect it and install it back.

The time it takes for mold to form is always different - from a couple of months to a year. Often the reason lies in the fact that normal ventilation is not organized in the bathroom; simple ventilation is often not enough.

Fortunately, there is a way out. The most effective solutions to the problem:

1. Sealant made on the basis of MS polymers. It is hydrophobic and can resist moisture penetration for many years. Unlike acrylic sealants, which begin to leak after just 3-4 months. There are MS compositions that have an antibacterial effect and prevent the formation of fungal compounds. True, their cost is slightly higher. Such products are able to remain elastic for a long time, so small movements of the bathtub will not lead to disruption of the integrity of the seam.
2. Waterproof glue. Being reliable and relatively inexpensive, Moment Crystal copes well with the task. It maintains its integrity for a long time, preventing the formation of mold.
3. A final non-obvious option is to use a sealant designed for aquariums. There are white and transparent product options to choose from. The only negative is the high cost. It is wise to use it if you already have it. Buying purposefully is not profitable.

Quality comes first

From time to time, some people have to deal with the fact that a corner constantly falls off the wall. The reason is that when using the bathtub it can move. Of course, if the corner is rigidly attached to the movable bathtub, sooner or later it will no longer hold tightly.

Acrylic bathtubs and shower trays have the greatest range of motion. Steel and cast iron bowls are slightly less susceptible to shear. To eliminate the problem, experts recommend PVC borders, which are firmly attached only to the wall. Moisture-resistant glue will prevent water from getting between the wall and the top side; the bottom side, due to its tight fit to the bathtub, will also cope with its function.

Unpleasant smell from under the baseboard

A common problem that haunts people after installing a PVC border. Sealing cracks 100% is not an easy task. It is difficult to avoid microscopic cracks that allow water to pass through, which accumulates inside the baseboard over time. After a while, the water begins to rot, causing an unpleasant odor in the room.

The reason is the use of incorrect technology for sealing cracks. Before installing the corner, it is unevenly sealed with sealant. As a result, unwanted cavities are formed between it and the corner, accumulating water.

It is recommended to do otherwise - mount the border directly on the wall, without first applying sealant. Yes, a little water with this approach may leak out, but thanks to good ventilation it will evaporate and prevent the formation of mold and the accompanying unpleasant odor.

Technological stages of installation of such elements

How to properly glue a border in a bathroom? There is a certain sequence of actions leading to a positive result. You should proceed as follows:

1. Old elements of the protective structure are dismantled. Adhesive residues are carefully removed. A simple stationery (wallpaper) knife will do.
2. All mold pockets must also be eliminated. A rag soaked in any detergent will help. Afterwards, the surfaces must be treated with a special impregnation against bacteria. You will need to read the product instructions in order to comply with the number of layers applied and the exposure time set by the manufacturer. An important point is that the entire procedure should be carried out wearing protective gloves, this will avoid possible allergic reactions and burns.
3. Then you need to degrease the surface. For this purpose, take a rag moistened with alcohol/solvent. You need to wait until it dries; you don’t need to clean anything yourself with a cloth. Directed warm air will speed up the process (a hair dryer or a regular hair dryer will do).
4. The curb is tried on and cut according to certain dimensions. In the corners, either corner dies are used, or the plinth is cut at an angle of 45 degrees. Metal scissors or a hacksaw with fine teeth will work as a cutter. Of course, you won’t be able to achieve a smooth edge; you will need to additionally “go through” it with a file or sandpaper. Only when the docking result is satisfactory can we proceed to the next stage.
5. The steps will depend on what type of curb was purchased. If it is made on a self-adhesive basis, then you will need to get rid of the protective line, place the border in the space provided for it and press it well. If the baseboard is made of any other material, then you need to apply a special adhesive sealant to the wall and shelves (if any). Next, the steps are the same - the baseboard is pressed tightly. It is highly undesirable to tear it off to place it again.
6. Sometimes excess sealant may bleed through the edges. It's not scary, you just need to carefully remove them with a soft, damp towel. You should not hesitate, allowing it to harden. It will subsequently become extremely difficult to remove the dried mixture.

At this point the active actions are over. It remains to wait until the composition sets and hardens. The drying time varies, ranging from 5 hours to 2 days. It all depends on the composition used, temperature and humidity in the room.

Borders with adhesive tape and rubber edge

If desired, you can do without a hard plastic border in the bathroom, replacing it with plastic adhesive tape, which makes sense from an economic point of view. How to install a border in the form of adhesive tape, what are the difficulties?

The main difficulty is the inability to adjust the position of the tape for a long time. If you do not lay it down correctly right away, you will have to peel it off, and this is not the best idea - the remains of the adhesive mass will remain on the surface to be pasted. It is wise to practice first without removing the protective film.

The obvious disadvantage of this material is its large thickness, which sometimes makes a tight fit impossible. You should be prepared for leaks. You can eliminate this by placing the tape not on the existing adhesive side, but on the sealant. There is no need to smear it on the side that comes into contact with the bathtub.