As a conscientious tile installer, do you take the time to protect bathroom fixtures before you start your installation?

Why Bother Protecting the Tub and Other Fixtures?

Realize that as a tile installation professional, you want to anticipate as much as possible before you begin your project, including protecting bathroom fixtures.

That holds true even if you are on a tight schedule, or you're called to get on the job quickly and complete the work in a short period of time. You must take precautions to protect the surroundings. 

Why? Because when the project involves installing tile in a bathroom, whether it is new construction or a remodeling project, it may be the responsibility of the conscientious tile professional to protect the fixtures, especially the bath tub.

Fortunately, since you have ready access to a smartphone device with camera, you can do so efficiently.

So, what's involved in protecting bathtubs? Two critical steps:

Step 1: Inspect Closely

The first step in this process is to closely inspect the tub for manufacturing defects, chips and scratches before work is started. Take photos, nothing all possible issues.

If work is begun without notifying the owner of any of the above conditions, the installer may be responsible for the cost of repairing or possibly replacing the tub.  You want to avoid such a situation.

Make this review process a “must do” for each project.

Step 2: Notify the Owner or Builder in Writing

If any defects are found in the inspection process, the safest way to communicate this fact to the owner or builder is to always do so in writing. 

A simple email noting these conditions is sufficient and ensures that the customer doesn’t contract convenient amnesia in the future and forget what was said.

How to Protect the Tub in a Tile Remodel

Protecting the tub can be done in one of several ways. 

1. Cover the Tub with a Protective Layer

Start by damp wiping the surface to remove any construction dirt or grit. 

Allow the surface to dry and cover with a protective layer.  This could be a clean heavy-duty drop cloth or a furniture pad that conforms to the tub shape and is taped to the tub edge to keep debris from getting underneath. 

2. Use a Heavy-duty Cardboard Unit

There are also manufacturer produced options that are made specifically for this purpose.

Heavy-duty cardboard units cover the entire tub from wall to wall as well as the front face. Many times these products can be salvaged and reused on your next job. 

3. Try a Liquid Coating

Liquid coatings also offer protection from thin-set mortars and grouts. 

These products are applied either by spray, roller, or brush and are allowed to dry to provide a tough finish as shown in the photo above.  In order to protect the non-slip surface on the bottom of the tub, rub a bar of soap over these areas.  This will prevent the coating from bonding and will facilitate removal.  Once the installation is completed, the coating is simply peeled away and discarded.