How do I lay floor tile up against a plastic tub?

Question

I wish I would have thought of this before installing the tub so I could just lay the tile under the tub. But it's too late. So what do I do? How can I cover the seam between tub and tile so that water doesn't get to the subfloor? I would just use caulk as with an iron tub but this plastic tub gives with enough pressure and the caulk would just eventually crack. Any suggestions? I've never layed tile before so please speak in layman's terms. Thanks.

Answer 1

if you are using quarter inch grout joints then leave a quarter inch grout joint next to the tub, and when the grout is dry either 1 use a sanded caulk that matches your grout color(if you are usuing sanded grout, if not then use non sanded caulk). you should be able to get the color matched caulk from the same store you bought the grout. or 2 use clear silicone to caulk the grout joint to the tub. the grout will fill the joint next to the tub and it will look like it should be there instead of sticking out like a sore thumb, and the caulk seals the tub to the floor and hides the joint. be sure to seal the grout joints a couple coats so the grout doesnt absorb moisture. especially important near the tub. any questions email me

Answer 2

I am presuming that you are installing ceramic tile. Cut the tile to follow the curves of the tub as closely as possible leaving at least 1/8" to 1/4" away from the tub. You may have to get creative with the tile saw to accomplish this and it may help to make a template of the tub with poster board or other heavy paper. Once the tile is cut and set, grout it properly. Then apply a high quality sealer and let it set without traffic or getting wet for 24 hours. Test the grout seal by applying water to it and letting it sit there for 30 minutes or so. If, after wiping up the water, if the grout looks wet, dry it well and apply another coat of sealer and check again. When the grout sealer passes the wet test without water soaking into it you can apply a good 50 year caulk that contains silicon or use a 100% variety and seal the grout to the tub. You are right, the elasticity of the tub will eventually break the caulk seal. It will be necessary to check the caulk seal and replace it when it fails. It will also be necessary to check the grout seal to ensure its integrity is intact. If it appears wet, it will have to be recoated.

Answer 3

mnm81 has given you a good answer. I'll give you another bit of advice if you're really worried about this situation. First, don't worry because this is the normal installation method. Tile is not laid first. Follow mnm81's advice but you can also add an l-shaped piece of trim that adheres to the face of the tub and covers the gap between the tub and the tile. If your tub shifts any, you can get this item at a major hardware store. Adhere it to the tub and embed it in a bead of silicone sealer placed on the grout line running parallel with the tub. But I really don't think that you'll need to do this if you have a standard builder quality tub. I just built a new home and have this scenario in 2 locations with zero problems. Good luck.

Answer 4

Caulk is the way to go. You want to use a silicone caulk for wet areas - it'll be labeled for "kitchen and bath." These are not water cleanable so apply carefully and have a good rag on hand. If you tend to get mess with them you can use painters tape around the areas to protect. They will be flexible and keep much longer than water-based caulks. Good luck.

Answer 5

I nice, fat line of silicon calk should solve your problem.