How To Fit an Acrylic Bath Panel
How To Fit an Acrylic Bath Panel
Purchasing and installing a new bath can be a costly procedure, so taking a DIY approach to installing your own bath panel can be a simple and effective method to keep costs down by eliminating the need to hire a professional.
The number of bath panels needed is determined by the kind, size, and position of your bath, and you can complete the installation in only 30 minutes if you follow our step-by-step guide on how to fit a bath panel.
What exactly is an acrylic bath panel, and why should I install it myself?
A bath panel, which comes in a variety of sizes and finishes, is most commonly used with a straight bath to hide unsightly plumbing and equipment.
Bath panels are needed to give an appealing overall appearance for your bath, as well as splash resistance for beneath-the-bath flooring.
Install bath panels that match or complement the surrounding décor of the bathroom, for example, walnut bath panels to match a walnut vanity unit, or consider a victoria plum option for a bold look. Panels may be easily installed on the side and end of the bath.
The Size of Acrylic Bath Panels
The most popular sizes for front panels are 1500, 1600, 1700, and 1800 mm, while the most common sizes for end panels are 700, 750, and 800 mm, which can be used to fit a bath perfectly. However, different baths require different sizes of panels, so be sure to measure accurately to fit a panel on the back or side of the bath if that’s your choice. These diameters are suitable for the majority of installations, with 1700mm being the most prevalent in the United Kingdom.
Typically, baths can be lowered or raised using the included bath legs. However, if you are replacing a panel and the tiles and pipework prevent you from raising the bath, you will need to carefully measure the height of the bath panel because different manufacturers make them at slightly different heights.
Most panels are delivered as a single unit, which means they have a fixed height and cannot be adjusted, but you can use timber for each panel to create a custom fit. Two-piece bath panels consist of one fixed-height panel and a separate plinth that is put in front or behind the main panel to achieve the desired height; this option is also ideal for sloping floors.
What Materials Are Used to Make Bath Panels?
Bath panels come in two major materials: Acrylic and MDF.
MDF bath panels are strong and do not bend like acrylic panels when properly installed. When choosing an MDF bath panel, consider the board thickness (typically between 5mm and 18mm); the thicker the board, the less likely it is to bend. Vinyl wrapped bath panels are coated in plastic to ensure a consistent, water-resistant finish.
Acrylic bath panels, on the other hand, are easy to cut and are usually less expensive than MDF.
Do I Need To Make A Frame To Fit A Bath Panel Into?
To support and strengthen your bath panel, we recommend putting it to a frame built of 1.5-2″ batons.
How To Install an Acrylic Bath Panel?
The following are the tools needed for installing a bath panel:
- Screwdriver
- Electric drill
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Wood screws
- Wooden batten
The first part of our bath panel installation guide has instructions for just installing a front panel, so keep this in mind before moving on to Step 1, where you will learn how to fit an acrylic bath panel.
Step #1: Measure the bath panel
To get started, use your tape measure to confirm that the bath panel is the correct size for your individual model of bath.
Step #2: Attach the wooden batten
Securely attach your softwood or rebated timber batten (38 x 25mm for front panels) to the floor using a spirit level to ensure it is level. The batten should be the whole length of the bath, with a 19mm inset from the bath edge.
Step #3: Cut the bath panel to size
To eliminate any possible uneven flooring, cut your bath panel to the proper size if needed. The panel may also need to be adjusted so that it fits around skirting boards or pipes, ensuring a snug fit against the bottom lip of the panel.
Step #4: Install the bath panel
After you cut the panel to the proper size, insert the panel in place and adjust the location of the batten to ensure that the new panel sits correctly when it is securely attached beneath the rim of the bath.
Step #5: It’s Drilling time
Drill three regularly spaced holes 12mm apart from the plinth’s lower edge with your electric drill. Check that the holes are in line with the batten, marking where the panel will be secured for a precise fit.
Step #6: Secure the bath panel
Secure the bath panel to the batten with wood screws (25mm long for front panels) and seal the screws.
Conclusion – Fit an acrylic bath panel
In conclusion, installing an acrylic bath panel is an easy DIY project that can save you money by eliminating the need for expert assistance. You can complete the installation efficiently by following a step-by-step approach that includes measuring, cutting, and fastening the panel into place using an electric drill. This ensures a clean look that conceals pipes while protecting bathroom floors. Most bath panels can be placed in approximately 30 minutes with the proper tools and careful adjustments, making this a practical and cost-effective home renovation project.